Norham Castle - Norham, Northumberland (EH)
Built in the 12th century by the Bishop of Durham, Hugh de Puiset, this massive castle stands on a site of great natural strength. The previous castle on the site had been built during Stephen's troubled reign around 1121 but had been destroyed by the invading Scots. Built in the 1160s to guard against further Scottish attacks, Norham ironically saw its first action in 1173-4, when Bishop Hugh collaborated with the Scots under William 'the Lion' and joined the rebellion against Henry II. Norham passed into the Crown's hands when King William was unexpectedly captured at Alnwick castle.
In June 1291 Edward I came to Norham as the Scottish overlord to make a judgement on the succession to the throne of Scotland. This lawsuit, which came to be known as the ‘Great Cause’ in the eighteenth century, began in August 1291. Of the thirteen candidates making a claim to the Scottish throne, the two most serious were John Balliol and Robert Bruce (d1295). The final decision of the court on 17 November 1292 went in favour of John Balliol and it was here at Norham that Balliol swore fealty to Edward. There followed 35 years of war between the Kings of England and Robert Bruce, the future King of Scotland.
It withstood repeated attacks in the 13th and 14th centuries during the Scottish Wars and was thought to be impregnable. In 1513, however, it was stormed by the forces of James IV and partially destroyed. Although later rebuilt, the castle lost its importance as a defensive stronghold by the end of the 16th century.
The castle is located 8 miles south west of Berwick another important strategic site during the Scottish Wars.