The honey-coloured stone of Belsay Castle in the Northumbrian countryside pictured reflecting the light of this afternoon's early spring sunshine.
Association with the Middleton family who were first referenced in connection with Belsay in 1270.
Work on the castle, which began as a substantial pele tower with turrets and battlements, began in 1370, reflecting a time when the area of the English and Scottish borders were often in conflict.
When James VI of Scotland united the crowns of England and Scotland In the early 17th century the lands became more peaceful, less fortified extensions were added, as seen to the left of the original stronghold.
The Grade I listed building, located a few miles north of Ponteland, is now in the care of English Heritage.
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