Bamburgh Castle is not directly managed by English Heritage, but it is a member of the Historic Houses Association, which is a membership organization for independently owned historic houses and gardens in the United Kingdom. The castle is a Grade I listed building and has a rich history dating back to the Celtic Britons in the 5th century. It was the capital of the kingdom of Bernicia and has been the site of many battles and power struggles over the centuries.
The History of Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 5th century. It was originally the capital of the kingdom of Bernicia, which was one of the early medieval kingdoms of Northumbria. The castle has been the site of many battles and power struggles over the centuries, including the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War.
In the 11th century, the castle was seized by the Normans and became a royal fortress. It was later owned by various noble families, including the Earls of Northumberland and the Armstrong family. In the 19th century, the castle was purchased by the Victorian industrialist William Armstrong, who carried out extensive renovations and restorations.
Today, Bamburgh Castle is a popular tourist attraction and is open to the public for tours and events. It is a Grade I listed building, which means it is a building of exceptional interest and is considered to be of national importance.
Visiting Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is open to the public all year round, with opening hours from 10am to 5pm (winter 10am to 4pm, last admission 3pm November 1 to February 1). Tickets can be pre-booked online, and parking is available on site for £5.
The castle offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including:
- Guided tours of the historic rooms and treasures
- Exhibits on the castle’s history and legends
- Panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside
- Self-catering apartments available for rent on the grounds
- Weddings and events
The castle is also accessible for wheelchair users, although some paths have steep inclines. Dogs are allowed in the castle outdoor grounds.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the castle itself, there are several other attractions in the local area that are worth visiting:
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Lindisfarne Priory: This historic priory was founded in the 7th century and is home to the Lindisfarne Gospels, a beautifully illuminated manuscript from the 8th century.
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The Farne Islands: These islands are a haven for seabirds and seals, and offer boat tours for visitors to see the wildlife up close.
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The Northumberland Coast: The Northumberland coast is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with miles of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages.
Practical Information
Here are some additional practical details about visiting Bamburgh Castle:
- The castle is a certified Covid-secure attraction and is VisitEngland We’re Good To Go accredited.
- Tickets can be pre-booked online to avoid queues.
- Parking is available on site for £5.
- The castle is accessible for wheelchair users, although some paths have steep inclines.
- Dogs are allowed in the castle outdoor grounds.
- The castle is open all year round, with slightly reduced hours in the winter months.
Overall, Bamburgh Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re exploring the castle’s historic rooms and treasures, enjoying the panoramic views, or visiting the nearby attractions, there’s something for everyone at this iconic Northumberland landmark.
References:
– Bamburgh Castle Official Website
– Wikipedia – Bamburgh Castle
– English Heritage – Lindisfarne Priory
– English Heritage – Northumberland Coast Travel Guide
– Visit Northumberland – Bamburgh Castle