about

Although referred to as a castle, Weoley was a mediaval manor house, once surrounded by a wide, water filled moat. The building dates from 1270s when the Lords of Dudley, Roger de Somery were given permission by the King to build and fortify their castle in stone. Because it is located in a valley, the building did not have a keep or the defensive position required by a castle. However, the Dudley barony enjoyed into a great construction with private rooms for the lords and ladies, a kitchen with a large fireplace for cooking, an impressive great hall, towers and an imposing gatehouse. The family had their own chapel and stable range with lodging rooms above. There are no to many information about the social life at the Weoley Castle. It was eventually owned by Joan de Botetourt who inherited by marriage and used Weoley as her main residence and home. After her death the castle changed hands numerous times in legal dispute over inheritance. By 1485 it was in the ownership of William Be...