Top 9 Castles around Lowick

The castles around Lowick offer a rich tapestry of English history. In Northumberland, many castles like Ford Castle and Etal Castle played crucial roles in the Anglo-Scottish border conflicts. In Northamptonshire, sites like Fotheringhay Castle are known for pivotal events, such as the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots, while Drayton House showcases centuries of architectural evolution.

Yes, several castles around Lowick are suitable for families. Holy Island (Lindisfarne) offers a unique island experience with its castle and priory. Ford Castle, while now an activity center, still provides a historical backdrop. Castle Ashby in Northamptonshire features extensive gardens, a menagerie, and a children's play area, making it a great family day out.

Absolutely. The Lowick area, particularly in Northumberland, is excellent for hiking. You can find various trails, including easy and moderate options, near historical sites. For example, there are several routes around St Cuthbert's Cave, which is close to the castles. Explore more options in the Hiking around Lowick guide and the Easy hikes around Lowick guide.

The best time to visit is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer, making it ideal for exploring both the castles and surrounding areas. Some sites, like Etal Castle, may have limited opening hours during off-peak seasons, so it's always best to check specific castle websites before your visit.

Beyond the well-known sites, Barmoor Castle near Lowick, Northumberland, is a Grade II* listed country house built in a unique castellated Tudor style, offering a glimpse into early 19th-century estate architecture. In Northamptonshire, Drayton House is considered 'one of the best-kept secrets of the English country house world,' showcasing a rich blend of Medieval, Tudor, Elizabethan, and Baroque styles.

Visiting Holy Island (Lindisfarne) requires careful planning as it's accessible via a causeway only at low tide. You must check the tide times before traveling to ensure safe passage to and from the island. The castle itself is a National Trust property, offering stunning views, and you can also explore the historic Lindisfarne Priory and the Gertrude Jekyll Garden.

Yes, Etal Castle in Northumberland, managed by English Heritage, offers free admission. Visitors can wander among its ruins and imagine its past as a crucial border defense. Other sites like Fotheringhay Castle, while mostly earthworks, also allow free access to their historical grounds.

The Lowick area is excellent for various outdoor pursuits. Besides hiking, you can find mountain biking trails, particularly in Northumberland. Explore options in the MTB Trails around Lowick guide. The region also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying scenic views, especially around coastal areas like Holy Island.

Yes, Holy Island (Lindisfarne) features the beautiful Gertrude Jekyll Garden at Lindisfarne Castle. In Northamptonshire, Castle Ashby is renowned for its 35 acres of historic gardens, including romantic Italian gardens, a Butterfly garden, and unique glasshouses like the splendid Palm House.

Barmoor Castle near Lowick, Northumberland, stands out with its castellated Tudor style from 1801, blending classical and defensive aesthetics. Drayton House in Northamptonshire is a prime example of architectural evolution, featuring elements from Medieval, Tudor, Elizabethan, and rare English Baroque styles, including a unique spiral cantilever oak staircase.

While specific castle interior access for dogs can vary, many outdoor areas and grounds around castles are dog-friendly. For instance, the Gertrude Jekyll Garden at Lindisfarne Castle is listed as dog-friendly. It's always advisable to check the specific policies of each site before your visit, especially for indoor areas.

Fotheringhay Castle, though now mostly earthworks, was founded around 1100 AD as a Norman motte and bailey castle. Ford Castle was built around 1278, and Etal Castle dates back to the mid-14th century. Drayton House in Northamptonshire began construction in 1328, making it one of the oldest and most continuously inhabited historic houses in the region.