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by Steph Boal / Day Out Guides
Step into a world of medieval grandeur and timeless tales as we embark on journey through captivating Northumberland castles.
Famed for it’s breath-taking countryside and idyllic coastline, the county of Northumberland is also renowned for the majestic tapestry of castles woven throughout.
From dramatic coastal castles, imposing countryside ruins and opulent residences, uncover a wealth of history and rich heritage at these Northumberland castles.
Read on to discover 9 ‘draw’- dropping Northumberland castles…
Northumberland has over 70 castles, with something for everyone to explore!
From castles towering over the coast and ruins set in the countryside to dramatic, fully restored castles dominating quaint towns; Northumberland is irrefutably the county of the castle.
Bamburgh Castle is the oldest castle in Northumberland. With roots dating all the way back to 547AD when Ida the Flamebearer began building the original stronghold.
However, the core of Bamburgh Castle as we know it today was not erected until 1095. Making Bamburgh Castle over 900 years old.
Dunstanburgh Castle resting on the coast is the largest castle in Northumberland.
These impressive ruins, which enclose nearly 10 acres, still dominate the coastline and its imposing stature make it easy to see imagine this castle in all of its former glory.
Continue reading our blog to learn about this Northumberland castle.
Up first on our guide to the best Northumberland Castles is Alnwick Castle. Arguably the most famous of all the impressive structures on our list, this castle lies in the heart of Alnwick.
With over 950 years of history, there is plenty to discover on a visit to this castle in Northumberland. You can even learn about Alnwick’s history with the Percy family who have lived in the castle for over 700 years and continue to do so today!
Film lovers will also be in their element as the the castle has been the filming location for feature films like Harry Potter, Transformers, and Elizabeth.
Eagle eyed fans will also recognise Alnwick Castle as a Downton Abbey filming location! As it’s impressive exterior features as Brancaster Castle, the home of Marquess of Hexham, in the show.
Postcode: NE66 1NQ
Parking: NE66 ING, charge payable by contactless card payment only
Book Tickets: Alnwick Castle Website
Book a cottage near Alnwick Castle today…
Nurse’s Cottages (Ref. 1122198) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Alnwick, Northumberland
The Old Sweet Shop (Ref. 1022774) | 8 guests, 4 bedrooms | dog-friendly | Alnwick, Northumberland
Laburnum Cottage (Ref. 1108990) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Alnwick, Northumberland
The Old Watchtower (Ref. 1122073) | 2 guests, 1 bedroom | No pets | Alnmouth, Northumberland
Bamburgh Castle is another of the best Northumberland Castles. Boasting a truly spectacular location overlooking the coast, this castle is one of the UK’s most magical!
Dominating the skyline as you drive into the village, Bamburgh Castle sits on a basalt crag at 150 feet with a vantage over the coast and countryside and spans an impressive 9 acres.
Its position has undoubtedly contributed to the castle’s longevity as Bamburgh has stood guard over Northumberland for 1400 years! Making it the oldest of the Northumberland castles.
Time your visit right to experience some of the exciting events that the castle houses. Enroll the kids in Uhtreds school of warriors, watch your favourite film at the castle’s outdoor cinema or browse a range of exhibitions.
Postcode: NE69 7DF
Parking: On-site parking, £4, NE69 7DF
Book Tickets: Bamburgh Castle Tickets
Book a cottage near Bamburgh Castle today…
Dryden Cottage (Ref. 1121957) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Bamburgh, Northumberland
Northrawe (Ref. 1122199) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Bamburgh, Northumberland
Bundle Granary (Ref. 1122135) | 8 guests, 4 bedrooms |2 dogs | Bamburgh, Northumberland
Sand Dune Cottage (Ref 1122216) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Bamburgh, Northumberland
Surrounded by breath-taking countryside, Chillingham Castle is up next in our guide to the best Northumberland Castles. Dating back to the 12th century Chillingham is a must-visit!
