10 Underrated Castles and Ruins to Explore in Northumberland

Northumberland is a land where history seeps into the soil, where windswept coastlines and rolling hills are punctuated by castles that tell stories of kings, rebels, and border wars.

While many travellers head straight for Alnwick or Bamburgh, this northern county hides a wealth of lesser-known ruins waiting to be discovered. These places may not feature heavily in guidebooks, but their crumbling walls, lonely towers, and atmospheric settings capture the imagination in ways that polished attractions sometimes cannot.

Each ruin or castle has its own character, shaped by centuries of battles, sieges, and abandonment. Some perch dramatically on rocky cliffs, while others stand forgotten in meadows where wildflowers push through broken stone.

The air often carries a sense of mystery, as if these ruins are guarding secrets still untold. For travellers seeking adventure and authenticity, Northumberland’s hidden gems promise both.

In this guide, we’ll uncover ten underrated castles and ruins that deserve a place on your itinerary, from forgotten strongholds to hauntingly beautiful remains.

1) Edlingham Castle

Edlingham Castle rests quietly in a valley, surrounded by farmland and the soft murmur of the Edlingham Burn. Its remains may be modest compared to grander sites, but the atmosphere here is undeniably powerful.

The ruined hall house and broken tower rise against a backdrop of hills, inviting visitors to imagine the lives once lived within. The solitude is part of its charm, offering a sense of stepping into a forgotten story.

Walking through the site, you notice how nature has begun to reclaim the stone. Birds flit across the ruins, and the sound of water nearby provides a constant companion. The castle feels less like a museum and more like an open diary of medieval Northumberland.

Each broken wall whispers of skirmishes and centuries of change, yet still stands with quiet resilience. It is a place for contemplation as much as exploration.

The surrounding landscape adds to its appeal. Paths through fields and meadows encourage wandering, and the views are particularly striking in the golden light of evening.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Edlingham Castle

Q: Is Edlingham Castle free to visit?

Yes, Edlingham Castle is free to visit and open year-round, making it an affordable stop on any Northumberland trip. Visitors can explore the ruins without the need for tickets or guided tours, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Parking is available nearby, though it is limited, so planning ahead is wise.

Q: How long should I spend at Edlingham Castle?

Most visitors spend around an hour at Edlingham Castle, enough to wander the ruins and enjoy the scenery. However, photographers or history enthusiasts may linger longer to capture the atmosphere. The site pairs well with nearby walking trails, so you could easily extend your visit. The pace is entirely up to you, which is part of the charm.

Q: What makes Edlingham Castle special compared to other Northumberland castles?

Edlingham Castle stands out for its tranquility and raw atmosphere, rather than grandeur. Unlike more famous fortresses, it is rarely crowded, so you can explore at your own pace. Its valley setting and surrounding meadows give it a natural beauty that complements the ruins.

2) Mitford Castle

Perched above the River Wansbeck, Mitford Castle is one of the oldest Norman sites in Northumberland. Though much of it has crumbled, the tall motte and traces of its stone walls still command attention.

This castle once played an important role in border conflicts, yet today it feels almost forgotten. The site is wrapped in woodland, which adds both mystery and shelter from the winds.

Climbing the motte rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The remnants of the keep stand like broken teeth, jagged against the sky, telling tales of sieges long past. Mitford’s history stretches back to the 11th century, making it older than many better-known fortresses.

As you walk, the crunch of leaves underfoot and the rustle of trees remind you how nature has woven itself into the castle’s story. The setting feels both peaceful and ancient.

Exploring Mitford Castle is an exercise in imagination. Without extensive signage or reconstruction, the ruins invite you to fill in the gaps yourself.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Mitford Castle

Q: Can you walk around Mitford Castle freely?

Yes, visitors can walk around Mitford Castle without restriction, as it is an open site. The ruins are accessible and blend into the surrounding woodland paths. While there are no formal facilities, the freedom to roam adds to the authentic feel of the visit. It is worth wearing good shoes, as the ground can be uneven.

