Top 20 Castles in Cumbria
Best castles in Cumbria are found within a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including the Lake District and the Eden Valley. This area offers a rich historical tapestry, with numerous castles reflecting centuries of strategic importance and architectural evolution. These sites provide insights into the past, ranging from medieval strongholds to 19th-century follies. Cumbria's geography, with its lakes, rivers, and valleys, often provides scenic backdrops to these historic structures.
Best castles in Cumbria
- The most popular castles is Wray Castle, a castle that is a 19th-century Gothic Revival building on the shore of Lake Windermere. Its grounds are open year-round, offering trails and views.
- Another must-see spot is Sizergh Castle and Gardens, a medieval fortified manor house. Visitors can explore its extensive gardens, including a rock garden and apple orchard, and view the castle's historical collections.
- Visitors also love Kendal Castle, a historical site with romantic ruins. Its elevated position provides views of the town and the Lakeland skyline.
- Cumbria is known for its variety of castles, including medieval fortresses, ruined strongholds, and 19th-century architectural follies. These structures offer a glimpse into different historical periods and architectural styles.
- The castles in Cumbria are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and over 120 photos shared across 33 highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Wray Castle
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Sizergh Castle and Gardens
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The National Trust castle, cafe and shop are also onsite.
NT members are free, non-members must pay to enter the garden and castle.
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Lowther Castle
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Large free car park is a brilliant place to start a bike ride.
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Carlisle Castle
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Ruins of Bewcastle Castle
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The castle had a square plan of 27 meters, surrounded by a dry moat that partially utilized Roman ditches. Within the walls were buildings surrounding a small courtyard, with a gatehouse added later. The walls are up to 9 meters high, with visible windows and fireplaces on the second floor.
Bewcastle Castle was strategically located on the Maiden Way, a Roman road leading to Hadrian's Wall, and played a role in conflicts with the notorious Border Reivers. Today the ruins are unstable and partly inaccessible, but they remain a powerful symbol of border defense and medieval architecture.
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Penrith Castle
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the castle is open 7.30am until 9pm and entrance is free of charge. You can find more information, here: english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/penrith-castle
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Pendragon Castle ruins
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What we do know is that a castle was built here in the late 12th century and came into the stewardship of the Clifford family. Raids by the Scots and a couple of fires ruined the fortress during the 16th century. Lady Anne Clifford oversaw renovations during the 17th century, but the castle fell into disuse once more after her death.
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Drumburgh Castle
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Appleby-in-Westmorland
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Kendal Castle
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Built at some point in the 12th century, it was the home of the barons of Kendal. The Parrs were the most renowned of the baronial families; Katherine Parr, in particular, found fame as the last of Henry VIII's queens. During the reign of the Tudors, the fortress fell into ruin and has remained so ever since.
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Drumburgh Castle in Cumbria was built in 1307 as a pele tower on a Roman foundation of Hadrian's Wall, using reused Roman sandstone. In 1518, it was converted into a fortified house, a so-called bastle house, which features defensive features such as loopholes and blank walls. The building even includes an integrated Roman altar and bears the Dacre coat of arms. As a Grade I-listed building, it is of exceptional heritage importance, but it is currently privately owned and not open to the public.
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Carlisle Castle, built in 1092 by William II, is an imposing medieval fortress on the edge of Carlisle city center, near Hadrian's Wall. The castle played a key role in the Anglo-Scottish conflict, withstanding at least seven sieges between 1174 and 1461. In 1568, Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here, and during the Jacobite Rising of 1745, it was the last English fortress to be besieged. Visitors can explore the 12th-century gatehouse, the Tudor gun platform, and the keep with its 15th-century carvings. Also within its walls is Cumbria's Museum of Military Life, which chronicles 300 years of military history.
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The ruins of Bewcastle Castle lie mysteriously tucked away in the northeastern corner of an old Roman fort in Cumbria. The original castle was built around 1092 on the foundations of the Fanum Cocidii fort and served as a border defense against Scottish incursions. Destroyed in 1173, it was rebuilt in the 14th century by John de Strivelyn, a general of King Edward III. The castle had a square plan of 27 meters, surrounded by a dry moat that partially utilized Roman ditches. Within the walls were buildings surrounding a small courtyard, with a gatehouse added later. The walls are up to 9 meters high, with visible windows and fireplaces on the second floor. Bewcastle Castle was strategically located on the Maiden Way, a Roman road leading to Hadrian's Wall, and played a role in conflicts with the notorious Border Reivers. Today the ruins are unstable and partly inaccessible, but they remain a powerful symbol of border defense and medieval architecture.
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A pele tower was built on this site in 1307 on a former tower of Hadrian's Wall. This castle was then built on the same site in 1518 and then altered to its present design in the 17th century.
