Bishop Tunstall’s Alterations to Durham Castle, 1536–48

A previously unnoted gunloop in Durham Castle's stair tower reveals that Bishop Cuthbert Tunstall's 1536–48 alterations included defensive enhancements, challenging the perception of his building program as purely domestic. Analysis of construction records also corrects the historical timeline of antiquarian John Leland's visit to 1543, not 1538. The study examines architectural modifications—such as a first-floor gallery, stair turret, and chapel—within the context of Durham Castle's evolving roles as a fortress, bishop's palace, and later university college, while considering their significance during turbulent political and religious events like the Pilgrimage of Grace.

Pears, R. (2019). BISHOP TUNSTALL’S ALTERATIONS TO DURHAM CASTLE, 1536–48. The Antiquaries Journal, 99, 161–185. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0003581519000064