CASTLES PENRITH

Lowther Castle & Gardens offers a unique blend of history and family entertainment on a historic estate in Penrith, Cumbria, where the same family has resided for 850 years. The dramatic ruins of a 19th-century mansion demolished in 1957 provide a picturesque backdrop, while the grounds feature multiple themed gardens including a Rose Garden with David Austin roses and extensive woodland walks. The castle grounds host The Lost Castle, described as the country's largest wooden play structure, featuring turrets, tunnels, drop slides, and zip wires alongside exhibition spaces showcasing The Story of Lowther. Additional amenities include cycle hire, estate trails, a café serving freshly-made food using local ingredients, and facilities for families. Open daily 10am–5pm in summer and 10am–4pm in winter, with tickets priced at £14 for adults and family passes available.

Penrith Castle, known as the Castle of the Kings, features striking sandstone remains situated in Castle Park on the southern edge of Penrith in Cumbria. Built at the end of the 14th century by Ralph Neville to defend against Scottish incursions, the castle was later transformed into a luxurious residence by Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who became Richard III. The castle walls survive to their full height and are accessed via a wooden footbridge spanning the moat, with free admission maintained by English Heritage and extended hours during summer months from the surrounding parkland.

Hutton in the Forest is a spectacular historic estate on the northern edge of the Lake District in Cumbria, England, featuring a manor house whose foundations date back at least 250 years before the family's acquisition in 1605. The property showcases unusual and beautiful architecture shaped by successive generations, complemented by distinctive gardens and woodland areas. Visitors can explore the historic house on select days (Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays), enjoy the gardens and woodland walks daily, and visit the Cloisters Tearoom. Entry fees are £14 for house and garden or £9.63 for gardens only (adults; children under 16 free). The estate regularly hosts seasonal events including plant fairs, classic car shows, and an annual Apple Day celebration.

Brougham Castle occupies a strategic position on the River Eamont near Penrith, Cumbria, built by Robert de Vieuxpoint in the early 13th century atop the remains of a Roman fort. During the Anglo-Scottish Wars beginning in 1296, the castle evolved into a crucial military stronghold with wooden defences replaced by substantial stone walls and a gatehouse that impressed even Edward I. The poet William Wordsworth cherished visits to this romantic ruin during his childhood, drawn to its picturesque setting in the Lake District landscape. Today managed by English Heritage, the castle's remains reflect centuries of medieval conflict and evolving military architecture.

Greystoke Castle stands on the north-eastern edge of the Lake District near Penrith, representing nearly a thousand years of continuous history and architectural evolution. The first stone structure was established in 1129 by Ivo, grandson of Saxon chieftain Llyulph, and the castle grew into a crucial border fortification. William de Greystoke obtained royal licence to castellate the property in 1338, while the impressive 14th-century fortification was later enhanced with Victorian architectural renewal. Today under the stewardship of the Howard family, the castle offers visitors serene grounds featuring a tranquil Castle Lake populated by resident peacocks. Visitors enjoy afternoon tea in the castle drawing room, casual meals at The Moody Mare outdoor horsebox, and hearty dining at The Butler's Pantry while exploring England's layered historical heritage.

Kirkoswald Castle is a medieval fortress in Cumbria built from locally quarried red sandstone. Originally licensed to crenellate by King John in 1201, the castle was destroyed and rebuilt during Scottish raids in the 14th century before being expanded significantly in 1485 with the addition of a moat. Following dismantlement between 1610 and 1688, a single monumental tower remains standing some 60 feet high. The castle site, located on farmland with visible moat traces, can be accessed via a nearby public footpath, though the dangerous ruins require caution when viewing.