Bamburgh Castle, located in Northumberland, England, is reputed to be Lancelot’s fortress Joyous Guard, as mentioned in the Vulgate Cycle (1215) and Sir Thomas Malory’s Le Morte Darthur (1469-1470). The castle’s story is deeply rooted in the legend of King Arthur, with Lancelot playing a significant role in its history.
The Legend of Bamburgh Castle and King Arthur
Bamburgh Castle’s original name was Din Guayrdi, a Celtic-British place-name meaning “Bamburgh”. It was a dangerous and enchanted place where passing knights were obliged to fight two sets of ten knights at the two gates. According to the legend, Lancelot, after defeating the mystical knights and releasing all the prisoners, had to stay at the castle for forty consecutive nights to free the residents completely from their enchantment. He eventually descended into a cave beneath the castle, where he defeated a huge monster and won the keys to unlock the enchantment from a damsel dressed in copper.
Bamburgh Castle was a significant stronghold for the Bernician and Northumbrian Royal family, becoming one of their major strongholds. The castle’s story is closely associated with King Arthur, as it was identified with Joyous Gard by Thomas Malory, who personally participated in the Yorkist siege of the castle during the War of the Roses.
Visiting Bamburgh Castle
If you’re planning to visit Bamburgh Castle, here are the key details you should know:
Address and Contact Information
- Address: Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh, Northumberland, NE69 7DF, England
- Phone: +44 1668 214515
Opening Hours
- April to October: 10 AM – 5 PM
- November to March: 11 AM – 4 PM
Admission Fees
- Adult: £10.95
- Child (5-15 years): £5.00
- Family (2 adults and up to 3 children): £27.50
Parking
- Free parking is available for visitors.
Exploring the Legendary Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the legends of King Arthur and Lancelot. As you explore the castle, you can imagine the battles and enchantments that took place within its walls. The castle’s impressive architecture and stunning coastal location make it a truly remarkable place to visit.
The Castle’s History
Bamburgh Castle has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 6th century when it was the seat of the Kings of Northumbria. Over the centuries, the castle has been besieged, captured, and rebuilt, but it has remained a significant landmark in the region.
Architectural Features
The castle’s impressive architecture includes a keep, curtain walls, and a gatehouse, all of which have been carefully preserved and restored over the years. Visitors can explore the castle’s various rooms and chambers, including the impressive Great Hall and the castle’s chapel.
Coastal Location
Bamburgh Castle’s stunning coastal location is another key feature of the site. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the castle offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding Northumberland coastline. Visitors can enjoy the castle’s gardens and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Conclusion
Bamburgh Castle is a truly remarkable place, with a rich history and deep connections to the legends of King Arthur and Lancelot. Whether you’re a fan of Arthurian legend or simply enjoy exploring historic sites, a visit to Bamburgh Castle is sure to be a memorable experience.