Stop off in the Armoury to inspect the broad display of weapons, explore the dungeon home to a trap door and tour Great Hall adorned with décor, paying homage to the Elizabethan chamber.
For the brave among you, this castle in Northumberland is one of the UK’s spookiest locations. Join the ghost tour and hunts to experience a large collection of ghouls!
Postcode: NE66 5NJ
Parking: NE66 5NJ, free parking available
Book Tickets: Tickets can only be purchased on arrival at admissions.
Book a cottage near Chillingham Castle today…
Gamekeepers Cottage (Ref. 968196) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Chillingham, Northumberland
Bridge End Bothy (Ref. 1049868) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 1 dog | Wooler, Northumberland
The Hideaway at Hollyoak (Ref. 1051012) | 2 guests, 1 bedroom | 2 dogs | Belford, Northumberland
Compass Cottage (Ref. 1112902) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | 1 dog | Wooler, Northumberland
As the largest of all of the Northumberland Castles, we couldn’t forget Dunstanburgh Castle in our guide! These spectacular ruins are perched on a remote headland in Dunstan close to Embleton.
Managed by English Heritage, this magical castle in Northumberland can be reached via the idyllic Northumberland Coast Path which offers unrivalled views across the sea.
Enjoy a leisurley stroll around the ruins which date back to to the 14th century. Highlights of the ruins include the twin-towered keep which is the most intact part of the castle and the legend of Sir Guy the Seeker, which is closely associated with the castle!
Postcode: NE66 3TT
Parking: Parking available in Craster, NE66 3TS, pay and display, coin operated machines.
Book Tickets: Dunstanburgh Castle Tickets
Book a cottage near Dunstanburgh Castle today…
Woolley Lodge (Ref. 1074336) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 1 dog | Wooler, Northumberland
Adderstone Cottage (Ref. 1122281) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Bamburgh, Northumberland
The Mistal (Ref. 958281) | 5 guests, 3 bedrooms |3 dogs | Glanton near Alnwick, Northumberland
Towering over the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is another of the best castles in Northumberland. Lindisfarne Castle was the former holiday home of a wealthy Edwardian looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London.
Today, this Northumberland castle is one of the main attractions on the Island and one of the best castles in England! Marvel at breath-taking views from stained glass windows before immersing yourself in soundscape installation.
Reach the top of the castle, the upper battery, which housed canons and offers vistas of the sea and the mainland!
After exploring the castle head to Lindisfarne priory to experience more of the past. Alternatively, while away the day on the Island’s beaches, which are some of the best beaches in Northumberland!
Postcode: TD15 2SH
Parking: Holy Island, Main Island Car Park, pay and display car park.
Book Tickets: Lindisfarne Castle Tickets
Tide Times: Holy Island Safe Crossing Times
Book a cottage near Holy Island today…
Curlew Cottage (Ref. 1056704) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | No pets | Holy Island, Northumberland
St Cuthbert’s Cottage (Ref. 918954) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Beal near Holy Island, Northumberland
Whistlewood (Ref. 1121943) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Bamburgh, Northumberland
Another of the best Northumberland Castles is Norham Castle! Resting on the banks of the River Tweed, this castle has a vivid and war filled history.
Due to its position on the border, this Northumberland castle was frequently attacked by the Scots; making it one of the most important stronghold in Northumberland.
Today, history lovers can step back in time when exploring these magnificent ruins after grabbing guide books which are available at The Mason’s Arms in the village.
Postcode: TD15 2JY
Parking: TD15 3JY, parking on-site
Book Tickets: No tickets necessary, free entry
Book a cottage near Norham Castle…
Stable Cottage (Ref. 1017392) | 2 guests, 1 bedroom | No pets | Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland
Victoria Cottage (Ref. 958109) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Norham, Northumberland
46 Castle Street (Ref. 1100941) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 1 dog | Norham, Northumberland
8 Pedwell Way (Ref. 1107190) | 2 guests, 1 bedroom | 2 dogs | Norham, Northumberland
Resting close to the River Tyne is Prudhoe Castle a Grade I listed building with roots all the way back to the 11th century. It is best known for being the only Northumberland castle to resist the Scots!
