The North East's Mightiest Castles
Play king and queen at one of the region's coolest castles
Raby Castle
Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family, Raby Castle has a long history as the scene of the plotting of the Rising of the North and was a Parliamentary stronghold during the Civil War. As well as discovering more about its fascinating history inside the castle, visitors can explore the 200-acre deer park where red and fallow deer roam, the Walled Gardens (newly remodelled by renowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei with Lady Barnard), and (until 31st August) a fabulous new floral display and accompanying garden-inspired events. Various events take place here throughout the year, including outdoor cinema, cookery masterclasses and wellness workshops.
Staindrop DL2 3AH
01833 660888
raby.co.uk
Alnwick Castle
Potterheads love Alnwick Castle, where Harry Potter first soared on his broomstick. One of the largest inhabited castles in the UK, it has been home to the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for more than 700 years. Once a military outpost, it’s also been a teaching college and a refuge for evacuees, and today it plays host to unique events, talks and tours. This summer, don’t miss historic falconry displays, outdoor cinema and theatre, and the return of historical troupe of performers, the Silly History Boys.
Alnwick NE66 1NQ
01665 511100
alnwickcastle.com
Lindisfarne Castle
Cross the causeway to Holy Island and discover this majestic castle – one of the most iconic landmarks in our region. A former Tudor fort, the castle became an Edwardian holiday home much altered by Sir Edward Lutyens, and the preserved furnished rooms pay homage to his work. Outside, take a stroll in the castle’s garden designed by Gertrude Jekyll, and look out for seals as you walk around the headland (but keep a close eye on the tide timetable so you don’t get stuck).
Holy Island, Berwick D15 2SH
01289 389244
nationaltrust.org.uk
Warkworth Castle
Once the residence of the powerful Percy family, this mighty fortress-palace now has listening posts, colour-coding, and five different routes that lead you into every corner to learn all about its past. Each trail ends with a sculpture, linking the character it depicts to key events. Join the audio tour, and on selected days a riverside walk and a ferry take you to a tiny rock-cut chapel. This summer there’ll be knights tournaments and falconry displays taking place too.
Castle Terrace, Warkworth NE65 0UJ
01665 711423
english-heritage.org.uk
Auckland Palace
Bishop Auckland’s alive with history, nature, art and good food. Come and walk in the footsteps of the original ‘Kings of the North’ – the Prince Bishops of Durham. One of the best-preserved Bishop’s palaces in Europe, visitors can discover almost 1,000 years of history here. A remarkable symbol of faith and power, marvel at the Georgian Gothic splendour of the Throne Room, visit the former apartments of the Bishops of Durham and explore the Long Dining Room which is home to Jacob and His Twelve Sons painted by Francisco de Zurbarán, which inspired the nearby Spanish Gallery. While the Palace’s Deer Park is perfect for a stroll, don’t miss your chance to visit the award-winning Walled Garden, Paradise Garden and Wilderness Garden.
Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR
aucklandproject.org
Bamburgh Castle
This iconic castle has stood guard above the Northumberland coastline for more than 1,400 years and, as you might expect, there are many fascinating stories and legends to find here. It was transformed in the 19th century by local innovator Lord Armstrong, and visitors today can see his unique collection of artwork, ceramics and objets d’art. Weapons are on display in the 12th-century keep, and in the grounds you can find cannons and the ruins of St Peter’s Chapel. Once you’ve soaked up all that history, no visit is complete without a stroll on Bamburgh beach. This summer, children will love exploring the new indoor sculpture trail inspired by familiar sayings hidden throughout the Castle’s rooms.
Bamburgh NE69 7DF
01668 214208
bamburghcastle.com
