Top 20 Castles in Cumbria

Several castles in Cumbria offer great experiences for families. Lowther Castle features one of the UK's largest adventure playgrounds, 'The Lost Castle,' along with cycling trails. Wray Castle, a National Trust site on Windermere, has extensive grounds for exploration. Muncaster Castle offers an adventure playground, an enchanted fairy trail, and a Hawk & Owl Centre. Carlisle Castle, while historic, also houses Cumbria's Museum of Military Life, which can engage older children.

For history buffs, Carlisle Castle is a must-visit, with its long history of conflict, including the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots, and its remarkably preserved keep. Sizergh Castle, home to the Strickland family for over 750 years, showcases medieval and Tudor architecture. Kendal Castle, though largely in ruins, was once a stronghold for the Barons of Kendal and owned by Katherine Parr. Brougham Castle, a 13th-century ruin, offers secret passages and spiral staircases.

Yes, many castles are set within beautiful landscapes. Sizergh Castle and Gardens is renowned for its extensive gardens, including a rock garden and apple orchard. Muncaster Castle boasts 77-acre grounds with Himalayan gardens and bluebell woods. Lowther Castle features beautifully restored 17th-century gardens. Wray Castle is situated on the shores of Windermere, offering scenic lakeside trails.

The region around Cumbria's castles is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For example, there are many easy hikes in Cumbria, including routes around Tarn Hows. For those seeking more adventure, there are also waterfall hikes and general hiking trails throughout the region. Lowther Castle offers bike hire for exploring its parkland, and Wray Castle serves as a base for cycling along the west side of Windermere.

Penrith Castle is noted as being wheelchair accessible. While many historic sites may have limitations due to their age, modern facilities at places like Lowther Castle often include accessible paths and amenities. It's always advisable to check specific accessibility details with each castle directly before your visit.

The best time to visit Cumbria's castles generally depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) offers blooming gardens, such as the bluebell woods at Muncaster Castle, and milder weather for exploring grounds. Summer (June-August) provides the warmest weather and full access to all attractions and outdoor activities. Autumn (September-October) brings beautiful fall foliage, especially around castles with extensive parkland like Lowther Castle. Some castles, like Wray Castle, have grounds open year-round, but indoor access and specific events may vary seasonally.

Yes, many of the larger castle attractions in Cumbria have on-site cafes or are located near towns with dining options. Lowther Castle has a brilliant cafe, and Sizergh Castle also features a cafe and shop. The town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, which has its own castle, offers cafes and other amenities. For castles closer to urban areas, like Carlisle Castle or Kendal Castle, you'll find a wide range of cafes and pubs in the nearby town centers.

For a unique experience, consider Piel Castle, a 14th-century fortress located on Piel Island, accessible by a small ferry. It offers a glimpse into its past guarding against pirates and scenic views of Morecambe Bay. The ruins of Brougham Castle, set on the banks of the River Eamont, offer an idyllic setting for exploration with its impressive keep and secret passages. Pendragon Castle ruins also provide a sense of remote history.

Parking availability varies by castle. Larger attractions like Lowther Castle typically offer large, often free, car parks. Wray Castle has paid parking for non-National Trust members. For castles within or near towns, such as Kendal Castle or Carlisle Castle, you'll likely use public car parks in the surrounding areas. It's recommended to check the specific castle's website for current parking information before your visit.

Public transport options vary depending on the castle's location. Castles in or near larger towns like Carlisle Castle or Kendal Castle are generally well-served by local buses and trains. For more rural castles, public transport might be limited, requiring a combination of bus/train and then a taxi or a longer walk. For example, Brougham Castle is near Penrith, which has good transport links. Always plan your journey in advance using local transport websites.

Many of Cumbria's castles offer stunning panoramic views due to their strategic historical locations. From Kendal Castle, you can enjoy incredible views of the town and the Lakeland skyline. Brougham Castle's keep provides stunning panoramic views of the Eden Valley. Muncaster Castle overlooks the Ravenglass estuary, offering magnificent vistas. Piel Castle provides scenic views of Morecambe Bay. Even the ruins of Lowther Castle offer dramatic backdrops.