Top 5 Castles around Hexhamshire
Best castles around Hexhamshire are found in a historic area of Northumberland, England, known for its rich past and fortified structures. This region offers a blend of Roman archaeological sites and medieval fortifications. The landscape features rolling parkland and proximity to the River North Tyne, providing a setting for exploring historical architecture. Visitors can discover various types of historical sites, from Roman forts to medieval gatehouses.
Best castles around Hexhamshire
- The most popular castles is Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum, a historical site that was an important military stronghold before and during the construction of Hadrian's Wall. It is one of the most fascinating Roman archaeological sites in Britain, with remains of forts, bathhouses, and a museum housing thousands of artifacts including the Vindolanda Tablets.
- Another must-see spot is Black Carts Turret (Hadrian's Wall), a historical site and one of the remaining ruins of fortifications on Hadrian's Wall. This turret sits within a 460 meter length of Hadrian's Wall and offers views to the north.
- Visitors also love Beaufront Castle Gatehouse, a historical site that serves as the gateway to the impressive Beaufront Castle. The gatehouse is believed to be part of historic structures, including a 17th-century house and a clock tower with a bell dating from 1694.
- Hexhamshire is known for Roman forts, medieval gatehouses, and fortified manor houses. Visitors can explore a variety of historical structures, from ancient Roman military sites to medieval defensive buildings.
- The castles around Hexhamshire are appreciated by the komoot community, with 54 upvotes and 113 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum
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On site, you'll see the remains of forts, bathhouses, barracks, and a Roman village (vicus), replicas of Roman buildings and sections of Hadrian's Wall, and a modern museum with thousands of artifacts: shoes, toys, weapons, jewelry, and more.
🍵 Visitor facilities: Café, shop, guided tours, and listening posts with explanations.
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The Moot Hall, Hexham
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Beaufront Castle Gatehouse
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The gatehouse is believed to be part of this historic structure and served as both ceremonial and functional access to the estate. It stands on a site where a pele tower—a fortified tower house that was later incorporated into the manor house—was mentioned as early as 1415.
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Black Carts Turret (Hadrian's Wall)
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Ruins of Staward Peel
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The Beaufront Castle Gatehouse is the gateway to the impressive Beaufront Castle, a Grade I listed manor house in Northumberland, near Hexham. Although the castle itself was built between 1836 and 1841 in the Castellated Gothic Revival style by architect John Dobson, the complex contains older elements such as a clock tower with a bell dating from 1694 and parts of a 17th-century house belonging to the Errington family. The gatehouse is believed to be part of this historic structure and served as both ceremonial and functional access to the estate. It stands on a site where a pele tower—a fortified tower house that was later incorporated into the manor house—was mentioned as early as 1415.
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Hexham Moot Hall is an impressive medieval gatehouse dating from around 1379, situated on the east side of the Market Place. It was built by order of the Archbishop of York, Alexander Neville, as a gateway to the walled complex surrounding the Old Gaol. A Grade I listed building, it is one of the best-preserved medieval courthouses in Northern England. It comprises a four-story tower with a vaulted doorway on the ground floor and a courtroom on the first floor. The tower features Gothic windows, a machicolated parapet, and a three-story annex with a stepped gable. It served as the Hexhamshire Courthouse until 1572, and then for the midsummer quarter sessions until 1838.
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🏛️ Vindolanda Fort is one of the most fascinating Roman archaeological sites in Britain. Built around 85 AD and rebuilt nine times, Vindolanda was an important military stronghold before and during the construction of Hadrian's Wall. The highlight of the discovery were the Vindolanda Tablets – wooden tablets containing personal letters, shopping lists, and even birthday party invitations. They are the oldest handwritten documents in Britain. On site, you'll see the remains of forts, bathhouses, barracks, and a Roman village (vicus), replicas of Roman buildings and sections of Hadrian's Wall, and a modern museum with thousands of artifacts: shoes, toys, weapons, jewelry, and more. 🍵 Visitor facilities: Café, shop, guided tours, and listening posts with explanations.
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This tower was positioned at a strategic defensive point atop the River Allen as it passes through Steward Gorge, within the current National Trust property of Allen Banks & Staward Gorge. The origins of this tower date back to the early 14th century, and since then, it has endured over time to its current ruined state, being listed as Grade II.
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The ruins of Staward Peel, are situated on top of a hill which over looks the River Allen as it flows through Staward Gorge.
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Vindolanda was a Roman fort that was occupied from the late 80s AD to the early 5th century AD. It is one of the best-preserved Roman forts in England, and has been the site of extensive archaeological excavations. The excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including weapons, armor, tools, and pottery. They have also revealed the remains of the fort's buildings, including the barracks, headquarters, and bathhouse. One of the most significant discoveries at Vindolanda is the Vindolanda tablets. These are a collection of wooden tablets that were written on by the soldiers and civilians who lived at the fort. The tablets contain a wide range of information about everyday life at Vindolanda, including letters, invitations, and shopping lists. The Vindolanda tablets are a unique and valuable source of information about Roman life on Hadrian's Wall. They provide us with a glimpse into the world of the Roman soldiers and civilians who lived and worked at the fort. Vindolanda is a popular tourist destination, and the museum on site houses a collection of artifacts from the fort, including the Vindolanda tablets. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the history of the fort and the life of the Romans on Hadrian's Wall.
