Top 3 Castles around Quernmore
Best castles around Quernmore are found in a region characterized by historical estates and proximity to significant historical sites. Quernmore is home to Quernmore Park Hall, a Georgian country house, and is situated near the notable Lancaster Castle. The area offers a blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes, including views of the Lune Valley, Yorkshire Dales, and Lakeland Fells. This setting provides a backdrop for exploring various historical structures.
Best castles around Quernmore
- The most popular castles is Cockersand Abbey Chapter House and Ruins, a man-made monument that was founded in 1190 as a Premonstratensian priory. All that remains today is a windswept chapter house and ruins.
- Another must-see spot is Lancaster Castle, a historical site dating back to Roman times. Visitors can explore this medieval fortress, which served as a prison until 2011.
- Visitors also love Borwick Hall, a 16th-century manor house. This historical site was originally owned by Roger of Poitou and has been restored to serve as an outdoor education and conference center.
- Quernmore is known for medieval fortresses, historical manor houses, and abbey ruins. The area offers a variety of historical structures to see and explore, from ancient earthworks to restored halls.
- The castles around Quernmore are appreciated by the komoot community, with 49 upvotes and 38 photos contributed by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Cockersand Abbey Chapter House and Ruins
Highlight • Monument
Its location, on a low island of clay in the middle of undrained marshland, earned it the moniker 'St Mary of the Marshes'. Its mix of red sandstone and grey gritstone give it an evocative appearance.
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Borwick Hall
Highlight • Other
In 1910, the building was leased to music critic John Alexander Fuller Maitland providing he restore the building.
During WWII, the hall was used as a military base before being sold to Lancashire County Council who now run the hall as an outdoor education and conference center.
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Castle Stede Motte and Bailey Earthworks
Highlight • Castle
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Hornby Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Today, the house is privately owned, but you can visit the gardens on certain weekends. You can find out when the next open day is on their website: hornbycastle.com/hornby-castle-gardens
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Cockersand Abbey is a former abbey situated near the mouth of the River Cocker. The abbey was dissolved in 1539 and the only significant part still intact is the vaulted Cockersand Abbey chapter house, which was built in 1230.
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Castle Steed was deserted at the beginning of the 13th century after the construction of the castle at nearby Hornby. The earthworks of Castle Stede remain visible and is a great example of a motte and Bailey. It was built to oversee a fording point of the river and its strategic importance was shown nine centuries later with the construction of a pill box during the Second World War.
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Founded in 1190 as a Premonstratensian priory, Cockersand Abbey was elevated to an abbey two years later. All that remains today is a windswept chapter house and ruins that are Grade I-listed. Its location, on a low island of clay in the middle of undrained marshland, earned it the moniker 'St Mary of the Marshes'. Its mix of red sandstone and grey gritstone give it an evocative appearance.
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Borwick Hall is a beautiful 16th-century manor house originally owned by aristocrat Roger of Poitou. The hall belonged to various MPs and elite through the centuries before falling into disrepair by the beginning of the 19th century. In 1910, the building was leased to music critic John Alexander Fuller Maitland providing he restore the building. During WWII, the hall was used as a military base before being sold to Lancashire County Council who now run the hall as an outdoor education and conference center.
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A medieval castle dating back to the 13th century, this an impressive overlooking Hornby Village and the River Wenning. Originally built for the Neville family, the castle passed to various artistocratic families. In the 16th century it was home to Elizabeth and Edward Parker whose son became famous as the peer to be warned about the 1605 Guy Fawkes Gunpowder Plot. Today, the house is privately owned, but you can visit the gardens on certain weekends. You can find out when the next open day is on their website: http://www.hornbycastle.com/hornby-castle-gardens/
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Former abbey next to the Lancashire Coastal Way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical structures can I explore around Quernmore?
The Quernmore area offers a diverse range of historical structures. You can visit medieval fortresses like Lancaster Castle, explore the ruins of Cockersand Abbey Chapter House, or see the well-preserved 16th-century manor house Borwick Hall. Additionally, there are ancient earthworks such as Castle Stede Motte and Bailey Earthworks, providing a glimpse into earlier fortifications.
Are there any family-friendly castles or historical sites near Quernmore?
Yes, Lancaster Castle is a great family-friendly option. It offers guided tours that delve into its rich history, including tales of the Pendle Witches, and its past as a prison. The impressive medieval architecture and engaging stories make it suitable for visitors of all ages.
What is the best time of year to visit castles around Quernmore?
Visiting during spring or summer (April to September) is generally recommended for the most pleasant experience. The weather is typically milder, making it ideal for exploring outdoor ruins like Cockersand Abbey and the grounds of Hornby Castle when its gardens are open. Indoor attractions like Lancaster Castle are accessible year-round, but the surrounding landscapes are more vibrant in warmer months.
Can I visit castle ruins or earthworks near Quernmore?
Absolutely. For castle ruins, you can explore the windswept Cockersand Abbey Chapter House and Ruins, which was founded as a priory in 1190. If you're interested in ancient earthworks, Castle Stede Motte and Bailey Earthworks offers a visible example of a deserted 13th-century fortification.
Are there any castles near Quernmore that offer guided tours?
Yes, Lancaster Castle provides guided tours that offer in-depth insights into its 1,000-year history, including its time as a court and prison. These tours are a great way to learn about the castle's rich and often dark past.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to castles in the Quernmore area?
The Quernmore area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling routes nearby. For example, there are easy hikes around Quernmore, including loops from Caton Lune Bridge, or more challenging routes like the Clougha Pike loop. You can explore these options further in the hiking guide or cycling guide for Quernmore.
Is there a historical estate in Quernmore itself, even if not a traditional castle?
While Quernmore doesn't have a traditional medieval castle, it is home to Quernmore Park Hall. This Grade II* listed Georgian country house, built between 1795 and 1798, is a significant historical estate. It features impressive Georgian architecture, stunning grounds with ancient woodlands, and offers a glimpse into historical estate life in a beautiful rural setting.
How long should I plan for a visit to the castles near Quernmore?
For a comprehensive visit to Lancaster Castle, especially if taking a guided tour, allow at least 2-3 hours. Exploring the ruins of Cockersand Abbey or the earthworks of Castle Stede might take 1-2 hours, depending on how much you wish to explore the surrounding area. Visits to Borwick Hall or Hornby Castle (when gardens are open) can also vary from 1-3 hours.
Are there any castles near Quernmore that are privately owned but occasionally open to the public?
Yes, Hornby Castle, a medieval castle dating back to the 13th century, is privately owned. However, its gardens are occasionally open to the public on certain weekends. It's advisable to check their official website for specific open days before planning your visit.
What are some notable architectural features of the historical sites in the Quernmore region?
The region showcases diverse architectural styles. Lancaster Castle is a prime example of medieval fortress architecture with its towers, gatehouses, and courtyards. Quernmore Park Hall, though not a castle, is a significant Georgian country house featuring a tetrastyle Ionic portico and Grecian plasterwork. Cockersand Abbey, a Grade I-listed ruin, displays a mix of red sandstone and grey gritstone.
Can I find cafes or refreshments near the castles in the Quernmore area?
Yes, particularly near Lancaster Castle, which is located in the city of Lancaster, you'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within easy walking distance. For other sites like Cockersand Abbey or Castle Stede, which are in more rural settings, it's advisable to bring your own refreshments or check for nearby village amenities before your visit.
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