What is recorded here

Fotheringhay castle rose beside the River Nene as a Norman stronghold, later becoming a royal palace and prison where Mary Queen of Scots lost her life in 1587. Its steep motte still stands seven metres high, flattened where a stone keep once caught the wind, while ditches and bailey earthworks mark the boundaries of chambers, chapels and gatehouses. The place turned from residence to cage without losing grandeur, fitting a woman who refused to be diminished even in captivity.

The National Heritage List for England records Fotheringhay motte and bailey castle as a scheduled monument. The saved point comes from the centre supplied by the official record. Listing does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.

Built by the de Fotheringhay family in the late 11th or early 12th century, Fotheringhay motte and bailey castle is remembered for its historical association with the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1587.

The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.