Castle Hewin
Has been described as a Rejected Masonry Castle
There are no visible remains
Name | Castle Hewin |
Alternative Names | Castle Hewen; Castle Luen; Castellewyn; Castlehewings; Castle Lewen |
Historic Country | Cumberland |
Modern Authority | Cumbria |
1974 Authority | Cumbria |
Civil Parish | Hesket |
The foundations of Castle Hewin in 1794 were in places 8 ft. thick, and one building was 233 ft. x 147 ft. It was situated on the top of a ridge adjoining Aiketgate, and there were outer defences and long extended trenches. (Hutchinson)
Leyland (circ. 1533) refers to the ruined Castle Hewen, which was probably a Mediaeval stronghold. The site has been ploughed out and the only trace is a depression near the summit. (Graham)
Excavated in 1978-9 by Tom Clare, the only finds were Romano-British. An interim report in typescript is in Carlisle Library (Perriam and Robinson). (PastScape)
On the crown of a lofty eminence, towards the north east of the lake, and adjoining Aiket-gate, are the remains of a very strong building, which has consisted of several apartments, strengthened with out-works, and long extended trenches.
The dimensions of the building are 233 feet, by 147; besides a smaller one at one corner, 49 feet square. The foundations still appear, faced with large stoncs of Ashler work; in some places eight feet in thickness. At what time this fortress was erected, or to whom it belonged, we find few traces in ancient authors. It is called, by the neighbouring inhabitants, Castle Hewin, and the neighbouring tenants pay to the Lord of the manor, a yearly rent, which is called Castle Hewin rent. Tradition reports it to have been one of the fortresses and strong holds of King Ewaine. (Hutchinson 1794)
Not scheduled
Not Listed
Historic England (PastScape) Defra or Monument number(s)
County Historic Environment Record
OS Map Grid Reference | NY485462 |
Latitude | 54.8086395263672 |
Longitude | -2.80215001106262 |
Eastings | 348540 |
Northings | 546270 |