Step back in time: The best castles to visit in the North East

The North East has some of the country’s most impressive castles dotting its landscapes.

Due to our region’s strategic geographical importance throughout history, we’ve got more castles than anywhere else in the UK, for a few reasons:

Defence: As a frontier region close to the Scottish border, castles were essential for controlling territory during the Middle Ages.

Feudalism: After the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, William the Conqueror and his successors built castles across the country to establish and secure their control. These castles served as strongholds for the new Norman rulers and helped enforce their authority over the local population. His son, Robert Curthose, build a wooden fortification and this ‘New Castle’ gave out city its name.

Border nobility: The North East was home to some of the most powerful noble families in medieval England, such as the Percys, Nevilles, and Umfravilles. These families built castles as symbols of their power, wealth, and influence.

Protection of trade routes: The North East was a significant region for trade, particularly in wool, coal, and salt. Castles were often built along key trade routes and rivers to protect these economic lifelines from raids and to control the flow of goods.

Prince Bishops of Durham: The Prince Bishops of Durham, who held both religious and secular power, played an important role in the history of the North East. They were responsible for defending the region and built castles to protect their territory and enforce their rule.

But enough of the history lesson….

5 of the best castles to visit in the North East

High Life North

Alnwick Castle: The Hogwarts of the North 

Alnwick, NE66 1NQ 

One of the largest inhabited castles in England, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Percy family for over 700 years. Known as “The Windsor of the North,” it’s famous for its role in many films and TV shows, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Beyond its cinematic fame, the castle boasts medieval architecture, expansive grounds, a packed events schedule and the nearby Alnwick Garden.

Where to park: The main car park is located off Denwick Lane, a short walk from the castle entrance. Parking costs £3.50 for the day.

Alnwick Castle entry fees:

  • Adults: £20.50
  • Children (5-16): £10.80
  • Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children): £55.65
  • Under 5s: Free

HLN top tip: Tickets for Alnwick Castle don’t include access to Alnwick Garden, but they are literally next door to each other and well worth visiting while you’re there. We also have a great walk around Alnwick Castle which is suitable for all ages.

High Life North

Raby Castle: One of England’s finest medieval castles 

Darlington, DL2 3AH

Raby Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress surrounded by a 200-acre deer park. Built in the 14th century, it’s one of the best-preserved castles in the country. The castle’s interiors are opulent, featuring a grand hall, a medieval kitchen, and exquisite art collections. The surrounding parkland is perfect for a relaxing stroll among herds of deer. This year Raby Castle opened ‘The Rising’ – the largest development of Raby Castle for generations, featuring a new restaurant, retail units and gorgeous gardens.

Where to park: Ample free parking is available on-site.

Raby Castle entry fees: There are various prices to access different parts of the Raby Castle Estate. Access to The Rising is free.

Castle, deer park and gardens:

  • Adults: £18.00
  • Children (4-15): £7.50
  • Family Ticket (2 adults, up to 3 children): £51.00
  • Under 4s: Free
  • Raby members: Free 

HLN top tip: Raby Castle has a packed events calendar, from stargazing suppers to seasonal events for Halloween and Christmas. Check it out to plan your visit.

High Life North

Bamburgh Castle: A coastal fortress

Bamburgh, NE69 7DF

Perched on a rocky plateau overlooking the North Sea, Bamburgh Castle offers one of the most dramatic settings of any fortress in the UK. This iconic castle has a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. Visitors can explore the grand state rooms, ancient armour, and artefacts or simply soak in the breathtaking coastal views. Well-behaved dogs are welcome.

Where to park: There’s a large car park adjacent to the castle, with a parking fee of £5.00 for the day.

Bamburgh Castle entry fees:

  • Adults: £17.00
  • Children (5-16): £8.50
  • Under 5s: Free

HLN top tip: It currently has a great exhibition running until 4th November, showcasing costumes and props from the Netflix series ‘The Last Kingdom’, which takes place in the Kingdom of Bebbanburg – now known as Bamburgh.

High Life North

Durham Castle: A World Heritage gem

Durham, DH1 3RW  

Durham Castle, along with Durham Cathedral, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a fascinating blend of Norman and later architectural styles. Originally built by the Prince Bishops of Durham to serve as both a fortress and the bishop’s residence, today, it serves as a college for Durham University. Guided tours offer insight into its historical significance and role in defending the region during the Norman Conquest. 

Where to park: Parking in Durham City can be tricky. The Prince Bishops Shopping Centre Car Park is a good option, located about a 10-minute walk from the castle. Parking fees vary depending on the duration.

Durham Castle entry fees (guided tours only):

  • Adults: £5.00
  • Concessions: £4.50
  • Children (under 16): Free

HLN top tip: Make sure you also visit Durham Cathedral, which is just a stone’s throw away. Entry is free, although there is a £5 suggested donation. 

High Life North

Warkworth Castle: The Riverside Fortress

Warkworth, NE65 0UJ 

With its towering keep and impressive curtain walls, Warkworth Castle sits majestically above the River Coquet. The castle was once home to the powerful Percy family and offers a glimpse into medieval life in the North East. The views from the top of the keep are beautiful, and the nearby Hermitage, carved out of rock by the river, is an unusual feature to see.

Where to park: There is a car park near the castle entrance, which is £3.00 for the day.

Warkworth Castle entry fees:

  • Adults: £7.70
  • Children (5-17): £4.00
  • Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £19.40
  • English Heritage Members: Free

HLN top tip: After exploring the castle, take a short walk along the river to visit the Warkworth Hermitage, it’s worth the additional effort.

User Avatar
Laura Kingston
Founder and Editor

Laura is the Founder and Editor of High Life North. She had the idea to set up an exclusively digital women’s magazine after feeling there was a gap in the market in the North East. With over 10 years of experience in marketing and PR, Laura had a very clear…

Comments

Have your say