Top 4 Castles around Kielder

The castles in the Kielder region, including those a short drive away, are historically significant due to their role in border defense and clan history. They range from former ducal hunting lodges like Kielder Castle to imposing border strongholds such as Hermitage Castle and Ruins of Bewcastle Castle, which guarded against Scottish incursions and were involved in conflicts with the Border Reivers.

Yes, Kielder Castle is located directly within Kielder Forest. Originally built in 1775 as a ducal hunting lodge, it typically serves as a visitor center and gateway to the extensive Kielder Forest, offering access to trails and various artworks. Please note that the castle building itself is currently undergoing renovations and is closed until Spring 2026, though surrounding facilities and trails remain open. You can find more information on Visit Kielder's website.

Hermitage Castle, a semi-ruined 13th-century fortress, is renowned for its raw and authentic historical experience, largely untouched by modern tourism. Known as 'the guardhouse of the bloodiest valley in Britain,' its stark and dramatic appearance, combined with its rich and often violent history, makes it a compelling visit for those interested in medieval warfare and border reiver stories. It's also said to be one of Scotland's most sinister and atmospheric castles.

The Ruins of Bewcastle Castle are located in the northeastern corner of an old Roman fort in Cumbria. Built around 1092, it served as a crucial border defense. Today, the ruins are unstable and partly inaccessible, but its walls, up to 9 meters high, still show visible windows and fireplaces. It remains a powerful symbol of border defense and medieval architecture, strategically located on the Roman road Maiden Way.

A peel tower is a common type of fortified house found in the Anglo-Scottish borders, designed for defense against raids during turbulent times. Near Kielder, you can visit the Mangerton Tower Ruins, which are the remains of a former peel tower. This site was once a stronghold of the powerful Armstrong Clan during the 16th and 17th centuries, offering a tangible link to that significant period and local clan history.

While some castles like Ruins of Bewcastle Castle and Hermitage Castle offer historical exploration, Kielder Castle, though currently closed for renovation, typically serves as a visitor center within Kielder Forest. The surrounding Kielder Forest offers numerous family-friendly activities, including access to the Lakeside Way, mountain biking routes, and various artworks like the Minotaur Maze, making it a great base for families.

The Kielder area is excellent for outdoor activities. Near the castles, you can find various routes for different sports. For mountain biking, explore trails like the Kielder Deadwater MTB Trail. Hikers can enjoy routes such as the Kielder Castle to Silvas Capitalis loop. Cyclists have options like the Kielder Castle – Kielder Viaduct loop. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Kielder, Hiking around Kielder, and Cycling around Kielder guides.

The best time to visit castles in the Kielder area is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and more predictable, making outdoor exploration of the castle ruins and surrounding landscapes more enjoyable. Always check specific opening times and conditions for individual sites before your visit, especially for sites like Kielder Castle which is undergoing renovations.

Accessibility varies significantly between the castles. Kielder Castle, when open, typically offers visitor center facilities. However, sites like the Ruins of Bewcastle Castle are unstable and partly inaccessible due to their ruined state. Hermitage Castle is a semi-ruined 13th-century fortress, and its approach on foot is said to enhance the experience, suggesting varied terrain. It's advisable to research specific accessibility details for each site before planning your visit.

Many outdoor areas around Kielder, including trails in Kielder Forest, are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be kept on a lead. For specific castle sites, policies can vary. While the outdoor ruins might be accessible, internal areas or visitor centers may have restrictions. It's best to check the individual castle's visitor information or official websites for their specific dog policies before your visit.

The time needed to visit each castle varies. For sites like the Ruins of Bewcastle Castle or Mangerton Tower Ruins, you might spend 1-2 hours exploring the ruins and their immediate surroundings. Hermitage Castle, with its dramatic history, might warrant a longer visit of 2-3 hours. If you plan to combine a castle visit with hiking or cycling in Kielder Forest, you could easily spend a full day in the area.