Top 5 Castles around Kirkby Thore

Within Kirkby Thore, you can explore the site of Whelp Castle, believed to be a former fortified manor house, though no visible remains exist today. The village is also home to Kirkby Thore Hall, a well-preserved 14th-century medieval hall house. Additionally, the village is built upon the site of the Roman cavalry camp Bravoniacum, where the rampart of the fort is still visible as a low, distinct terrace.

Several castles near Kirkby Thore offer family-friendly experiences. Lowther Castle is highly recommended, featuring a dramatic ruined castle, extensive restored gardens, and a large adventure playground. Appleby-in-Westmorland, where Appleby Castle is located, is also considered family-friendly, offering a charming town to explore. The viewpoint for Brougham Castle is also listed as family-friendly.

While specific dog policies vary, many outdoor historical sites and castle grounds in the region are generally dog-friendly, especially for well-behaved dogs on leads. For instance, the extensive grounds and gardens at Lowther Castle are popular for walks with dogs. It's always best to check individual site regulations before visiting.

The area around Kirkby Thore offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy hikes like the 'Morland Village – Dangerous Ford and Footbridge loop'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes and mountain biking trails, such as the 'Greg's Hut loop from Skirwith'. Many of these routes pass by or are close to historical sites and natural features.

The best time to visit the castles and historical sites around Kirkby Thore is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is milder, making it more pleasant for exploring outdoor ruins, gardens, and walking trails. Many attractions also have extended opening hours during the peak summer season.

Kirkby Thore itself has local amenities. For a wider selection, nearby towns like Appleby-in-Westmorland and Penrith offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Lowther Castle has a brilliant cafe on-site, and Brougham Hall also features a cafe and picnic site.

Lowther Castle is unique because it's a dramatic ruin built in the early 19th century on the site of earlier houses. Despite being largely demolished in 1957, its impressive façade and outer walls remain. Visitors can explore its extensive restored gardens, an exhibition detailing its history, and enjoy a large adventure playground, making it a blend of history, nature, and family fun.

Appleby Castle, located in Appleby-in-Westmorland, is a Norman castle. While it is a private home, it is open to the public for visits, stays, and dining. The town itself is a picturesque market town in the Eden Valley, offering a good selection of shops and cafes, and serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.

The Kirkby Thore Roman Fort, known as Bravoniacum, is a nationally rare and significant archaeological site. It was a Roman cavalry camp occupied from the late 1st century AD into the late 4th century AD. Its visible rampart and strategic location on a main road leading to Hadrian's Wall highlight its importance in understanding the Roman military presence in Britain.

Yes, there are easy walking opportunities. For instance, the site of the Kirkby Thore Roman Fort offers a gentle exploration of its visible rampart. The grounds of Lowther Castle provide extensive walking trails suitable for various abilities. Additionally, the guide for easy hikes around Kirkby Thore features routes like the 'Morland Village – Dangerous Ford and Footbridge loop' which are suitable for leisurely strolls.

Brougham Castle is a 13th-century castle, offering a well-preserved example of a medieval fortification. Situated picturesquely by the River Eamont, it provides significant historical depth into medieval architecture and life in the region.

Many castles in the area offer picturesque views. For example, the View of Brougham Castle highlight specifically points out the lovely views of the castle and the River Eamont. Lowther Castle, with its extensive gardens, also provides scenic vistas of the ruined castle and surrounding landscape.