Castles in Northumberland

Lindisfarne Castle

Situated on the beautiful Holy Island of Lindesfarne. The castle sits atop a base of solid whinstone rock making it a small but striking sight. Because of its location it was very vulnerable to attack. The Vikings from the sea and the Scots from the north. It was eventually strengthened using the stone from the original Lindesfarne Priory which had become disused. In 1901 it was refurbished including the walled garden which was designed by Gertrude Jekyell. Lindesfarne Castle is always worth a visit when on the island. It also provides a beautiful view from the upper battery towards Bamburgh and across the island. Information from the National Trust can be found here. Website

Dunstanburgh Castle

Built on the site of an Iron Age fort, Dunstanburgh took advantage of a position on the Northumberland coast. It was the largest castle built in Northumberland covering an area of almost 10 acres. During The War of the Roses, it was a strategic northern stronghold and changed hands between Yorkists and Lancastrians numerous times. As the Scottish border became more stable, its importance diminished and the damage from the various sieges was never repaired. Hence the condition of the structure today. It is a very popular destination for visitors to the small harbour village of Craster. It is a lovely 1.25 mile walk along the coast. Dunstanburgh is now owned by the National Trust and run by English Heritage. This is on a Site of Special Scientific Interest for birds and amphibians. Website

Chillingham Castle

Originally a monastery, Chillingham then became a strategic location in the conflict between England and Scotland. Serving as a staging point for English soldiers heading north but was also repeatedly attacked by the Scots. Over the centuries the castles military significance declined and it was gradually transformed into its current state. Now owned by Sir Humphrey Wakefield, the castle has been painstakingly restored and sections are open to the public. There is also the added attraction of The Chillingham Cattle which is a small herd of extremely rare breed cattle.

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle is one of the most important in Northumberland. It was once considered to be the capital of the kingdom of this area and first mentioned in writing in 420AD. The original structure was destroyed in 993 by the Vikings and then rebuilt on the same site by the Normans. This section forms the core of the castle today. When purchased by William Armstrong the Victorian industrialist it was restored to its current state. Bamburgh Castle is open to the public and is one of North Northumberlands major attractions. There are stunning views of the Northumberland coast from the walls with tours of the various rooms inside. The castle has a small war museum with a history of Lord Armstrong. His progression from industrialist to design and manufacture of ordinance used in both world wars. His country house of Cragside is also a major attraction for this area.  Website

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle has had a turbulent history. Even being ordered to be demolished by King John in 2012. The Percy family bought the Barony of Alnwick and have owned the castle ever since.

Alnwick Castle is a must when visiting Northumberland and has something for everyone. The history and the size of the structure is considerable. The castle houses many attractions such as a museum for the North Northumberland Fusiliers. Also an exhibition of the Dukes interests in archaeology. The state rooms are magnificent. Just walking around the grounds gives an impression of how it must have been to live there.

There are of course attractions for all the family. Some of which revolves around the early Harry Potter films which were filmed there. Many of the exterior shots were done there. Also the Alwick Gardens, the construction of which has been overseen by the Duchess herself are not to be missed. The cascade in the centre is a truly stunning sight. Alnwick Castle WebsiteAlnwick Garden Website

Warkworth Castle

First documented in 1157, Warkworth Castle is another excellent example of a castle built in Northumberland. It was primarily to defend against Scotland and was originally considered feeble as it was made of wood. It was improved over the years to the imposing structure seen today. Once again owned by the Percy family, they refurbished the castle and restored the keep in the 19th century. It has since passed stewardship to English Heritage who now care for the site. Warkworth Castle is now one of Northumberlands Scheduled Ancient Monuments. Website