Castle Park Heritage Part 6: Visitors to the Castle

In 1131, King Henry I summoned his daughter, Empress Matilda, to return to England, following which a Council of the Nobility of England was held in Northampton, recognising Empress Matilda as Henry l's heir.

Following Henry l's death, Stephen of Blois, Empress Matilda's cousin, seized the throne. As Empress Matilda was recognised as the heir, this sparked a rivalry amongst the cousins and a civil war broke out.

Simon De Senlis II played an important role during this time fighting for King Stephen of England in 1141 at the Battle of Lincoln. As he stayed loyal to Stephen, Simon II was given back his title as Earl of Northampton.

Stephen fell ill at Northampton in 1142, and rumours spread that he had passed away. However, these rumours were later proven false as Stephen recovered and travelled north to rally support, attempting to convince those in the area to side with him.

In 1146, the Earl of Chester arrived at Northampton Castle and requested that Stephen meet him in person to offer help against the Welsh. Suspecting a trap, Stephen had the Earl thrown into the castle's dungeons instead.

Simon II passed away in 1153 and was buried at St. Andrews Priory. His son, Simon III, inherited the Earldom title and became the new Earl of Northampton.

In 1154, Stephen died, and the throne passed to Henry II, the son of Empress Matilda. King Henry ll's reign began, marking a new chapter in English history.

Henry II convened a great council at Northampton Castle in 1157, further solidifying his power and influence in the realm.

Last updated 17 October 2025