Bowes Castle stands in the north-west corner of the Roman fort of {Lavatrae D2044}. It has a ditch to the south and west. The building of the castle was begun in 1171 and completed in 1187. It was built for King Henry II. The keep was built from stone taken from the Roman fort. The main entrance was on the first floor, which also contained the main hall and kitchen. This is a Scheduled Ancient Monument protected by law.