Nestled onto the same peninsula of land overlooking the leafy River Wear as is Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle was one of the first fortified castles built by William the Conqueror during his ferocious "Harrying of the North". Begun in 1072 as a part of William's plan to pacify the north of his new realm, the castle is an excellent early example of the Norman "motte and bailey" style of fortification. During the Middle Ages the castle served as a centre of power to counter the threat from the Scots. In 1837 the castle changed hands once more, becoming part of the new University of Durham where it now serves as a residence for students and dons.