Q: Is Mitford Castle suitable for children?

Mitford Castle can be a fun and educational spot for children, but supervision is important. The uneven ground and steep motte require caution when exploring. Kids often enjoy the sense of adventure that comes with wandering through ruins. Bringing a story about knights or Norman history can help bring the place to life for younger visitors.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Mitford Castle?

Mitford Castle can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. In spring, wildflowers brighten the landscape, while autumn brings golden leaves to the woodland setting.

3) Prudhoe Castle

Prudhoe Castle is a striking mix of ruin and preservation, standing proudly above the River Tyne. Unlike some lesser-known sites, it has been partially restored, giving visitors a clearer picture of its medieval life.

Once the home of the powerful Umfraville family, it played a key role in defending the north against Scottish raids. Today, the blend of intact buildings and ruined walls makes for an engaging visit.

Walking through Prudhoe Castle, you can step inside rooms, climb stairs, and view exhibits that bring its history to life. The atmosphere is both educational and evocative, with information boards explaining its turbulent past.

The river below adds a natural drama, especially when viewed from the castle walls. The surrounding greenery softens the fortress’s edges, creating a striking contrast. Unlike isolated ruins, Prudhoe feels alive with stories.

There is also a sense of continuity here. Families picnic on the lawns, children play near the walls, and visitors learn about life across centuries. The combination of preserved architecture and ruined sections allows you to appreciate both fragility and strength.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Prudhoe Castle

Q: Do you need to pay to visit Prudhoe Castle?

Yes, Prudhoe Castle is managed by English Heritage, so there is an entry fee unless you are a member. The price includes access to the grounds, the ruins, and the exhibition areas. Tickets can usually be bought on-site or online in advance. This small cost supports the preservation of the castle for future generations.

Q: Are there facilities at Prudhoe Castle?

Prudhoe Castle has facilities including toilets, a small shop, and picnic areas. These make it more family-friendly compared to more remote ruins. While it does not have a café, visitors often bring their own food and enjoy the grounds. The site balances history with comfort, making it suitable for longer visits.

Q: Can you see the River Tyne from Prudhoe Castle?

Yes, the River Tyne is clearly visible from Prudhoe Castle, and it adds much to the setting. The castle was strategically placed to watch over the river crossing, which was vital in medieval times. Today, the views remain impressive and provide excellent photo opportunities. The connection between the castle and river enhances the sense of history.

4) Warkworth Hermitage and Ruins

Hidden in a wooded bend of the River Coquet, Warkworth Hermitage is unlike any other ruin in Northumberland. It is not a towering fortress but a chapel carved directly into the cliffside, with centuries-old walls that still echo with mystery.

To reach it, you must cross the river by boat, which adds an almost magical quality to the experience. The journey feels like entering another world, where stone and spirit blend together.

Inside, the hermitage is hauntingly beautiful. The carved altar, benches, and niches remain, weathered yet remarkably intact. Sunlight filters through openings in the rock, creating shifting patterns that dance on the stone.

The silence is striking, broken only by the rustle of leaves or the lap of water outside. It is a place that encourages reflection as much as exploration.

The nearby ruins of Warkworth Castle tie the story together, offering contrast between grandeur and solitude. While the castle buzzes with visitors, the hermitage feels secret and secluded. Together, they paint a vivid picture of medieval faith and power.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Warkworth Hermitage and Ruins

Q: How do you get to Warkworth Hermitage?

Warkworth Hermitage is only accessible by boat across the River Coquet, which makes the journey part of the adventure. Visitors usually start at Warkworth Castle, where tickets include boat passage when the hermitage is open. The crossing is short but memorable, adding to the sense of discovery.

Q: What makes Warkworth Hermitage different from other ruins?

Unlike traditional castles or towers, Warkworth Hermitage is carved into the rock rather than built above it. Its intimate chapel and chambers feel personal and spiritual, rather than defensive. The riverside setting adds both beauty and isolation, which is rare among historic sites.

Q: When is the best time to visit Warkworth Hermitage?

