Cool Castles to Visit in the North East
The North East is a treasure trove for history buffs and nowhere is more impressive than the region's mightiest castles and forts
Raby Castle
One of Britain’s finest examples of a medieval castle, Raby was built in the 14th century by the formidable Neville family. Playing a prominent role in the Rising of the North, the castle was home to Cecily Neville (mother to two English kings) and was a stronghold for Parliament during the Civil War. Inside, visitors will discover an impressive mix of medieval, Regency and Victorian influences, and the surrounding 200 acres of deer park and gardens are well worth exploring. Raby’s new development, The Rising, is an ambitious project which includes opportunities for shopping, dining, and a remodelled 18th century walled garden.
Staindrop DL2 3AH
01833 660202
raby.co.uk
Alnwick Castle
One of the largest inhabited castles in the UK, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for more than 700 years. Its use has varied over the centuries, serving as a military outpost, a teaching college, a refuge for evacuees, and, of course, a family home. Today it plays host to outdoor theatre shows alongside many more unique events. The castle has also featured in a number of iconic films and most famously stood in for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two Harry Potter films. Inside the castle you can see an outstanding collection of paintings and furniture by important 17th, 18th and 19th century artists and craftsmen.
Alnwick NE66 1NQ
01665 511100
alnwickcastle.com
Newcastle Castle
In the heart of the city, this Norman fortress serves as a rugged reminder of the North’s turbulent past. Explore the ancient passageways and chambers, discover the hidden stories of the castle’s inhabitants over the centuries, and take a journey up to the roof for the most breathtaking views of the city. There are also plenty of different talks and tours organised over the summer so keep an eye on their website for details.
The Black Gate, Castle Garth NE1 1RQ
0191 230 6300
newcastlecastle.co.uk
Lindisfarne Castle
A fairytale castle perched on top of an impressive crag, take a well-timed journey across the causeway to find this fascinating castle. A former Tudor fort, the castle became an Edwardian holiday home designed by Sir Edward Lutyens, and the preserved furnished rooms pay homage to his work. A stone’s throw away, Lindisfarne Priory has stood resolute for nearly 1,400 years. Find out all about the Viking raids, the life of St Cuthbert and the Lindisfarne Gospels in the Lindisfarne Priory museum, home to a collection of historic artefacts highlighting the island’s role as one of the most important centres of early English Christianity. You can also take in the incredible sea views from this iconic spot, take a walk around the rest of the island and visit the gardens designed by Gertrude Jekyll (but keep a close eye on the tide timetable so you don’t get stuck).
Holy Island, Berwick TD15 2SH
01289 389244
nationaltrust.org.uk
Auckland Palace
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, check out the former apartments of the Bishops of Durham and explore the Long Dining Room which is home to 13 life-sized figures (Jacob and His Twelve Sons) painted by Francisco de Zurbarán, which inspired the nearby Spanish Gallery. While the castle’s deer park is perfect for a stroll, don’t miss your chance to visit the Walled Garden (with accompanying glasshouse), Faith Garden and Wilderness Garden.
Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR
aucklandproject.org
Chillingham Castle
Tucked away in the heart of Northumberland, this Grade I*-listed castle is most famous for its ghostly residents, with a reputation as Britain’s most haunted castle. The castle’s majestic rooms, gardens, lakes, fountains and tearoom mean it’s the perfect day out for all the family, and the evening ghost tours will keep ghoul hunters happy by night. A treasure trove of fascinating artefacts, the castle’s architectural details and walls have remained largely unchanged. Marvel at the Great Hall, see the impressive weapons in the Armoury and find fascinating family memorabilia and furnishings in The Plaque Room Library, before taking a stroll in the beautifully-kept gardens.
Chillingham NE66 5NJ
01668 215359
chillingham-castle.com
Bamburgh Castle
An imposing and impressive fortress perched on the Northumberland coast, this iconic castle has 300 years of fascinating history to discover. Back in Anglo-Saxon times it’s believed that it was one of the most important places in all England, and as you’d expect of a site which has had a settlement on it since 10,000 BC, there are so many fascinating stories and legends to find here. Transformed in the 19th century by famous local innovator Lord Armstrong, Bamburgh Castle now houses his unique collection of artwork, ceramics and objets d’art. Although you can spend the whole day exploring Bamburgh Castle, make sure you leave a little time for a stroll along the beach below.
Bamburgh NE69 7DF
01668 214208
bamburghcastle.com
Warkworth Castle
Perched high above the picturesque village of Warkworth, in its heyday in the 15th century this castle was an impressive Baronial fortress-palace. Now in partial ruins, it remains a fascinating site to explore. Cross the grass moat into the castle grounds and discover what life was like for its medieval inhabitants. Five separate routes take you through every hidden corner here, and listening posts can be found throughout, narrating the castle’s fascinating history.
Castle Terrace, Warkworth NE65 0UJ
01665 711423
english-heritage.org.uk
Dunstanburgh Castle
A spectacular ruin on a rugged Northumbrian headland, Dunstanburgh is a commanding presence. Begun in 1313 by Earl Thomas of Lancaster (cousin and enemy of King Edward II), and the wealthiest nobleman in England at the time, the imposing structure was a physical manifestation of his rivalry with the Crown. Earl Thomas was later executed for his role in the barons’ rebellion against Edward II and allegedly he only ever visited Dunstanburgh once, but the castle was extensively modernised in the 1380s under John of Gaunt. It played a role as a Lancastrian stronghold in the Wars of the Roses and was used for protection against Scottish raiders, but fell in to disrepair in the late 15th century. Only reachable by foot from Craster to the south or from Embleton Bay to the north, with towered walls, sheer drops and an abundance of local wildlife (seabirds nest on the cliffs throughout spring and summer), Dunstanburgh Castle is a true Northern gem.
Dunstanburgh Road, Craster, Alnwick NE66 3TW
english-heritage.org.uk
