Bamburgh Castle

The King of Castles. A bold statement to make you may think, but you just have to look at where it is to understand, well they might actually be right. A magnificent coastal fortress, Bamburgh sits atop a granite outcrop on the North East coats in an Area of Outstanding Natural beauty.

Promotional Feature

THE KING OF CASTLES

A bold statement to make you may think, but you just have to look at where it is to understand, well they might actually be right. A magnificent coastal fortress, Bamburgh sits atop a granite outcrop on the North East coats in an Area of Outstanding Natural beauty. It is the focal point for miles, fourteen actually and offers spectacular views of the surrounding coast and countryside. 

With documented records talking about a fortress here as early as 650AD it must certainly be one of the oldest in the country. There is stonework dating from virtually every period in history from the Anglo-Saxons through to the Victorians, when First Lord Armstrong spent over 1,000,000 pounds renovating it between 1894 and 1904.

Although Bamburgh its beach and castle was attracting visitors since the late 1800’s the castle only opened its doors to visitors after the second world war. Now it attracts over 100,000 visitors every year and is open all year round. As well as the incredible views from the grounds and battlements, the castle has fourteen state rooms, an art exhibition in the stables and live archaeology during the summer months. The Victorian laundry houses The Armstrong and Aviation Artefacts Museum, giving visitors a glimpse into the incredible inventor and industrialist’s life and legacy.

The Stables gallery houses an exhibition of works by the Northumberland Artist Peter Phillips, based on his book Bamburgh – The King of Castles. There are hundreds of originals, giclee prints, cards and limited edition prints in a variety of media on sale. Within the grounds and battlements you will discover trails and activities for both children and adults alike all year round. The keeping the castle alive programme sees living history groups taking up residence in the castle, with Vikings, Anglo-Saxons and medieval royal households putting in an appearance over the year.

An ongoing relationship with the Lord Chamberlains Men sees Romeo and Juliet performed live in the Inner Ward, bring along a picnic and enjoy the show!

For full details visit the castles website. Throughout the year visitors can enjoy freshly prepared food in the cafeteria, with hot and cold snacks and meals, locally made ice cream and a selection of Northumbrian beers! The castle’s own gift shop supports many local businesses with a variety of locally sourced gifts.

For further information about the castle visit www.bamburghcastle.com