The hermitage is open seasonally, usually between spring and autumn, when river crossings are possible. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon provides softer light inside the stone chambers. Summer days can be busier, but the site still feels secluded compared to major castles. Planning ahead ensures you don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden treasure.

5) Etal Castle

Etal Castle lies in the quiet village of Etal, close to the River Till and the Scottish border. Although now a ruin, it once played a crucial role in the battles between England and Scotland.

Its broken towers and curtain walls still suggest strength, even as ivy creeps across the stone. Walking into the courtyard, you immediately sense the tension that must once have filled the air.

The castle is partly managed as a historic site, with an exhibition that brings its violent past to life. Here, the story of the Battle of Flodden unfolds, reminding visitors how closely Etal was tied to conflict.

The ruins themselves are atmospheric, with grassy spaces that invite wandering and quiet thought. Crows perch on the walls, their cries echoing across the empty halls. It feels as though the castle remembers every clash and cry from centuries ago.

Etal today is far more peaceful. The village is picturesque, with thatched cottages and a gentle pace that contrasts with the castle’s turbulent past.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Etal Castle

Q: What is there to see at Etal Castle?

Etal Castle includes the ruined walls, towers, and gatehouse, along with an informative exhibition. The display explains the Anglo-Scottish wars and the dramatic Battle of Flodden. Outside, the ruins are open to wander, offering a mix of grassy spaces and stonework. The combination of history and scenery creates a well-rounded experience.

Q: Can you visit Etal Castle with children?

Yes, Etal Castle is family-friendly and often appeals to children interested in knights and battles. The open grounds provide space to explore, though supervision is needed around uneven stonework. The exhibition helps younger visitors connect stories with the ruins they see outside. Bringing a picnic can make it a fun and relaxed day out.

Q: Is Etal Castle near other attractions?

Etal Castle is close to Ford Castle and the Flodden battlefield, making it easy to explore several sites in one trip. The village itself has a traditional tea room and scenic walks along the River Till. This cluster of history and natural beauty makes Etal an excellent base for a day out. Travellers often combine it with nearby Coldstream or Berwick-upon-Tweed.

6) Dunstanburgh Castle

Few ruins capture the imagination like Dunstanburgh Castle, perched on a dramatic headland above the North Sea. Built in the 14th century, its shattered towers rise starkly against the horizon.

To reach it, you must walk along the coast from the village of Craster, where the sound of waves and cry of seabirds set the mood. The approach is part of the magic, with the castle slowly revealing itself with every step.

Standing among the ruins, the scale becomes clear. The great gatehouse, though broken, still commands attention, while walls stretch across the headland in jagged lines. The wind whips across the cliffs, carrying salt spray and the scent of heather.

Legends of intrigue and rebellion cling to the stones, with whispers of plots against kings. The castle feels alive with stories waiting to be told.

The setting is as memorable as the ruins themselves. Seals can sometimes be spotted offshore, and the coastal path offers spectacular views in every direction. Sunset paints the walls in hues of gold and crimson, adding to the drama.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Dunstanburgh Castle

Q: How do you get to Dunstanburgh Castle?

Dunstanburgh Castle is reached by a coastal walk from Craster or Embleton, both offering scenic routes. The path is about a mile and a half from Craster, making it an enjoyable stroll for most visitors. Walking boots are recommended, as the ground can be muddy. The journey itself is one of the highlights of the visit.

Q: Is Dunstanburgh Castle suitable for photography?

Yes, Dunstanburgh is a dream for photographers thanks to its dramatic cliffside location. Sunrise and sunset create especially striking lighting for pictures. The contrast of sea, sky, and ruin makes every angle worth capturing. Many visitors return multiple times to photograph it in different conditions.

Q: What makes Dunstanburgh Castle unique?

Dunstanburgh stands out because of its remote and dramatic setting rather than its preservation. The walk along the Northumberland coast is inseparable from the experience of visiting the ruins. Its history of rebellion and its sheer scale add depth to its appeal.

