The castle motte dates from 1068 and was built with three sides protected by the River Severn. The stone walls date from the 12th to 13th centuries. There was originally a keep on the motte but it collapsed in 1270. The castle was allowed to decay from the middle of the 14th century and even though it was re-fortified during the Civil War it was captured by Parliament. It was then restored in the 18th century by Thomas Telford and used as a residence. Laura's Tower (left) was erected on the motte at the same time.