Lincoln Castle is an unusual Norman castle with two mottes built during the late 11th century by William the Conqueror on the site of a pre-existing Roman fortress.
In order to project his influence northwards, William constructed a number of major castles in the North and Midlands of England. When he reached Lincoln, he found a Viking commercial and trading centre with a population of 6,000 to 8,000 and the remains of a Roman walled fortress in an ideal strategic position to construct a new castle. Work on the new fortification was completed in 1068.
The castle was the focus of attention during the First and Second Battles of Lincoln, when two buildings were added: the Lucy Tower and the barbican onto the west and east gates.
Later, the castle was used as a prison and a Governor’s House, both now Grade II heritage listed buildings.