The 10 Best Castles in Northumberland for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Northumberland is often dubbed the land of castles , it boasts more castle sites than any other county in England, with over 70 fortresses recorded here.
From iconic coastal strongholds to hidden ruins tucked in quiet valleys, these castles offer a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Many are situated in dramatic landscapes that reward visitors with stunning views and scenic walks, making them perfect destinations for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re walking the Northumberland Coast Path or exploring the rolling hills inland, you’ll find a castle to captivate you along the way.
Below, in no particular order, are ten of the very best castles in Northumberland – each with its own story and spectacular setting – plus some tips for enjoying them on foot.
1. Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is arguably Northumberland’s most majestic fortress, commanding a prime position atop basalt cliffs overlooking miles of sandy beach.
This immense castle spans nine acres and is one of the largest still-inhabited castles in the country. Its stunning beachside location has made it a star of many films and TV shows, but nothing beats seeing it in person as you walk along the dunes with the castle rising ahead.
History buffs will appreciate that Bamburgh was once the seat of Northumbrian kings, while casual visitors can enjoy the well-kept grounds and on-site museum.
Practical tip: If you’re hiking the Northumberland Coast Path, you’ll pass right by Bamburgh Castle – plan time to pause and explore. The village below has cafés and pubs, perfect for a post-walk refreshment while gazing back up at the castle’s battlements.
Just North of Bamburgh there is a lovely walk, Budle Bay, you can download a free self-led walking guide for this walk from here.
2. Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle is a must-see inland castle and one of the grandest in England. In fact, it’s the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK (after Windsor Castle) and has been home to the Percy family (Dukes of Northumberland) for over 700 years.
Many will recognise Alnwick Castle from its starring roles in the Harry Potter films (it famously stood in for Hogwarts).
Beyond the pop culture fame, Alnwick impresses with its mighty medieval walls, extensive parklands, and the beautifully landscaped Alnwick Garden next door. Inside, the opulent state rooms and the castle’s art collections are open in season, offering plenty to see on a day visit.
Practical tip: Alnwick Castle is situated in the town of Alnwick, which makes it easy to access. You can stroll from the town center through pastures and along the River Aln to view the castle from different angles. Allow a full day if you also plan to enjoy the Garden or nearby Hulne Park walks.
A lovely self-led walking guide that takes in Alnwick Pastures, which overlook Alnwick Castle can be downloaded from here.
3. Dunstanburgh Castle
The ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle dominate the headland, as seen from the coastal walk near Craster.
For a walk that combines coastal beauty and evocative ruins, Dunstanburgh Castle is unbeatable.
This 14th-century castle’s dramatic remains sit on a remote headland and are accessible only by footpath, which is part of their allure.
Most visitors approach via a 1.3-mile walk from Craster village along the shoreline – an easy, relatively flat trail that rewards you with ever-closer views of the twin-towered gatehouse ruin. By the time you reach the castle, you’ll feel you’ve stepped back in time.
History comes alive as you wander the crumbling walls that once saw action during the Wars of the Roses.
Practical tip: There are no facilities at the castle aside from a small kiosk, so bring water and snacks from Craster (famous for its smoked kippers!).
The coastal views from the castle are breathtaking, especially on a windy day with waves crashing on the rocks below. This walk is popular for good reason – it’s a highlight of the Northumberland Coast Path, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Download the self-led walking guide that takes in Dunstanburgh Castle from here.
4. Warkworth Castle
Warkworth Castle is a picturesque medieval ruin with a nearly complete keep, set on a hilltop loop of the River Coquet near the coast. Once home to the powerful Percy family (before they moved to Alnwick), Warkworth is both imposing and charming.
Climb the spiral stairs of its great tower and you are rewarded with stunning views out to the North Sea and over the village below. The roofless walls and towers are fun to explore, and information panels help you imagine the castle’s rich history. For walkers, the surrounding area offers gentle strolls – you can wander down to the riverbank or even seek out the hidden Hermitage, a chapel carved into the rock across the river (accessible by a small boat in summer).
Practical tip: Warkworth Castle is managed by English Heritage, which often hosts medieval re-enactments and events on weekends. Check the schedule – it’s a treat to coincide your visit with an event and see the castle courtyard filled with archery, falconry or knights in armor. Even on a quiet day, Warkworth’s peaceful village setting makes it a lovely stop on a walking tour of the Northumberland coast.
Download a walking guide that takes in Warkworth Castle from here.
