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Castles
Through a history of border battles with Scotland, there are more castles in North East England than in any other English region. Some are dramatic medieval ruins, while others are sumptuously decorated family homes. All stand proud against spectacular backdrops, whether coastal or countryside, which add interest to the view. For example, the breathtaking sweep of Bamburgh beach with the castle silhouetted against it has made it one of Britain’s favourite views.
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Coastal lookouts
Poised against the sea, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh Castles are the highlight of exhilarating coastal walks and make spectacular backdrops for a picnic. Across the causeway and literally perched in the sea on Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle is only accessible twice a day when the tide is out.
Warkworth Castle, just inland on the coastal route, is one of the largest and most impressive motte and bailey fortresses in the north. Famous for its appearance in Shakespeare’s Henry IV, it makes a truly historic family day out.
Alnwick Castle has been home to the Percys, Earls and Dukes of Northumberland, since 1309. It is also in demand as a film location and Harry Potter fans may recognise it as Hogwarts.
City castles
Durham Castle is a World Heritage Site along with its neighbour Durham Cathedral. Once home to the powerful Prince Bishops, it has provided some of the stateliest student digs in the world for University College students since 1836!
Castle Keep, Newcastle
Built by Henry II between 1168 and 1178, this stone keep replaced the original ‘New Castle’ that gave the city its name - founded in 1080 by the son of William the Conqueror, which in turn was built on the site of the Roman fort Pons Aelius.