7) Harbottle Castle

Harbottle Castle stands above the River Coquet, its ruins gazing out across the Cheviot Hills. Built by the Normans in the 12th century, it once defended the border against Scottish raids.

Today only fragments remain, but their position on the hilltop makes them striking. The walk up is short but rewarding, with sweeping views of the valley below.

The castle’s broken walls carry centuries of battles and betrayals. Standing among them, you feel the exposure to wind and weather, much like the soldiers who once guarded this frontier.

The surrounding village is small and peaceful, offering a contrast to the turbulent history. Harbottle feels less like a tourist site and more like a survivor clinging to the landscape. Its rough edges speak of authenticity rather than polish.

The setting is what makes Harbottle special. The hills stretch endlessly, dotted with sheep and crossed by winding paths. In spring and summer, wildflowers brighten the slopes, while winter brings a haunting stillness.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Harbottle Castle

Q: Is there parking near Harbottle Castle?

Yes, there is a small parking area in the village of Harbottle, a short walk from the castle ruins. The path uphill is straightforward but can be muddy after rain. Visitors should wear sensible shoes to handle the climb. The effort is rewarded with beautiful views and a peaceful setting.

Q: Can you combine Harbottle Castle with a longer walk?

Harbottle is an excellent starting point for walks into the Cheviot Hills. Many hikers link a castle visit with routes across the Coquet Valley or into Harbottle Woods. This combination makes it ideal for those who want both heritage and outdoor adventure. Maps and guides are available locally to plan a suitable route.

Q: Is Harbottle Castle open year-round?

Yes, the castle ruins are open all year as they sit on public land. Access is free and unrestricted, making it an easy addition to any itinerary. Weather conditions may affect your visit, as the site is exposed on the hilltop. Each season offers a different atmosphere, from summer warmth to winter solitude.

8) Brinkburn Priory and Manor House

Tucked away by the River Coquet, Brinkburn Priory is a hidden jewel of medieval Northumberland. Unlike stark ruins, its priory church has been restored, standing proudly amid woodland.

The ruins of the surrounding buildings and the manor house add depth, telling stories of changing faith and fortunes. The riverside location feels secluded, as though history here unfolds in whispers.

Walking through the site, you move between grandeur and decay. The priory’s stone arches soar above you, their beauty matched by the simplicity of the woodland paths outside. Birds sing from the trees, softening the silence of the ruined cloisters.

The manor house, partly restored, hints at later centuries of domestic life. Together, the buildings weave a tapestry of sacred and secular history.

The setting adds an almost timeless quality. Reflections of stone and sky shimmer in the river beside the priory. Picnics on the grass feel far removed from the rush of modern life. Brinkburn is not just about what remains but how it feels to stand among them. It is both spiritual and grounding, making it a place to linger.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Brinkburn Priory and Manor House

Q: What can you see at Brinkburn Priory?

Brinkburn Priory includes a restored priory church, the ruins of monastic buildings, and a later manor house. The church is especially impressive, with soaring arches and atmospheric acoustics. The riverside grounds offer space to walk and relax. This mix of architecture and setting makes Brinkburn a rewarding visit.

Q: Is Brinkburn Priory suitable for weddings or events?

Yes, Brinkburn Priory is often used for weddings, thanks to its beautiful church and scenic grounds. The riverside setting provides a romantic backdrop for photography. While events may limit access at certain times, the site remains popular with visitors throughout the year. Its combination of history and charm makes it a special place for gatherings.

Q: How do you reach Brinkburn Priory?

Brinkburn Priory is located near Rothbury, tucked into a wooded bend of the River Coquet. It is accessible by road, with parking provided near the entrance. The final approach involves a walk down to the riverside, adding to the sense of discovery. Signage helps guide visitors, but the secluded feel remains intact.

9) Norham Castle

Norham Castle dominates the banks of the River Tweed, its ruins sprawling across a grassy mound. Once a powerful border fortress, it was besieged many times during centuries of Anglo-Scottish conflict.

