 The most likely period for its construction was the Great Anarchy period (1135–1152), when England was divided between the supporters of King Stephen and Empress Maud.It was about the time that the Manor of Towcester passed from the Crown to the St. Hiliary family.The castle would have been used as a symbol of power, been the residence of the lord of the manor's bailiff or reeve, an encampment for troops and cavalry raised during periods of hostility and offer hospitality to the lord and his retinue whilst travelling.