Perhaps better enlarged

The tower, built originally by Robert de Ros II in about 1200, was used throughout its existence as a solar - a private great chamber that provided intimate accommodation for the castle's owners, away from the adjacent chamber block.

When first built, it comprised a basement with two floors above, providing views over the extensive parkland to the west and south, and continues to do so today from ground floor windows. In the 14th century the tower was heightened, another floor being added. A third floor was added in the 16th century, and at the same time new windows and fireplaces were inserted.