5 fantastic castles in the Lake District and Cumbria
Muncaster Castle - Credit: Archant
The Lake District and Cumbria are home to some the country's finest castles, here are a few thta are worth a visit.
Sizergh Castle - Credit: Linda Viney
Sizergh Castle
The Strickland family owned the site of Sizergh from 1239 until it was gifted to the National Trust in the 1950’s. The castle was initially built in the 14th century, although it has undergone extensive modification and expansion over the past 700 years.
Located just 4 miles south of Kendal, the castle is a perfect location for a day out, there are regular events all year round as well as a wild play trail and beautiful grounds and gardens to explore.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sizergh
Muncaster Castle - Credit: Archant
Wray Castle
Not quite a medieval castle, the Victorian neo-gothic building near Hawkshead is a relatively modern structure built in 1840 by James Dawson. It has hosted some famous guests in the past, Beatrix Potter is said to have spent a summer holiday here as a 16 year old.
The castle is very mush a family friendly visitor attraction these days, where kids can explore the rooms and dress up in period costume.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wray-castle
Brough Castle by Barry Marsh (creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0) via https://flic.kr/p/NYQSNB - Credit: Archant
Lowther Castle
Just off the M6, Lowther Hall was the family home of the Lowther family (who also owned nearby Askham Hall) for 800 years. The current castle was completed in 1806. The castle was used by the army during the Second World War and was left to ruin for several decades.
A partnership between the Lowther Estate and English Heritage was transformed the site into a major visitor attraction with regular walks, music events and garden tours.
Most Read
- 1 6 great woodland walks in the Peak District
- 2 9 of Yorkshire’s best bakeries
- 3 Win a 12 bottle case of mixed wines and champagne from Wharf Side Wines
- 4 Win a diamond ring worth £1,000
- 5 Win a short break at Landal Darwin Forest
- 6 5 million pound properties for sale in Derbyshire
- 7 Win a stunning brass table lamp from Opulental
- 8 Win a signed limited edition print by Fiona Odle
- 9 6 waterfall walks in Derbyshire and the Peak District
- 10 Win a watercolour painting of Gosfield by artist James Merriott
Muncaster Castle
Muncaster Castle is owned by the Pennington family, who have lived at Muncaster for at least 800 years, its location just outside the popular tourist town of Ravenglass makes it an ideal place for a day out.
You can stay in the The Coachman’s Quarters bed and breakfast within the grounds and visit the Maze and the Hawk & Owl Centre.
Brough Castle
Verterae was old Roman fort built in the 1st century to protect the Stainmore Pass, a key route through the Pennines. Brough Castle was built on that site at around 1092, but was destroyed by Scots in 1174 during the Great Revolt against Henry II.
Despite the building being just a shell of what it formerly was, it is well worth the trips for the breathtaking views of the Eden Valley.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/brough-castle
