In 1370 Feb 9, Johnnes de Chidiok, miles (John Chideock; John Chidioke) was granted, by Edward III, (In year 44 of his reign) a Royal licence to crenellate Chidiok (Chideock Castle)

"manerium de Chidiok, super costeram maris situatum"

Granted at Westminster, by privy seal.

This licence was ratified in 1380.

Original source is

• Calendar of Patent Rolls (1367-70) p371

(In fact, the original source given is usually a transcription/translation of what are precious medieval documents not readily availably. It should be noted that these transcription/translations often date to the nineteenth or early twentieth centuries and that unwitting bias of transcribers may affect the translation. Care should also be taken to avoid giving modern meaning to the medieval use of certain stock words and terms. Licentia is best translated as 'freedom to' not 'permission'.)

Significant later source are;

• Emery, Anthony, 2006, Greater Medieval Houses Vol3 (Cambridge) p695
  King, D.J.C., 1983, Castellarium Anglicanum (London: Kraus) Vol1 p131n2
  Turner, T.H. and Parker, J.H., 1859, Some account of Domestic Architecture in England (Oxford) Vol3 pt2 p417

Sir John de Chidiok (c. 1348-1390)

Sir John de Chidiok (c. 1348-1390), M.P. for Dorset 1369. No suggestion of royal service.

More details about licences to crenellate can be found here.

Please let me know if you see any errors, can add information or can otherwise help to improve this resource. Contact me