I saw this photo of Hylton Castle and got to wondering...when this castle was in its prime, was the grass closer to that in the foreground or in the background?

At the moment, lawns look nice and keep insects away, but how were they kept during the 800-1200s? Was there so much commotion that horses would just trample the grass to a dirt lawn? Or would the be more like a swept dirt lawn, which seems easiest?

I suppose this would somewhat be determined by whether the building was ceremonial or militaristic in nature, but I'm interested in what's currently known. Any thoughts?

Thanks!