5. Lindisfarne Castle
Lindisfarne Castle might be small, but its location is nothing short of magical. Perched atop Holy Island (Lindisfarne) just off the coast, this 16th-century castle offers a unique adventure: reaching it depends on the tides. Twice each day, the causeway linking Holy Island to the mainland is submerged by the sea – meaning visitors must time their trip carefully.
Once you’ve crossed (by car or on foot during safe times), a 15-minute walk from the island village brings you up to the castle’s craggy base. Lindisfarne Castle was originally an Elizabethan fort, later transformed into an Edwardian country retreat by architect Edwin Lutyens, and today it’s managed by the National Trust.
Visitors rave about the atmosphere here – there’s a special solitude and charm, with seals often basking on the nearby rocks and wildflowers covering the dunes. From the battlements, you get panoramic views of the island and the North Sea.
Practical tip: Plan your visit around the tides, as the castle’s opening hours and access are dictated by the causeway being open. It’s wise to arrive early and explore Lindisfarne’s other attractions too (such as the ruined priory and the quaint village). If you’re on a walking holiday, consider the Pilgrim’s Path across the sands (only at very low tide and with local advice!) for a truly immersive approach to this enchanting spot.
6. Chillingham Castle
For those who prefer their castles intact (and perhaps a bit spooky), Chillingham Castle is a fascinating stop in the Northumberland countryside.
This 12th-century stronghold in the Cheviot foothills has been modified over the centuries from a medieval fortress to an Elizabethan manor and now to a lived-in castle museum. Chillingham is privately owned by the Wakefield family (descendants of the Greys who owned it since the 15th century) and is famously known for its resident herd of wild white cattle, one of the rarest animals on earth, which roam the castle’s parkland.
The castle’s interior is filled with historic artifacts, armory, and even a dungeon and torture chamber, giving it a reputation as one of Britain’s most haunted castles. But equally appealing to outdoor lovers are Chillingham’s gardens and woodland walks, which are open year-round.
Strolling through the beautifully manicured topiary garden or the shaded woods, you might catch glimpses of deer or hear the distant low of the wild cattle.
Practical tip: The castle is a bit off the beaten path (east of Wooler, signposted off the A1) so it’s best reached by car or as part of a guided tour. Plan a half-day here – during summer, you can join an evening ghost tour if you’re feeling brave. By day, pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds and take in the peaceful rural setting of this unique castle.
7. Belsay Castle and Hall
Belsay offers two historic treasures in one: a medieval castle ruin and a grand Regency mansion, set amid acres of extraordinary gardens. Visiting Belsay feels like a journey through time.
You’ll start at Belsay Hall, an early 19th-century Greek Revival style country house, then follow a magical trail through the famed Quarry Garden – a lush, fern-filled ravine of exotic plants – and suddenly stumble upon the old Belsay Castle hidden in the foliage.
The 14th-century Belsay Castle itself is a three-story pele tower (fortified manor house) with an attached Jacobean wing, now roofless but well-preserved. Climb the spiral staircase of the tower for a lovely view over the estate and gardens. For walkers, Belsay’s grounds are a delight: there are woodland paths, a pond, and a formal walled garden to explore as well.
Practical tip: Belsay is managed by English Heritage; entry gives access to the hall, castle, and gardens together. Wear sturdy shoes, as the Quarry Garden path can be slightly uneven and damp (but absolutely worth it!).
In summer, Belsay often hosts family activities and events, so it’s a great place to bring kids or enjoy a leisurely day out. Don’t forget to bring a camera – between the castle ruins draped in ivy and the vibrant garden blooms, Belsay is extremely photogenic.
8. Aydon Castle
Tucked away in the woods near the village of Corbridge lies Aydon Castle, a hidden gem that’s perfect for those who love a mix of history and nature. Despite its name, Aydon is actually a fortified 13th-century manor house rather than a military castle – but it saw its share of action during border skirmishes and was later used as a farmhouse.
Uniquely, Aydon Castle survives virtually intact, complete with its stout walls and rooms that give a real sense of medieval life. The setting is what really enchants walkers: Aydon is surrounded by secluded woodland and lies close to the winding Cor Burn. A visit isn’t complete without taking some time to wander the woods and the adjacent orchard – bluebells carpet the area in spring, and birdsong is your soundtrack year-round. You might follow the bridlepath down to the burn or even walk the mile-long trail from Corbridge town to reach the castle on foot.
Practical tip: The castle is open seasonally (summer months, generally) and has a small car park if you choose to drive. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the picnic tables by the castle orchard, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Nearby Corbridge has plenty of amenities, so Aydon makes a nice half-day excursion paired with a visit to that quaint historic village.
