This could easily be a reference to today - or the 13th century where the notable history of Middleham, in North Yorkshire, began. As one of Yorkshire’s proudest centres for horse-racing in the whole county, Middleham has been affiliated with the sport since the 1700s and has produced more than 400 winners.
However, it was construction of Middleham Castle that we see today that really shaped the town’s history. That began in the late 12th century, thanks to the same cousin of William the Conqueror, and eventually the castle was acquired by the Neville family and Earls of Westmorland. Henry IV stayed here as did Edward IV.