1082–1499: Norman & Medieval
Norman Times
Following the Norman Conquest in the late 11th century, William the Conqueror's son, Robert Curthose, constructed a motte and bailey castle above the River in 1080. The present stone-built Castle was erected by King Henry II almost a hundred years later.
The Middle Ages
No longer Monkchester, the town became known as Newcastle although it remained little more than a defensive outpost against the Scots. Some trade in coal and wool took place, but not until the Walls were built during the 13th and 14th centuries did the town begin to flourish.