Dunstanburgh Castle

Dunstanburgh Castle Built on the most magnificent scale, Dunstanburgh Castle stands on a remote headland in Northumberland.
(877)

The castle was built at a time when relations between King Edward II and his most powerful baron, Earl Thomas of Lancaster, had become openly hostile. Lancaster began the fortress in 1313, and the latest archaeological research indicates that he built it on a far grander scale than was originally recognised, perhaps more as a symbol of his opposition to the king than as a military stronghold. Unfo

rtunately the earl failed to reach Dunstanburgh when his rebellion was defeated, and was taken and executed in 1322. Thereafter the castle passed eventually to John of Gaunt, who strengthened it against the Scots by converting the great twin towered gatehouse into a keep. The focus of fierce fighting during the Wars of the Roses, it was twice besieged and captured by Yorkist forces, but subsequently fell into decay.

🏰Did You Know? That's not flooding - it's a lake!In the 14th century three freshwater meres surrounded Dunstanburgh Cast...
17/12/2025

🏰Did You Know?
That's not flooding - it's a lake!

In the 14th century three freshwater meres surrounded Dunstanburgh Castle. These were part-defensive moat, part-ornamental landscaping, and the water was diverted from a local spring to keep them full.

In the 21st century, winter rains bring the North mere back to life for a few months, and we can see the past with our own eyes.

With the castle open to the public every weekend this winter (as well as 27th Dec to 1st Jan) there are plenty of opportunities to see it for yourself!

Address

Castle Head
Craster
NE663TT

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm
Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm
Sunday 10am - 4pm

Telephone

+441665576231

Website

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