8 must-see Northumberland castles

British castles have survived centuries of battles and invasions. They see visits from royalty and nobility, but are also places of work and family homes. Castles hold this rich heritage within their walls, keeping it safe for us and future generations to discover. As the last English county before the Scottish border, the beautiful landscape of Northumberland is overflowing with castles waiting for you to explore. We’ve selected 8 must-see Northumberland castles to help you plan your holiday to this scenic county.

1. Alnwick Castle

Of all the castles in Northumberland, Alnwick is the one that will seem instantly familiar. And that’s because it is! It was used as a location for Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. The castle now runs special Harry Potter themed events such as character days and broomstick training, which are great fun for children. Its rich history is tied in with the Percy family, who have used the castle as the family seat for 700 years. The castle is open from March to October. A family ticket for the castle costs £37, but you can save 10% by booking online.

2. Warkworth Castle

Warkworth Castle is now an English Heritage property, but it was once home to the very same Percy family who now reside in Alnwick Castle! As Earls and Dukes of Northumberland, the Percy family were among the greatest landowners in England. The castle was once an impressive fortress and you can take an audio tour through the remains of the fine property. Nearby, accessible only by boat, are the remains of a chapel known as the hermitage. This unusual property sits on the bank of the river Coquet and was carved out of the cliff rock. The whole property is free to English Heritage members but it is also very reasonable to non-members. You can see the castle only for as little as £13 for the whole family.

3. Bamburgh Castle

One of the largest inhabited castles in the country, Bamburgh perches on nine acres of rocky land on the Northumberland coastline. It was rebuilt and fortified in 1131, but by the time it was bought in 1894 by a Victorian inventor it was in serious need of repair. The family restored it to the true splendour you can visit today for the price of £24 for a family ticket.

4. Chillingham Castle

Chillingham Castle has one of the darkest histories out of all the castles on this list. Built in the 12th century, it was often besieged and played important parts in many large battles. The Earl Greys have owned the castle since 1246, and built the castle’s most gruesome secret, the dungeons and torture chambers! However, the Grey family later saw to beautiful landscape refinements by Capability Brown, which turn the castle into the stunning property which has lasted centuries. The standard ticket for an adult is £9.

5. Dunstanburgh Castle

This impressive ruined castle perches on a striking coastal setting. North of Alnwick, the castle ruin dominates the beautiful Northumberland coastline. This English Heritage site is free to members, or £4.20 for adults and £2.50 for children. There are no public toilets on site, but it is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.

6. Aydon Castle

Set in the beautiful Northumberland woodland is Aydon Castle. This fortified manor house was built in the 13th century, and has been kept in spectacular condition. It is also worth visiting the nearby quaint village of Corbridge, where you can find more Northumberland heritage and unusual boutique shops. Admission is very reasonable at £4 for adults, £2.40 for children and free for English Heritage members. 

7. Lindisfarne Castle

Lindisfarne is a 16th century castle with a fascinating history. In Edwardian times it was turned, perhaps surprisingly, into a comfortable holiday home! Many of the original features did survive, and outside the castle you can take a gorgeous stroll about the enchanting walled garden. Planning is required to visit Lindisfarne, which sits on Holy Island, as it is accessible only by one causeway which is covered twice a day by the North Sea. Driving is the easiest way to visit, and you can check times to cross the causeway online. A family ticket costs £16.25, while National Trust members get in for free. 

8. Houseteads Roman Fort

Perhaps a bit of a cheat on a list of castles, but the Houseteads Roman Fort at Hadrian’s wall has enough heritage to earn its place here! Take the whole family to wander the 2000 year old ruins of the Roman barracks, and learn more about the history of the site in the fascinating museum. Admission is free to English Heritage members, £6.20 for adutls and £3.70 for children. 

Offering a glimpse into the history of the United Kingdom, Northumberland’s castles also provide a great family day out with variety of fun activities everyone will be sure to enjoy. Try camping near one of these castles and use it as a base for exploring this scenic county.