Top 4 Castles around Harton
Best castles around Harton offers a selection of historical sites, though Harton itself, a suburban area of South Shields, is primarily known for its development from a village. The area's historical significance is rooted in its past as a village, with structures like St Peter's Church representing its heritage. While no standing castles are directly within Harton, the surrounding geographical area provides access to notable historical castle sites. These sites offer insights into regional history and architectural styles.
Best castles around Harton
- The most popular castles is Castle Howard, a castle that is a magnificent stately home built in 1699 by architect John Vanbrugh. It has been home to the Howard family for over 300 years and is set amongst extensive gardens and parkland.
- Another must-see spot is Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower, a historical site. This interesting folly, pretending to be medieval, offers great views towards the village of Welburn.
- Visitors also love Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins, a historical site. This large ruin of a quadrangle castle is a notable historical landmark.
- Harton is known for stately homes, mock fortifications, and castle ruins. The variety of castles to see and explore includes well-preserved estates and significant historical remnants.
- The castles around Harton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and 12 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Castle Howard Obelisk
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Castle Howard Gatehouse (The Temperance Hotel)
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Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower
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Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins
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Tips from the Community
Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).
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Easily accessible as a public footpath runs north/south right past the tower. One of a number of towers that radiate east/west from the Castle Howard Gatehouse (aka Temperance Inn).
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The original Gate House, with its famous pyramid, was built in 1719 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect who designed Castle Howard itself. Its flanking wings plus building were built in the 1750s, at which time it was referred to as The New Inn and served people journeying from York to Castle Howard and the Vale of Pickering. By the 1850s, the Gate House had become an inn and an hotel. By the late 19th century, it was developed into The Temperance Hotel, where the ninth Countess of Carlisle would accommodate women and children from the industrial belt of the North to help them to escape "urban drudgery".
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An interesting folly (pretending to be medieval) and a tower within the Castle Howard grounds. These are mock fortifications - fascinating! There are great views from here towards the village of Welburn.
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The Obelisk, raised in 1714-15, carries two sets of inscriptions. The first, in Latin, commemorates the victories of the 1st Duke of Marlborough. The second, on the west side is in English, was composed in 1731 when much of the building and landscaping had been completed. It was written with posterity in mind and is the clearest statement possible of the 3rd Earl's aspirations for his family.
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Castle Howard is enormous! It doesn't conjure up Brideshead but is well worth seeing in its own right. The formal gardens, extensive grounds and house are each worth seeing separately.
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Large ruin of a quadrangle castle that you can actually hire for outdoor events. It's a very cool ruin, and makes for a great picnic stop along your way.
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Plenty to see in this huge estate, many quiet roads and great trails, lots of scope for stealth camping
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any castles directly within Harton itself?
Harton, a suburban area of South Shields, does not have standing castles within its immediate vicinity. Its historical significance lies more in its development from a village, with structures like St Peter's Church representing its heritage. However, the surrounding geographical area provides access to notable historical castle sites.
What types of castles can I find in the area surrounding Harton?
The area around Harton offers a variety of historical sites, including magnificent stately homes like Castle Howard, interesting follies such as the Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower, and significant ruins like Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins.
Which castles are suitable for families with children?
Many of the castles in the surrounding area are family-friendly. Castle Howard, with its extensive gardens and parkland, is a great option. The Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower and Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins also welcome families, offering space to explore and picnic.
What historical insights can I gain from visiting these castles?
You can explore centuries of history. Castle Howard, for instance, is a Baroque stately home built in 1699 and has been home to the Howard family for over 300 years. The Castle Howard Gatehouse, built in 1719, also has a rich history, serving as an inn and later a 'Temperance Hotel'.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the castles?
Yes, Castle Howard has facilities including tea rooms and a take-away coffee shop. For other sites like Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins, it's advisable to bring your own refreshments for a picnic, as it's a ruin.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles near Harton?
The main house at Castle Howard is typically open from March until November, while the gardens are usually accessible from 10 am to 5 pm. Visiting during spring or summer allows for full enjoyment of the outdoor grounds and better weather for exploring ruins.
Can I go hiking or do other outdoor activities near these castles?
Yes, the wider area around Harton offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Howsham Wood and Kirkham Priory loop' or 'Kirkham Priory Ruins loop', which are detailed in the Hiking around Harton guide. There are also running and mountain biking trails available.
Are there any viewpoints near the castles?
The Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower is noted for offering great views towards the village of Welburn. This folly provides an excellent vantage point within the Castle Howard grounds.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this region?
Visitors appreciate the grandeur of stately homes like Castle Howard, often described as one of Europe's great palaces. The historical significance of the ruins and mock fortifications, along with the extensive gardens and opportunities for picnics, are also highly valued.
Are there any unique architectural features to look out for?
Absolutely. Castle Howard is a prime example of Baroque architecture. The Castle Howard Gatehouse features a famous pyramid, and the Mock Medieval Tower is an interesting folly designed to appear medieval.
Is it possible to hire any of the castle sites for events?
Yes, Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins is a large quadrangle castle ruin that can actually be hired for outdoor events, making it a unique venue for special occasions.
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