Offering a fun day out for all with endless nooks and crannies to explore; it’s easy to see why Prudhoe has made our guide to the best Northumberland Castles.
There is even a designated picnic area in Pele Yard where you and your family can enjoy well-earned refreshments with the impressive castle as a backdrop.
Some of the castle’s highlights include the 12th century keep, the gatehouse chapel with original oriel windows and the Gothic revival house nestled between the inner and outer baileys.
Postcode: NE42 6NA
Parking: NE42 6NA, free parking approximately 70 metres from entrance.
Book Tickets: Prudhoe Castle Tickets
Book a cottage near Prudhoe Castle today…
Prudhoe Cottage (Ref. 1127912) | 10 guests, 5 bedrooms | 1 dog | Prudhoe, Northumberland
195 Durham Road (Ref. 1123920) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Leadgate in Consett, Northumberland
The Smithy (Ref. 1020562) | 9 guests, 5 bedrooms | No pets | Ponteland, Northumberland
The Old Exchange (Ref. 6415) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | No pets | Corbridge, Northumberland
The penultimate entry on our guide to the best Northumberland Castles is Thirlwall Castle! These dramatic ruins lie close to Cumbria on the edge of Northumberland National Park.
This castle in Northumberland was built in the 12th century and further strengthened using the sandstone blocks from the nearby Hadrian’s Wall. Roam the ruins that have fallen to the mercy of nature and admire the structure that kept the Thirlwall family safe for generations!
After exploring this Northumberland Castle join the Hadrian’s wall path, which stretches an impressive 84 miles! Uncover a range of Roman forts, museums and turrets painting a vibrant picture of Roman history.
Postcode: Thirlwall Castle, CA8 7HL
Parking: CA8 7HL
Book Tickets: No tickets necessary, free to visit.
Book a cottage near Thirlwall Castle today…
4 Alpha Rise (Ref. 950789) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Gilsland, Northumberland
The Hayloft (Ref. 941220) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Milton, Cumbria
1 Alpha Rise (Ref. 937869) | 7 guests, 4 bedrooms | No pets | Gilsland, Northumberland
Talkin End Cottages 5 (Ref. 1082579) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Talkin near Brampton, Northumberland
Standing majestically on a hilltop overlooking the River Croquet in Warkworth is Warkworth Castle; the last entry on our guide to the best Northumberland castles!
This spectacular castle was built in a Mot and Bailey style and is adorned with stone Percy lions symbolising the Percy family that once lived here. Shakespeare fans will also be familiar with the castle as it is the setting for scenes in Henry VI part 1 and 2.
Spend the whole day uncovering the castle’s secrets before wandering down to Warkworth beach to admire stunning views across the North Sea.
You can also head half a mile along the River Coquet to a landing stage where you will rowed across to Warkworth Hermitage. This hidden gem is carved into the side of a cliff and was once the home to hermits/priests paid to pray in the chapel.
Postcode: NE65 0UJ
Parking: NE65 0UJ, parking for 48 spaces with additional parking in the village. Parking is free for English Heritage members.
Book Tickets: Warkworth Castle Tickets
Book a cottage near Warworth Castle today…
Estuary View (Ref. 952283) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | 2 dogs | Warkworth, Northumberland
Castle View (Ref. 1121947) | 5 guests, 3 bedrooms | 1 dog | Warkworth, Northumberland
Coach House (Ref. 1122072) | 4 guests, 2 bedrooms | No pets | Alnmouth, Northumberland
Estaury View (Ref. 1122099) | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms | No pets | Alnmouth, Northumberland
Feeling inspired to visit these breath-taking castles? Book your getaway to a Northumberland cottage today! For more inspiration on what to do on your trip check out our Northumberland travel guide.
by Steph Boal / Day Out Guides
Hi, I'm Steph and I joined the Sykes team in 2022. I grew up in the North East of England so unsurprisingly I love exploring the w...
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