Prior to their construction, the main gateway was the sole means of entry and egress. This opening was defended by a portcullis.[91] The gatehouse is elliptical, and its western and eastern elevations show considerable differences. The western front has three machicolations over the gate with murder holes inset.[7] The historians Oliver Creighton and Richard Higham note their "fine architectural detailing".[92] The dating of the machicolations is uncertain, but comparison with similar, dated, examples, such as those at Cooling Castle in Kent, suggests a construction period in the 14th century.[27] They cannot be original to the gate, as their positioning would have obstructed the portcullis.[64] The eastern front is less decorated and displays evidence of more substantial reconstruction.