History

Ripley Castle has been home of the Ingilby family for the last seven hundred years. The history is one of political, military, religious and social turbulence, of plague and persecution, of renaissance, enlightenment and industrial revolution. It is a tale of romance, courage, loyalty and recklessness. There is no final chapter because the Ingilby family are still there, still enjoying the adventure.

Henry Ingilby collected taxes for Edward III and helped the king to finance the construction of Windsor Castle. His brother Thomas saved the king's life and was knighted for his courage.

Sir William held high office and served Henry VIII, Mary Tudor and Elizabeth I through some of their darkest days. Two of his sons toured the countryside inspiring rebellion: they were 'the most dangerous papists in the North of England'. The Blessed Francis Ingilby paid the ultimate price: he was executed in 1586.

James I stayed at the castle in 1603. By 1605 the Ingilbys were plotting to kill him: nine of the eleven known conspirators of the Gunpowder Plot were close relations or associates.

'Trooper' Jane Ingilby held Oliver Cromwell prisoner overnight in the castle's Library. Sir John Ingilby rebuilt the castle but lost his wife. His son, a notable and colourful eccentric, rebuilt Ripley and endowed it with a huge Hotel de Ville.

If you want more information about the Ingilby’s extraordinary tale,
go to www.ripleycastle.co.uk