References to a manor house at the castle site in Cottingham date to as early as the 1170s; in 1200 William de Stuteville entertained King John I in Cottingham, receiving permission for a market and to strengthen the castle at Cottingham; in 1201 a licence to fortify was issued to enclose and fortify the site.
The early history of Cottingham's castle is marked by references to a manor house on the grounds dating back to the 1170s. In 1200, William de Stuteville hosted King John I and received permission for a market and fortification work. A year later, a license was granted to strengthen the site.