Top 5 Castles around Nether Staveley

Both Wray Castle and Sizergh Castle and Gardens are excellent choices for families. Wray Castle, a 19th-century Gothic Revival building, offers lakeside trails and gardens, while Sizergh Castle features extensive gardens, including a mirror lake and a working kitchen garden, alongside the historical castle itself.

Yes, several castles offer pleasant walking opportunities. At Wray Castle, you can enjoy lakeside trails and explore the gardens. Sizergh Castle and Gardens boasts wonderful extended parkland and gardens. Kendal Castle, though ruins, is easily accessible with a great walk up from the town centre.

Parking is available at some locations. At Wray Castle, you can park, though there's a charge for non-National Trust members. Similarly, non-members must pay for parking at Sizergh Castle and Gardens. Kendal Castle is located above the market town, so town centre parking would be the most convenient option.

The area around Nether Staveley showcases a diverse range of historical structures. You can find 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture like Wray Castle, medieval fortified manor houses such as Sizergh Castle and Gardens, and ancient ruins like Kendal Castle. Additionally, you can discover pele towers, like the 14th-century Kentmere Hall.

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'River Kent – Beckmickle Ing loop from Staveley' (moderate, 7.3 km), or more challenging routes like the 'More? The Artisan Bakery loop from Staveley' (difficult, 19.4 km). For mountain biking, options include the 'Wheelbase Cycles Café – Three Rivers Bridleway loop from Staveley' (easy, 13.6 km). Cycling routes like the 'Three Rivers Bridleway – Barley Bridge Weir loop from Staveley' (moderate, 13.5 km) are also available. You can explore these and more on the respective guide pages for running, MTB, and cycling around Nether Staveley.

Yes, you'll find refreshment options. Wray Castle has a cafe on-site. Sizergh Castle and Gardens also features a cafe and shop. For Kendal Castle, being close to the market town of Kendal, you'll have access to numerous cafes and pubs within easy reach.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, historical significance, and beautiful surroundings. For instance, Kendal Castle is loved for its 'stupendous views of both the town and beyond to the tumultuous Lakeland skyline.' Sizergh Castle and Gardens is appreciated for its 'wonderful garden, shop, cafe and wider estate to explore.' The lakeside trails and gardens at Wray Castle are also highly rated.

Many castles and their grounds remain accessible during winter, though opening hours and specific facilities might be reduced. For example, the grounds and exterior of Wray Castle and Sizergh Castle and Gardens often offer beautiful winter walks. Kendal Castle, as ruins, is generally open year-round. It's always best to check the specific castle's website for current winter opening times and conditions before your visit.

While not a traditional castle, Kentmere Hall is a fascinating historical site. It's a 14th-century pele tower, with original turrets, a window, and a spiral staircase still intact. It was extended in the 15th or 16th century and now serves as a farmhouse, offering a glimpse into the region's fortified past beyond the more well-known castles.

Given the varied weather in the Lake District, it's advisable to dress in layers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore castle grounds or nearby trails. A waterproof jacket is recommended year-round, and in cooler months, a warm hat and gloves will enhance your comfort.

Yes, Kendal Castle is notably associated with the Parr family, particularly Katherine Parr, who became the last of Henry VIII's queens. The castle was once the home of the barons of Kendal, with the Parrs being the most renowned of these baronial families.

Absolutely. Kendal Castle, situated high above the market town, offers 'stupendous views of both the town and beyond to the tumultuous Lakeland skyline.' Additionally, the grounds and surrounding areas of other castles, like Wray Castle on Lake Windermere, provide scenic vistas of the natural landscape.