Old Wardour Castle was built at the end of the 14th century for John, the 5th Lord Lovel. It was built at a time when large, baronial houses were being constructed across the country, with more emphasis on style and comfort than on defence. The hexagonal structure was probably influenced by contemporary French design. The Lovel's supported the Lancastrian cause in the War of the Roses and as a result had their estates confiscated when Edward of York defeated the Lancastrians and became king in 1461.