One of the earliest written records establishes that it was in the possession of Richard de Alford in the early 13th century and, after his death in 1213, of the family of John de Aderne who likely married de Alford's daughter Margaret. Archaeological findings show that it was rebuilt in stone as a shell keep castle in the 13th century. The purpose of the castle appears to have been as a defensive fortification against the hostile Welsh tribes.
An early written account shows that Richard de Alford possessed it in the early 13th century, and after his death in 1213, it passed to John de Aderne's family, who likely married Margaret, de Alford's daughter. Archaeological findings indicate that a stone shell keep castle was built during this period. The primary function of the castle appears to have been as a defensive structure against Welsh tribes.