Clifton Castle

Clifton Castle was built in the 14th century by the Scrope family. It was demolished in the 18th century, other than foundations in the cellars of the current house, and a single piece of wall.^[1][2]

The estate was purchased in 1735 from the Preston family by Timothy Hutton of Marske, who demolished the castle and commissioned John Foss to build the present Grecian style house in 1802. On Hutton's death without heirs in 1863 the Clifton estate passed to his barrister cousin James Pulleine. His only daughter Georgina married Major-General Sir John Clayton Cowell, Master of the Queen's Household.^[3] Sir John died in 1894 and his widow continued to live at the house. Their son Albert Victor succeeded them. At some point in the late 19th century, the windows were replaced, and the rear left wing was extended by four bays.^[4]

The estate was then purchased around 1970 by the 8th Marquess of Downshire and passed down to his son, Nick, 9th Marquess of Downshire,^[5] who lives there with his family Janey, Isabella, Beatrice, Edmund and Claudia.^[6]

The house was Grade II* listed in 1952.^[4] It has extensive grounds, including woods with bridges, follies and cascades, woods and recently-planted wildflower meadows. The grounds are occasionally open to the public through the National Gardens Scheme, and the house is also open for occasional tours.^[7]