Top 5 Castles around Warcop
Castles around Warcop are situated in Cumbria, England, a region historically significant for its defensive structures against Scottish incursions. The area features a landscape characterized by the Eden Valley, offering historical landmarks and natural features. Warcop itself contains sites like Warcop Tower, a 17th-century house on the site of a medieval fortified manor, and the Moat, visible earthworks near St Columba's Church. These sites provide insight into the region's past need for fortification and the evolution of defensive architecture.
Best…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Appleby-in-Westmorland
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Wharton Hall
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlights of Appleby-in-Westmorland
Highlight • Pub
Tip by
Ruins of Lammerside Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Appleby Castle and Caesar's Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Warcop.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
St Anne's hospital and almshouse. created by Lady Anne Clifford in the 17th century
0
0
you can't visit the castle unless booked in
0
0
These are the ruins of a 12th century building, which was subsequently rebuilt in the 14th century as a Pele tower (a small fortified tower) to protect against Scots raiders. The castle was occupied by some of the Wharton family (there is Wharton Hall in the area, south-west of Kirkby Stephen), but abandoned in the 17th century. Myself, I always wonder about day-to-day life in the past in places such as these, now overtaken by grass and the natural world. Some say I am too sentimental...
1
0
This was a fortified house, built around 1415 by the Wharton family. The family extended the property in the mid-16th century. A deer park was established, requiring the relocation of an entire village nearby. This is a Grade-I protected building these days, as well as a scheduled monument. Appreciate from the outside: this is a private property (the north and west side of it is used nowadays as a farm; the rest is ruins).
1
0
Appleby in Westmorland is a small market town in the Eden valley. It's overlooked by the Pennine range to the east and there are views across to the Lake District in the west. The town has a good selection of shops and cafes. At the northern end of the wide main street is the Moot Hall dated at 1596. The Norman Appleby castle is a private home but is open to the public to visit, stay and eat. Check www.applebycastle.org for opening times, prices and events. It's a great stop or base on a bike ride around north-eastern Cumbria.
1
1
Great base for climbing Great Dun Fell with great cafes for recovery after you have done the climb, picturesque little town as well.
1
0
This magnificent castle, standing proud above the Eden Valley, was built at the behest of William II after he had driven the Scots out of Westmorland in 1092. Caesar's Tower is the oldest part of the building, the top of which gives splendid views of the surrounding countryside. Like so many in the region, the castle was owned by the Cliffords. The great hall once displayed 'the Great Picture', a triptych showing Lady Anne as a teenager on the left, then as an elder on the right, with her family in the middle. The artwork is now on display at the Abbot Hall Gallery and Museum, Kendal.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Warcop itself?
In Warcop, you can observe Warcop Tower from the road, a 17th-century house built on the site of a medieval fortified manor. Additionally, the Moat at Warcop features visible earthworks near the ancient St Columba's Church, providing insight into the region's defensive past.
Are there any castles near Warcop that are open to the public?
Yes, Appleby Castle, located within the settlement of Appleby-in-Westmorland, is open to the public. It's a Norman castle with a rich history, including its oldest part, Caesar's Tower, which offers splendid views of the Eden Valley. It is advisable to check their website for opening times and booking requirements.
What kind of historical structures are common in the Warcop area?
The Warcop area is known for its fortified houses, Pele towers, and castle ruins. These structures, like the Ruins of Lammerside Castle and the site of Warcop Tower, reflect centuries of defensive architecture built to protect against Scottish raiders.
Can I visit Wharton Hall near Warcop?
Wharton Hall is a Grade-I protected fortified house built around 1415. While it is a significant historical site, it is a private property. You can appreciate its architecture and historical presence from the outside.
Are there hiking routes near the castles around Warcop?
Yes, the area around Warcop offers various hiking opportunities. For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Warcop Old Bridge – Haregate Bridge loop' or the 'Garlic and Bluebells – Jubilee Bridge loop from Appleby-in-Westmorland'. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Warcop guide.
What cycling opportunities are there near Warcop's historical sites?
The region provides several cycling routes, including challenging ones like the 'Great Dun Fell Radar Station loop from Appleby' or more moderate options such as the 'Appleby-in-Westmorland – Descent from Murton to Appleby loop'. Discover more routes in the Cycling around Warcop guide.
Are there any family-friendly activities or castles in the Warcop area?
The settlement of Appleby-in-Westmorland, which includes Appleby Castle, is considered family-friendly. The town itself offers a good selection of shops and cafes, making it a pleasant base for families to explore the Eden Valley.
What natural features or viewpoints can I find near these castles?
The castles around Warcop are set within the scenic Eden Valley. From Appleby Castle and Caesar's Tower, you can enjoy splendid views of the surrounding countryside. The area is characterized by its natural beauty, with the Pennine range to the east and views towards the Lake District to the west.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Warcop area's historical sites?
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the glimpse into the past offered by sites like Warcop Tower and the Moat. The broader area, particularly Appleby-in-Westmorland, is enjoyed as a picturesque base for exploring the Eden Valley, with its cafes and charming atmosphere.
Are there mountain biking trails available near Warcop's castles?
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails in the vicinity. Routes such as the 'View of the Vale of Eden – Pendragon Castle ruins loop from Kirkby Stephen' or the 'Hartley Castle – Ruins of Lammerside Castle loop from Kaber' offer moderate challenges. Explore more options in the MTB Trails around Warcop guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and historical sites around Warcop?
The Eden Valley, where Warcop is located, is beautiful year-round. However, for walking and outdoor activities, spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours. Early June is particularly popular in Appleby-in-Westmorland due to the horse fair, which can affect accommodation availability.
Most popular attractions around Warcop
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Warcop:
