Overview: The current incarnation of the castle was built in 1153 AD, and used as a shell keep.It played a part in two historical events - housing West Country barons while they were on their way to fight King John in Runnymead, before the Magna Carta was signed, and, perhaps more well known, for the incarceration of Edward II, who was deposed by his Queen, Isabella, and her lover Roger Mortimer.The King was tortured, and died an agonising death.His screams, according to legend, can still be heard each year on the anniversary of his passing.