by Patricia Watson

Created on: November 24, 2011   Last Updated: November 28, 2011

Located not far from the charming village of Bamburgh, on the west coast of north east England, in the county of Northumbria, Bamburgh Castle sits high above the beach on a craggy rock.  A visit to this magnificent castle, in its nine acres of land, not only provides insight into the building’s long history but also an opportunity to meander around its interesting rooms and grounds.

Parts of the Grade 1 listed building date back to Norman times although it is believed the site once housed an Anglo Saxon fortress. In 1095 Bamburgh castle became the property of the English monarch Henry ll who is believed to have built the existing Keep. During its lifetime the castle has witnessed the coming and goings of many dignitaries, has been attacked by the Scottish and was a significant artillery base during the War of the Roses. In 1894 the castle was bought by William Armstrong who restored the building to its current glory and has passed it down to his family ever since.

Steeped in history this former home of  royalty, and now the Armstrong family, not only offers a glimpse into the lives of its previous and current residents but it also offers the opportunity to explore the many public rooms that house over 2000 artefacts.

 Walking through the rooms the visitor will find many items of interest and gain a sense of the luxury enjoyed by its former residents. A meander through the Kings Hall, with its beautiful teak beamed ceiling, provides insight into the grand balls and banquets that were once held at the Castle. Moving onto the 1164 Keep, with its three metres thick walls, the visitor will see displays of ancient weapons and armour. For the energetic there is the opportunity to climb the steps to the top of the Keep which provides breathtaking views. The Armstrong and Aviation museum is located in the West Ward and displays items belonging to Lord William Armstrong who was an inventor and engineer. The museum also houses many relics from the two world wars, including a fighter plane that was recovered from the grounds.  Also located in the castle are a fully equipped medieval kitchen and a rather scary dungeon.

The castle grounds has many places of interest including the eighteenth century windmill, twelfth century gate house, and the battlements which provide stunning views of Lindisfarne on the Holy Island, Farne Island and the Cheviot hills. The visitor might look and catch a glimpse of puffins and other sea birds flying above the castle or nesting in the cliff rocks.

The castle has wheelchair access to most areas and it provides a gift shop and café found in the Clock Tower. There is also a play dig area for the children and an archaeological site.  Audio tour guides and leaflets are available and assistants are situated throughout the rooms to answer questions.

The castle is open throughout the year and tickets are eight pound fifty for adults and four pounds for children. Family tickets are available and children under five years are admitted free.

This castle is certainly worth a visit, as is the nearby village and beach.

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