In the base of each tower is a chamber, both the north and south towers have the original steps by which visitors may descend. The north tower is by far the better tower with much of the medieval details still in place, especially in the basement. Originally vaulted, it was destroyed when the floors above collapsed through into the basement area.

 

North tower stairs to the basement

Capital detail in north tower.

During World War II, much work was done in and around the towers and barracks were created for the men stationed here as lookouts and in gun emplacements. Floors were put in the towers and these may be viewed, but all of the east tower is still locked away from public view and there is a metal plate bearing the inscription '1939-1945' over the basement doorway.

 

In the north tower basement, parts of the original vaulting can still be seen along with some of the capitals at the foot of the vaulting. The one shown above is in the best condition still showing the medieval scrollwork as though carved yesterday. The upper north tower is reached by a wooden stairway and gives superb views over the surrounding countryside. (see photo on main page)

 

The upper north tower with its arrow slit windows in good condition.

 

In the centre of the floor is the last remaining relic of World War II which would have taken the gun that was stationed here. All around is the dressed stone of the tower walls, somewhat eroded and weed covered. On some of the walls can be seen holes that would have taken the stair supports to the upper floors, the wood itself long since gone.

View from the north tower looking north east with the curtain wall running along to the east tower.

 

Looking to the south from here you can see the Martello Towers, a line of Napoleonic gun-forts built to defend Britain against possible French invasions.

 

 

 

 

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