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One of the remaining ruins of fortifications on Hadrian's Wall. Managed by English Heritage it's open all year and free entry. Link it up with a walk to or from Chesters Roman Fort to the east.
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exciting section of Hadrian's Wall
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical sites can I explore around Hexhamshire?
Hexhamshire offers a diverse range of historical sites, from ancient Roman archaeological sites to medieval fortifications. You can discover Roman forts, medieval gatehouses, fortified manor houses, and even a unique castle hotel. The region's rich past is evident in structures like Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum, The Moot Hall, Hexham, and the Beaufront Castle Gatehouse.
Beyond traditional castles, what other Roman historical sites are there?
Hexhamshire is particularly rich in Roman history. You can visit Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum, which was an important military stronghold before and during the construction of Hadrian's Wall. It features remains of forts, bathhouses, and a museum housing thousands of artifacts, including the famous Vindolanda Tablets. Another significant site is Black Carts Turret (Hadrian's Wall), one of the remaining fortifications directly on Hadrian's Wall.
Are there any medieval gatehouses or fortified manor houses to visit?
Yes, Hexhamshire features several impressive medieval structures. The Moot Hall in Hexham is a well-preserved medieval gatehouse dating back to around 1379, which served as a courthouse. Aydon Castle is another remarkable example, a well-preserved 13th-century manor house that was fortified due to Anglo-Scottish conflicts. The Beaufront Castle Gatehouse also incorporates older elements, including a 17th-century house and a bell from 1694.
What makes Vindolanda Roman Fort a significant site?
Vindolanda Fort is one of Britain's most fascinating Roman archaeological sites. Built around 85 AD and rebuilt nine times, it was a crucial military stronghold. Excavations have uncovered extensive remains of forts, bathhouses, barracks, and a Roman village. The highlight of its discovery was the Vindolanda Tablets – the oldest handwritten documents in Britain, offering unique insights into daily Roman life.
Are there any castles that offer accommodation or unique experiences?
Yes, Langley Castle Hotel offers a unique blend of history and hospitality. This formidable 14th-century fortified castle has retained its architectural integrity and is one of the few medieval fortified castle hotels in England. You can experience its historical ambiance through regally-styled interiors, fine dining, and its setting within a 12-acre woodland estate. For more information, you can visit celticcastles.com.
Are there family-friendly castles and historical sites around Hexhamshire?
Several sites in Hexhamshire are considered family-friendly. Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum (and its ruins, Vindolanda Roman Fort Ruins) offers interactive exhibits and a chance to explore ancient Roman life, which can be engaging for all ages. The Beaufront Castle Gatehouse is also listed as family-friendly, providing an interesting historical landmark to visit.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The Hexhamshire region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, with options for easy walks around Hexhamshire. For cyclists, there are dedicated routes for mountain biking and road cycling. You can find more details on these activities in the Easy hikes around Hexhamshire, MTB Trails around Hexhamshire, and Road Cycling Routes around Hexhamshire guides.
Are there hiking trails near Hexhamshire castles?
Yes, Hexhamshire offers a variety of hiking trails. For easy walks, you can explore routes like the 'River Tyne loop from Hexham' or the 'Hexham Abbey – Hexham Market Cross loop from Hexham'. These trails provide a great way to experience the local landscape and history. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Hexhamshire guide.
Can I find routes for mountain biking or road cycling near the castles?
Absolutely. The Hexhamshire area is well-suited for both mountain biking and road cycling. Mountain bikers can tackle routes such as the 'Bellingham & Hexham loop on the Sandstone Way', while road cyclists might enjoy the 'Beaufront Castle Gatehouse – Hexham Abbey loop from Hexham'. Detailed routes can be found in the MTB Trails around Hexhamshire and Road Cycling Routes around Hexhamshire guides.
What is the best time to visit Hexhamshire castles?
Hexhamshire castles and historical sites can be visited year-round, each season offering a different perspective. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring outdoor ruins and walking the grounds. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a stark, atmospheric beauty, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check specific site opening times before your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about Hexhamshire's historical sites?
Visitors frequently appreciate the well-preserved nature of the sites, such as the intact 13th-century Aydon Castle and the extensive Roman remains at Vindolanda. The unique blend of history, from Roman forts to medieval gatehouses, and the opportunity to see artifacts like the Vindolanda Tablets, are often highlighted. The scenic settings, like Chipchase Castle's parkland down to the River North Tyne, also add to the experience.
Are there any 'hidden gem' castles or lesser-known historical sites in Hexhamshire?
While not entirely hidden, Chipchase Castle offers a fascinating architectural blend that might be less commonly known than the Roman sites. It features a 17th-century Jacobean mansion alongside a much older 14th-century pele tower, showcasing an evolution of fortified residences. Though privately owned, its unique structure is a significant draw for those interested in architectural history.
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