Top 6 Castles around Cotherstone
Best castles around Cotherstone are found in a region rich with historical significance, particularly concerning medieval architecture and Roman heritage. Cotherstone itself is home to the earthwork remains of Cotherstone Castle, originally a Norman motte and bailey. The surrounding area of Teesdale features several other notable castle ruins and historical sites. These locations offer insights into the strategic importance of the landscape throughout history.
Best castles around Cotherstone
- The most popular castles is Egglestone Abbey Ruins, a religious_building that consists of the spectacular ruins of a late 12th-century Premonstratensian monastery. The site is located above the River Tees and is free to enter.
- Another must-see spot is Bowes Castle Ruins, a historical_site featuring the magnificent ruins of a 12th-century keep built by Henry II. It stands on the site of a Roman fort and is free to enter during daylight hours.
- Visitors also love Deepdale Footbridge and View of Barnard Castle, a bridge that offers a great view of Barnard Castle. This location provides a vantage point for observing the historic castle.
- Cotherstone is known for its castle ruins, historic keeps, and abbey ruins. Visitors can explore sites ranging from Norman motte and bailey remains to 12th-century stone structures and monastic ruins.
- The castles around Cotherstone are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and 17 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Bowes Castle Ruins
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Egglestone Abbey Ruins
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Deepdale Footbridge and View of Barnard Castle
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Brough Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Like so many in the region, the castle was renovated by the prolific Lady Anne Clifford in the 17th century, before falling into ruin following her death.
It is now under the protection of English Heritage and entry into its grounds is free.
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Tips from the Community
These impressive Bowes Castle ruins are free to visit. Although not much of the fort is left standing, you can visit the interior of the castle and imagine yourself back in time. The current castle dates from 1187 but was built on what was once the foundations of a Roman fortification. For more information visit: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bowes-castle/history/
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The view of the castle form here is great at any time but if you can get down early in the morning to catch the sunrise it's stunning!
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A lovely stop of to Bowes Castle, this is open and free to the public so no cost to worry about when popping in.
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The spectacular ruins of Egglestone Abbey occupy a picturesque spot above the River Tees. The crumbling ruins are all that survives of a small Premonstratensian monastery that was founded in the late 12th century. The site is owned by English Heritage and is free to enter between 10am-6pm. For more information, visit: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/egglestone-abbey/.
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Brough Castle commands a strategically important position at the foot of the Stainmore Pass. The Romans built a fort here to protect their military road across the Pennines. 1,000 years later, the Normans built a castle on the site, which was later destroyed by the Scots in 1174 and hastily rebuilt before the end of the century. Like so many in the region, the castle was renovated by the prolific Lady Anne Clifford in the 17th century, before falling into ruin following her death. It is now under the protection of English Heritage and entry into its grounds is free.
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This funny little bridge (with steps that you have to lift your bike up) is a quiet route alternative to the busy, main road that climbs up to the town centre. You also get a great view of the castle.
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The magnificent ruins of Henry II's 12th-century keep are on the site of a Roman fort guarding the approach to strategic Stainmore Pass over the Pennines. The English Heritage-owned castle is free to enter and you can visit any time during ‘reasonable daylight hours’.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cotherstone Castle?
Cotherstone Castle is a historic site in Cotherstone, primarily consisting of earthwork remains. Originally a Norman motte and bailey castle from around 1090, it was later rebuilt in stone in 1200. Today, visitors can see a prominent earth mound, traces of a probable fishpond, and fragments of masonry. Information boards explain its original layout and Norman defenses.
What other historical castle sites are near Cotherstone?
Beyond Cotherstone Castle, the area features several notable ruins. You can visit Bowes Castle Ruins, a 12th-century keep built by Henry II on a Roman fort site, and Brough Castle Ruins, also on a Roman fort site, rebuilt after being destroyed by the Scots. Additionally, the picturesque Egglestone Abbey Ruins, a late 12th-century Premonstratensian monastery, are located above the River Tees.
Are the castles around Cotherstone free to enter?
Yes, several notable castle ruins in the area offer free entry. Bowes Castle Ruins are free to enter during daylight hours. Brough Castle Ruins are under English Heritage protection and also free to enter. The spectacular Egglestone Abbey Ruins are free to enter between 10 am and 6 pm.
Where can I get a good view of Barnard Castle?
For an excellent view of Barnard Castle, head to the Deepdale Footbridge and View of Barnard Castle. This bridge provides a great vantage point, especially stunning during sunrise.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Cotherstone?
Yes, several castle sites are suitable for families. Bowes Castle Ruins, Egglestone Abbey Ruins, and Brough Castle Ruins are all categorized as family-friendly historical sites, offering open spaces to explore and learn about history.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Cotherstone offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, cycling, and running routes. For example, there are moderate hiking routes like the 'Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Cotherstone' and cycling routes such as the 'Barnard Castle Market Cross – River Tees Crossing loop from Cotherstone'. Explore more options in the Hiking around Cotherstone, Cycling around Cotherstone, and Running Trails around Cotherstone guides.
Are there hiking trails near Cotherstone's castles?
Yes, there are several hiking trails that allow you to explore the area's history and natural beauty. You can find routes like the 'Hury Reservoir Circular Trail' or the 'Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Cotherstone'. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the Hiking around Cotherstone guide.
Can I cycle near the castles around Cotherstone?
Absolutely. The region provides various cycling routes, including options like the 'Eppleby & Castle Raby loop from Barnard Castle' or the 'Barnard Castle Market Cross – River Tees Crossing loop from Cotherstone'. Discover more cycling adventures in the Cycling around Cotherstone guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Cotherstone?
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the picturesque settings of the castle ruins. Many enjoy the free entry to sites like Bowes Castle Ruins and Egglestone Abbey Ruins, allowing them to explore and imagine the past. The stunning views, such as those of Barnard Castle from the Deepdale Footbridge, are also highly rated.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Cotherstone?
The best time to visit is generally during spring and summer when the weather is more favorable for exploring the outdoor ruins and enjoying the surrounding walking and cycling routes. However, the sites are accessible year-round, with winter visits offering a different, often quieter, experience.
Are there any circular walks incorporating the castles?
While specific circular walks directly named after incorporating multiple castles aren't detailed, many routes in the area pass by or offer views of these historical sites. For instance, the 'Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Cotherstone' is a moderate hiking route that allows you to see Barnard Castle. You can find more options in the Hiking around Cotherstone guide.
What are the historical origins of Brough Castle Ruins?
Brough Castle Ruins stand on a strategically important site that was once a Roman fort. The Norman castle was built here a thousand years later, destroyed by the Scots in 1174, and then hastily rebuilt. It was later renovated by Lady Anne Clifford in the 17th century before falling into ruin.
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