9. Etal Castle
Venturing to North Northumberland, Etal Castle offers a slice of Border Wars history in a charming rural setting. Built around 1341, Etal Castle was a key fortification in the conflicts between England and Scotland.
Today it stands as a picturesque ruin consisting of a robust gatehouse and parts of the curtain walls, quietly nestled in the tiny, postcard-pretty village of Etal.
What makes Etal great for an outdoor visit is not just the castle remains, but the experience around it: the site includes an informative exhibition detailing the bloody 1513 Battle of Flodden (which was fought nearby), helping you appreciate the strategic importance of this little castle. After taking in the history, you can relax in the castle’s grounds – which make a pleasant picnic spot on a sunny day.
The village of Etal itself has lovely thatched cottages and a quaint tea room, and you can walk a riverside footpath or even catch a ride on the heritage steam railway that runs to neighboring Ford village in summer.
Practical tip: Etal Castle is managed by English Heritage and can be reached by a scenic drive or bike ride; it’s about 10 miles southwest of Berwick-upon-Tweed. If you’re up for a longer walk, consider hiking the trail from Etal to the Flodden Battlefield (about 4 miles one-way) where a circular path and memorial on Piper’s Hill let you reflect on that pivotal battle.
10. Mitford Castle
Last but certainly not least is Mitford Castle, a true hidden gem tucked in the quiet countryside west of Morpeth. More ancient and rustic than others on this list, Mitford consists of ivy-clad stone fragments on a motte – yet it holds a singular distinction: the ruins include the only five-sided (pentagonal) castle keep in England.
Built in the 12th–13th century, this unique five-sided keep still stands in part to first-floor height, crowning a rocky ridge above the River Wansbeck. Visiting Mitford Castle feels like discovering a secret. There’s no ticket booth or crowds – access is via a public footpath that loops around the site (the 2-mile circular walk from Mitford village is a delightful way to see it).
You’ll pass an old church and wander through sheep pastures before arriving at the castle’s earthworks. Amidst the tumbled walls, you can clearly trace the outline of the unusual pentagonal keep, and imagine how formidable it once was.
Practical tip: Park considerately in Mitford village and follow the signed footpath; after exploring the castle ruins, the trail continues along the pretty Wansbeck riverbank.
There are no facilities here, so this is one for true adventurers – bring sturdy shoes (the hillside is uneven) and perhaps a copy of the Shepherds Walks free guide for Mitford to enrich your exploration.
The lack of crowds is part of Mitford’s charm, so you may well have this historic ruin all to yourself, with just the sound of the river and birds for company.
Download a free self-led walking guide that visits Mitford Castle from here.
Plan Your Northumberland Castle Walks with Shepherds Walks
Northumberland’s castles are not only relics of the past – they can be highlights of your walking adventures today. If you’re feeling inspired to lace up your boots and discover these sites on foot, Shepherds Walks offers a range of walking holidays, challenges, and free resources to help you on your way. Here are a few ways to turn your castle curiosity into an unforgettable journey:
- Walk the Northumberland Coast Path on a Shepherds Walks Holiday – Experience the thrill of hiking between Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and Warkworth Castle over several days. This self-guided holiday package lets you explore the entire coast path with luggage transfers and comfortable accommodations each night. Find out more here: Northumberland Coast Path – Self-Guided Walking Holiday.
- Join the Northumberland Coastal Challenge – Tackle an exhilarating long-distance challenge walk along the Northumberland coast in a single day. On the route, you’ll pass beneath Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and Warkworth Castle in one go, along with miles of spectacular shoreline. Learn about the event and how to join: Northumberland Coastal Challenge Walk.
- Download a Free Walking Guide – Dunstanburgh Castle (Walk 12) – Get a taste of Shepherds Walks’ expert route guidance with a free downloadable guide for a circular walk that takes in Dunstanburgh Castle.
It’s a moderate 7-mile route from Craster, perfect for a half-day outing to this coastal ruin.
Download here: Walk 12 – Dunstanburgh Castle (Free PDF Guide).
- Discover Mitford Castle – Free Walking Guide (Walk 19) – Explore the hidden gem of Mitford Castle with a detailed guide from Shepherds Walks.
This easy 2-mile walk unveils the only five-sided keep in England and the tranquil landscapes around it.
If you loved the sound of Mitford, this is your chance to visit with confidence.
Get the free guide: Walk 19 – Mitford Castle (Free PDF Guide).
Northumberland’s castles are waiting for you, each with their rugged stones and riveting stories. Whether you choose a guided holiday or strike out on your own with a map in hand, you’ll find that combining walking and castle-hopping is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural splendor of this region.
Happy exploring, and may your paths be filled with history and adventure!