Top 3 Castles around Kelloe
Best castles around Kelloe are primarily found within the wider County Durham region, as Kelloe itself features only uncertain medieval remains of a historical site known as "Town Kelloe Castle Hill." These remains consist of earthworks and ditches, associated with a medieval manor house, but are not publicly accessible. The area's history is rooted in its past as a mining village and medieval settlements. For well-preserved and accessible castles, visitors typically explore nearby locations in County Durham.
Best castles around Kelloe
- The most popular castles is Castle Eden Mansion, a man-made monument that is an 18th Century Palladian style mansion. It is viewable from many points on a walk around the nearby Castle Eden Dene nature reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Durham Castle, a castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been continuously occupied since its construction began in 1072 and is now part of Durham University.
- Visitors also love Croxdale Hall and Chapel, a privately owned, Grade I-listed mansion with a disused 12th-century chapel. It is a notable sight for walkers on the Weardale Way long-distance trail.
- Kelloe is known for historical sites and medieval structures. The wider region offers a variety of castles, from ancient fortifications to grand mansions, providing insight into centuries of history.
- The castles around Kelloe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 90 upvotes and over 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Durham Castle
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Croxdale Hall and Chapel
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Castle Eden Mansion
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View of Durham Cathedral from Prebends Bridge
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Tips from the Community
From the 18th-century stone bridge, you can see Durham Cathedral and Castle on top of a rocky peninsula, wrapped by the River Wear.
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The cathedral was originally constructed to house the relics of St Cuthbert, a beloved Northumbrian saint. His shrine is a significant pilgrimage destination.
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An 18th Century Palladian style mansion set above the woodland of Castle Eden Burn. It's an impressive site although not open to the public. Viewable from many points on a walk around nearby Castle Eden Dene nature reserve.
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The view from the bridge over the river is nice, but concerning the cathedral you actually have a better view from the riverbank.
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Donated to the university and now used as student residence. Therefore opening times are limited, but one can get a glimpse into the inner yard when asking friendly.
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A stone arch bridge across the river Weir, it's construction was completed in 1778. The bridge was built slightly upstream of the previous bridge to give a better view of the cathedral. Durham Cathedral was established as a shrine to St. Cuthbert in the year 995. The present cathedral was largely finished by 1093. It's the only cathedral in England to retain the Norman carftmanship. The western towers date from the 12th and 13th centuary with the central tower added in the 15th centuary.
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Stunning view over the bridge to the cathedral
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Right next to the Cathedral is Durham Castle which is now part of the university
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles can I visit near Kelloe?
While Kelloe itself does not have publicly accessible traditional castles, the surrounding County Durham region offers several impressive historical sites. Notable options include Durham Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back to 1072. You can also find Croxdale Hall and Chapel, a Grade I-listed mansion with a 12th-century chapel, and Castle Eden Mansion, an 18th-century Palladian style mansion.
Are there any castles directly in Kelloe that I can visit?
There is a historical site known as "Town Kelloe Castle Hill" in Kelloe, but its existence as a traditional castle is doubted, and only uncertain medieval remains are present. These sites are generally not open to the public, and permission from landowners would be required to visit. For accessible castle experiences, you will need to venture to other locations in County Durham.
What is the best time to visit castles near Kelloe?
The best time to visit castles in the County Durham area generally depends on your preference for weather and crowds. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and often more events, though they can be busier. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a quieter, more atmospheric experience, but some attractions might have reduced opening hours.
Are there family-friendly castles around Kelloe?
Durham Castle is categorized as family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience for visitors of all ages. Its continuous occupation since 1072 and its role as part of Durham University provide a unique educational context.
What kind of natural features or viewpoints can I find near these castles?
Near Durham Castle, you can enjoy glorious views of the River Wear and Durham Cathedral from Prebends Bridge. For Castle Eden Mansion, while the mansion itself is not publicly accessible, it is viewable from many points on a walk around the nearby Castle Eden Dene nature reserve, offering scenic woodland and natural beauty.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Kelloe and its nearby castles offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking. You can find numerous routes, such as the 'Crowtrees Local Nature Reserve – View of Durham Cathedral loop' or the 'Sunset View Over the Hills – View of Harvey Wood loop'. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking around Kelloe guide.
Are there hiking trails near Durham Castle?
Yes, there are hiking opportunities around Durham Castle. For example, the 'Crowtrees Local Nature Reserve – View of Durham Cathedral loop' is a moderate 7.5 km route that offers views towards the cathedral. You can find more details and other routes in the Hiking around Kelloe guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about Durham Castle?
Visitors frequently highlight the historical significance of Durham Castle, especially its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the magnificent cathedral. Its continuous occupation since 1072 and its current use as part of Durham University are also points of interest. The Great Hall, despite being downsized from its original 14th-century grandeur, remains an impressive feature.
Can I visit Croxdale Hall and Chapel?
Croxdale Hall and Chapel is a privately owned, Grade I-listed mansion. While it's a fine sight for walkers on the Weardale Way long-distance trail, direct public access to the interior may be limited. The disused 12th-century chapel on the site is also Grade I-listed and is on English Heritage's Buildings At Risk register.
Is Castle Eden Mansion open to the public?
Castle Eden Mansion is an impressive 18th-century Palladian style mansion. It is not generally open to the public but can be viewed from various points while walking around the nearby Castle Eden Dene nature reserve.
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