IMAGES TAKEN NEAR TO
East Witton Road, LEYBURN, DL8 4PT

See http://www.bench-marks.org.uk/bm44855 for details of missing gatepost at far side of road

The view east from the top of the keep. Best known as one of the childhood homes of Richard III, Middleham Castle is a ruined castle in Middleham in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire. It was built in rubble stone and ashlar, building work commencing in 1190 with additions and alterations until the 15th century. The castle was built to defend the road from Richmond to Skipton. The castle is a compact, massive structure, and though ruinous, most of the walls are intact. A simple rectangle in plan, the castle consists of a massive Norman keep surrounded by a later curtain wall, to which were then added extensive, palatial residential ranges. The castle fell into disuse and disrepair during the 17th century, and the stones of the castle became a public quarry. Now in the care of English Heritage. Listed, grade I with details at: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1318543 A Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1010629

One of several pubs still existing in this tiny town, where plenty of thirsty stable lads live.

The minor road from Wensley joins the A6108 near the Black Bull. For a view of the sign Image

The colour black is a very common colour as far as pub names are concerned occurring in at least fifty different names. It has been suggested that some 'black' names came about when the Gin Act of 1736 came into force, causing tavern owners to drape their signs in black velvet or add 'black' to the pub name. Perhaps in view of this colour's association with mourning and other rather dreary states of mind, it is surprising that so many names make use of it.