History
The castle was founded by Ranulf le Meschin at the beginning of the 12th century. In about 1170 the square stone keep known as Caesar's Tower was built. The castle was in Royal hands when the Scottish King, William the Lion, invaded the Eden Valley in 1174. The constable of the castle surrendered without a fight.
In 1203 the castle was granted to Robert de Vieuxpont by King John. In 1269 it came into the possession of Roger de Clifford and it remained in the ownership of the Clifford family for nearly 400 years. In the mid-17th century, Lady Anne Clifford made the castle her home and she was responsible for the restoration of the castle. On her death the castle passed to the Earls of Thanet. They were responsible for converting the hall block into a classical mansion house. The upper parts of Caesar's tower were altered in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The north wall of house and the west part of north wing with the round tower date from the 13th century. The eastern part of the house was built in 1454. The house was partly dismantled in 1648 and was restored by Lady Anne Clifford in 1651–53. The house was largely rebuilt in 1686 and the north-west wing was added in 1695. In the 19th century it was again restored and sash windows were inserted.
In 1972 the castle was purchased by Ferguson Industrial Holdings (FIH PLC) and become the primary residence of Denis Vernon the CEO of the company, and his family. The Vernons lived at Appleby Castle until 1990. During this period, Denis Vernon, a passionate conservationist established a Rare Breeds Survival Centre. Considerable improvements were made to the fabric of all the buildings, not least the 12th century Keep. During this period as the Head Quarters and Training Centre of FIH PLC, and for those running the Conservation Centre, meant that there was a thriving community. Documentary and Movie Director Susannah White featured Denis Vernon and Appleby Castle in her BBC documentary on the Gypsy Horse Fair Held Annually in Appleby.
Appleby Castle is now a private residence and is not open to the public.
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