Richmond Castle, perched above the River Swale in North Yorkshire, represents the finest surviving example of an early Norman castle in England. Most likely founded in the late 1070s by Count Alan Rufus of Penthièvre and expanded by his great-nephew Conan during the 12th century, the castle retains more 11th-century architecture than any other in the nation. Its remarkable keep, added in the 1170s and standing over 30 metres high, offers panoramic views across the historic market town of Richmond from its roof, while legends associate the castle with King Arthur and his knights sleeping beneath the structure.