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Among the many treasures of the English Lake District, Lowther Castle stands out. Built in the early 19th century on the site of two older houses, the castle once had a room for every day of the year and its gardens were famous in the north. Today, Lowther Castle is a great visitor attraction with dramatic ruins, beautiful gardens, and an adventure playground.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Cumbria are particularly family-friendly?
Several castles in Cumbria offer great experiences for families. Lowther Castle features one of the UK's largest adventure playgrounds, 'The Lost Castle,' along with cycling trails. Wray Castle, a National Trust site on Windermere, has extensive grounds for exploration. Muncaster Castle offers an adventure playground, an enchanted fairy trail, and a Hawk & Owl Centre. Carlisle Castle, while historic, also houses Cumbria's Museum of Military Life, which can engage older children.
What castles are best for history enthusiasts in Cumbria?
For history buffs, Carlisle Castle is a must-visit, with its long history of conflict, including the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots, and its remarkably preserved keep. Sizergh Castle, home to the Strickland family for over 750 years, showcases medieval and Tudor architecture. Kendal Castle, though largely in ruins, was once a stronghold for the Barons of Kendal and owned by Katherine Parr. Brougham Castle, a 13th-century ruin, offers secret passages and spiral staircases.
Are there castles in Cumbria with notable gardens or natural surroundings?
Yes, many castles are set within beautiful landscapes. Sizergh Castle and Gardens is renowned for its extensive gardens, including a rock garden and apple orchard. Muncaster Castle boasts 77-acre grounds with Himalayan gardens and bluebell woods. Lowther Castle features beautifully restored 17th-century gardens. Wray Castle is situated on the shores of Windermere, offering scenic lakeside trails.
What outdoor activities can I do near Cumbria's castles?
The region around Cumbria's castles is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For example, there are many easy hikes in Cumbria, including routes around Tarn Hows. For those seeking more adventure, there are also waterfall hikes and general hiking trails throughout the region. Lowther Castle offers bike hire for exploring its parkland, and Wray Castle serves as a base for cycling along the west side of Windermere.
Are there any castles in Cumbria that are particularly accessible?
Penrith Castle is noted as being wheelchair accessible. While many historic sites may have limitations due to their age, modern facilities at places like Lowther Castle often include accessible paths and amenities. It's always advisable to check specific accessibility details with each castle directly before your visit.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Cumbria?
The best time to visit Cumbria's castles generally depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) offers blooming gardens, such as the bluebell woods at Muncaster Castle, and milder weather for exploring grounds. Summer (June-August) provides the warmest weather and full access to all attractions and outdoor activities. Autumn (September-October) brings beautiful fall foliage, especially around castles with extensive parkland like Lowther Castle. Some castles, like Wray Castle, have grounds open year-round, but indoor access and specific events may vary seasonally.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near Cumbria's castles?
Yes, many of the larger castle attractions in Cumbria have on-site cafes or are located near towns with dining options. Lowther Castle has a brilliant cafe, and Sizergh Castle also features a cafe and shop. The town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, which has its own castle, offers cafes and other amenities. For castles closer to urban areas, like Carlisle Castle or Kendal Castle, you'll find a wide range of cafes and pubs in the nearby town centers.
Are there any castles in Cumbria that are particularly unique or off the beaten path?
For a unique experience, consider Piel Castle, a 14th-century fortress located on Piel Island, accessible by a small ferry. It offers a glimpse into its past guarding against pirates and scenic views of Morecambe Bay. The ruins of Brougham Castle, set on the banks of the River Eamont, offer an idyllic setting for exploration with its impressive keep and secret passages. Pendragon Castle ruins also provide a sense of remote history.
What are the parking options like at Cumbria's castles?
Parking availability varies by castle. Larger attractions like Lowther Castle typically offer large, often free, car parks. Wray Castle has paid parking for non-National Trust members. For castles within or near towns, such as Kendal Castle or Carlisle Castle, you'll likely use public car parks in the surrounding areas. It's recommended to check the specific castle's website for current parking information before your visit.
Can I reach Cumbria's castles using public transport?
Public transport options vary depending on the castle's location. Castles in or near larger towns like Carlisle Castle or Kendal Castle are generally well-served by local buses and trains. For more rural castles, public transport might be limited, requiring a combination of bus/train and then a taxi or a longer walk. For example, Brougham Castle is near Penrith, which has good transport links. Always plan your journey in advance using local transport websites.
What kind of views can I expect from Cumbria's castles?
Many of Cumbria's castles offer stunning panoramic views due to their strategic historical locations. From Kendal Castle, you can enjoy incredible views of the town and the Lakeland skyline. Brougham Castle's keep provides stunning panoramic views of the Eden Valley. Muncaster Castle overlooks the Ravenglass estuary, offering magnificent vistas. Piel Castle provides scenic views of Morecambe Bay. Even the ruins of Lowther Castle offer dramatic backdrops.
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