Even in ruin, its scale is impressive, with crumbling towers that hint at its former might. The river setting adds both beauty and strategic importance.

Wandering through Norham, you can trace the outlines of halls, chapels, and walls. The great keep still looms, though weathered by time and storms. The castle’s turbulent history is easy to imagine here, as the river was both lifeline and battleground.

The open site allows you to explore freely, without barriers or crowds. It feels raw and real, as though the past is just under the surface.

Today, the atmosphere is more peaceful. Families picnic in the grass, fishermen cast lines in the river, and walkers pause to take in the views.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Norham Castle

Q: Is Norham Castle free to visit?

Yes, Norham Castle is free to enter, as it is managed as an open site by English Heritage. This makes it accessible for casual visitors and families alike. Donations are encouraged to help with upkeep. The lack of barriers gives a sense of freedom not always found at larger castles.

Q: What role did Norham Castle play in history?

Norham was a key fortress in the centuries-long wars between England and Scotland. It was besieged repeatedly and witnessed some of the fiercest border conflicts. Its position by the River Tweed made it strategically vital. Even in ruin, the castle still reflects its turbulent past.

Q: Can you see the River Tweed from Norham Castle?

Yes, the River Tweed flows directly below the castle, creating a picturesque setting. The river’s presence explains much of the site’s history, as it marked a natural boundary. Visitors often enjoy combining a castle visit with riverside walks. The view of water and ruins together makes for excellent photographs.

10) Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

Belsay offers something unique: a medieval castle, a grand hall, and expansive gardens all in one place. The castle’s keep and ruined rooms speak of Norman strength, while the later hall adds Georgian elegance.

Walking between them, you pass through quarry gardens carved into the rock, which feel almost otherworldly. This combination makes Belsay one of the most varied heritage sites in Northumberland.

Inside the castle, you can climb the tower for views across the countryside. The ruins are atmospheric, with empty fireplaces and broken staircases that still suggest life once lived.

The hall, in contrast, feels polished and formal, showcasing later architectural ambition. Together, they highlight the evolution of power and taste across centuries. The gardens, lush and dramatic, tie it all together.

Exploring Belsay is a full-day experience. Paths wind through exotic plants and shaded walks, leading back to the ruins and hall. Each area has its own mood, from the quiet strength of the castle to the refined grandeur of the hall.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

Q: What makes Belsay unique compared to other sites?

Belsay stands out for combining a medieval castle, a Georgian hall, and remarkable gardens. Few sites offer such variety within one visit. The quarry garden in particular is unlike anything else in Northumberland, with dramatic rock walls and exotic planting. This blend of eras and landscapes makes it exceptional.

Q: How long should I plan to spend at Belsay Hall and Castle?

Most visitors spend half a day to a full day exploring the site. The castle, hall, and gardens each deserve time, especially in good weather. Families often bring picnics and use the grounds as a base for relaxation. The scale and variety of attractions mean there is always something new to discover.

Q: Are there facilities at Belsay?

Yes, Belsay has a café, shop, and toilets, making it more comfortable than remote ruins. The facilities help families and larger groups enjoy longer visits. Seasonal events and activities also take place, adding to its appeal. These amenities balance modern comfort with historic exploration.

Northumberland is blessed with castles, but it is in the quiet corners and half-forgotten ruins that its history feels most alive.

Exploring these underrated sites allows travellers to step off the beaten path and connect with the past in a more personal way.

Whether it is the dramatic cliffside of Dunstanburgh, the riverside solitude of Warkworth Hermitage, or the layered history of Belsay, each location tells a story worth hearing. Together they reveal not just battles and power, but also faith, community, and resilience.

Visiting these castles and ruins is about more than sightseeing. It is about walking through landscapes where history and nature meet, where silence can speak as loudly as stone. Each ruin holds a fragment of Northumberland’s identity, waiting for curious travellers to uncover it.

By seeking out these hidden gems, you gain not only photographs but also memories and insights that linger long after your journey ends. So when you plan your next adventure, let Northumberland’s underrated castles lead you into the heart of its past.

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