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Peveril Castle (also known as Castleton Castle or Peak Castle) is a ruined early medieval castle overlooking the village of Castleton in the Derbyshire Peak District. Built in 1086 and mentioned in the Domesday survey, it is one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses; the keep was added by Henry II in 1174.

The castle was sited on a high hill overlooking the Hope Valley to control the area with its hunting grounds and lead and silver mines. William Peveril, after whom the castle was later named, was keeper of the royal forest. The town of Castleton grew up beneath the castle from the twelfth century onwards.

Peveril Castle remained in use up to and during the 15th century but was neglected and fell into disrepair in the 16th century. By the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, it was so ruinous that its demolition was considered. Its popularity was only revived centuries later when visitors to the Peak District were drawn by its historical associations and the beauty of its ruin in the picturesque landscape and, in particular, by the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s historical novel “Peveril of the Peak” (although it was not actually set in the castle).

In 1932, the castle was placed in the guardianship of the Office of Works and, in 1984, it passed to English Heritage. It is open to visitors at advertised times (Link English Heritage information for visitors to Peveril castle)

The castle remains (walls and keep) are Grade I-listed (English Heritage Building ID: 82553 Link British Listed Buildings).

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