CASTLES NORTHUMBERLAND

Etal Castle is a ruined medieval fortress in Northumberland, built around 1341 by Robert Manners to defend against Scottish raids. The castle comprises a four-storey residential tower, gatehouse, and corner tower protected by a curtain wall. The well-preserved tower house features rooms for storage, a kitchen with a large fireplace, a hall, and a private solar. Positioned in the Border country between England and Scotland, Etal was involved in local feuding and the border wars, famously falling to James IV's invading Scots in 1513 just before their defeat at Flodden. Today managed by English Heritage, the castle remains an important example of medieval defensive architecture in northern England.

Chipchase Castle is a 13th-century fortress set amid expansive grounds in Northumberland, with rolling terrain and woodlands leading to the North Tyne river. This atmospheric medieval castle surrounded by historic character offers diverse experiences for visitors and occasion hosts. The estate features premium salmon and sea trout fly fishing on the Tyne waters, serves as an evocative filming and photography location, and accommodates weddings within its historically significant walls. Visitor access is carefully managed during the season, with castle tours available Wednesday through Sunday in summer, creating an intimate setting where guests can experience medieval ambiance within a genuinely historic environment.

Featherstone Castle is a Grade I listed Gothic country mansion set on the banks of the River South Tyne near Haltwhistle in Northumberland. Originally featuring a 13th-century tower within a sprawling hall house, the castle was significantly expanded in the 17th century and now comprises four towers flanking a central courtyard. With roots dating to the 11th century when the Featherstonehaugh family held the manor, it later served strategic roles during English-Scottish conflicts. Today converted into a residential conference and activity centre, the castle remains an imposing landmark of medieval and later architectural heritage.