North East England castles: a guide

Welcome to the North East of England, a land defined by its dramatic, unyielding coastlines, deep-wooded valleys and more historic fortifications than almost any other corner of Britain. For outdoor lovers touring in a campervan, motorhome, roof tent, or caravan, this region offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and historical discovery.

1. Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh, Northumberland

Bamburgh Castle. Member photo by Lauren Young

Perched dramatically on a volcanic dolerite crag overlooking the sweeping sands of the Northumberland coast, Bamburgh Castle is the absolute king of coastal fortresses. Once the royal seat of the ancient Kings of Northumbria, its Anglo-Saxon roots bleed into magnificent Norman architecture. It's an awe-inspiring sight as you approach along the coastal roads in your motorhome or campervan.

• Accessibility: The ground-level grounds and the spectacular staterooms are fully accessible via ramps. However, due to the castle's medieval topography, certain elevated towers and specific rocky pathways have steps and uneven terrain. Dedicated blue-badge parking is available at the main castle gates.
• Pets: Welcomed on the extensive grounds, battlements and the central courtyard (must be kept on a short lead). Only assistance dogs are permitted inside the staterooms.

Where can I stay near Bamburgh Castle? 

Stay at Berwick Seaview Club Campsite (19 mile away) or River Breamish Club Campsite (21 miles away). Both offer exceptional hardstanding pitches ideal for outfits of all sizes.

2. Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, Northumberland

Alnwick Castle. Member photo by Chris Taylor

Combining medieval grandeur with modern culture, Alnwick Castle is the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK. Renowned as the cinematic stand-in for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter films, it offers spectacular architectural tours, broomstick training and pristine state rooms. It's an essential stop for anyone touring the heart of Northumberland.

• Accessibility: Good accessibility overall. The main courtyards are cobbled but manageable and a dedicated lift provides wheelchair access to the magnificent State Rooms. Wheelchairs are available to borrow on-site (pre-booking highly recommended).
• Pets: Strictly assistance dogs only within the castle walls and grounds to protect the resident wildlife and historical assets. However, excellent dog-walking trails run adjacent to the castle along the River Aln.

Where can I stay near Alnwick Castle?

Stay at River Breamish Club Campsite (11 miles away). Tucked peacefully amid the foothills of the Cheviots, this site is a serene haven for caravans and motorhomes alike.

3. Dunstanburgh Castle, Craster, Alnwick, Northumberland

Dunstanburgh Castle. Member photo by Eric Ness

For those who truly love the great outdoors, Dunstanburgh Castle offers an unforgettable experience. Reached via a stunning, craggy 1.3-mile walk along the coastline from the fishing village of Craster, these skeletal 14th-century ruins rise like a dark crown from the sea cliffs. The raw, wind-swept atmosphere makes it one of the most romantic and evocative historic sites in Great Britain.

• Accessibility: Due to its isolated nature, there's no vehicular access. The 1.3-mile grass and stone coastal path from Craster is uneven, occasionally muddy and can be challenging for manual wheelchairs and those with limited mobility.
• Pets: Highly dog-friendly. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the entire site, making the coastal hike and castle exploration an exceptional day out for your four-legged companion.

Where can I stay near Dunstanburgh Castle? 

Stay at River Breamish Club Campsite (18 miles away). A spectacular base that makes transitioning from mountain valleys to rugged coastlines completely effortless.

4. Durham Castle, Durham

Sitting proudly on a rocky peninsula alongside the world-famous Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle forms part of a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Normans to protect the King-Bishops of Durham, this continuous fortress is now home to the students of University College Durham. Explore via fascinating guided tours that unlock a thousand years of continuous northern history.

• Accessibility: Given its medieval structure and multi-level layout, wheelchair access is limited to the ground floor buildings, including the Great Hall. There are numerous stairs and steep cobblestones throughout the historic courtyard.
• Pets: Only assistance dogs are permitted inside the castle buildings and courtyard due to its dual use as an active university campus and heritage site.

Where can I stay near Durham Castle? 

Stay at Durham Grange Club Campsite. Exceptionally level and open, this popular site provides immediate, easy access to the city via local park-and-ride schemes, perfect for leaving your large motorhome secure on its pitch while you explore.

5. Barnard Castle, Scar Top, Barnard Castle, Durham

Overlooking the racing waters of the River Tees, Barnard Castle sits in a charming, historic market town of the same name. Built by the Bernard de Balliol family in the 12th century, the castle features a fantastic circular keep and breathtaking views across the Tees Gorge. It is a haven for hikers, antique hunters and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the dramatic scenery of the Durham Dales.

• Accessibility: The site is largely accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, featuring smooth, well-maintained grass pathways through the main wards. The castle's exhibition room and shop are step-free.
• Pets: Dogs on leads are warmly welcomed throughout the entire castle grounds and ruins, giving you the perfect excuse to explore the surrounding woodland trails together.

Where can I stay near Barnard Castle?

Stay at Teesdale Barnard Castle Club Campsite (1 mile away). You can comfortably park your campervan, caravan, or motorhome and enjoy a gorgeous 15-minute stroll into town through the deep forest pathways.

6. Raby Castle, Staindrop, Darlington, County Durham

Surrounded by a scenic 200-acre deer park, Raby Castle is one of the most complete and imposing medieval fortresses in England. Built by the powerful Nevill family in the 14th century, it boasts an incredible interior, a vibrant walled garden, and the newly developed 'Rising' heritage project. Its expansive grounds make it an incredible destination for visitors who want to pair historical discovery with hours of open-air wandering.

• Accessibility: The grounds, walled gardens, coach house and visitor areas are fully accessible with smooth tarmac or consolidated gravel pathways. Access to the main castle interior includes a flight of stairs, though a virtual tour option is available for visitors with limited mobility. Disabled parking is clearly marked near the main entrance.
• Pets: Welcomed on leads throughout the sprawling parkland, walled gardens, and outdoor dining areas. Only assistance dogs are allowed inside the castle itself.

Where can I stay near Raby Castle?

Stay at Teesdale Barnard Castle Club Campsite (8 miles away). A quick, stress-free drive down the scenic A688 makes it perfectly accessible for all larger touring outfits.

Top Tips for Club Members Touring the North East:

1. Pre-Book Your Pitch: Caravan and Motorhome Club sites across Northumberland and County Durham fill up quickly during peak walking season, be sure to secure your pitch in advance.
2. Mind the Coastal B-Roads: If you're navigating a large twin-axle caravan or a large coachbuilt motorhome, stick to major routes like the A1 and A697 before turning off onto local castle lanes.

Pack for the Elements: the weather can switch from bright coastal sunshine to a dramatic sea fret (fog) in minutes. Keep your hiking boots and waterproofs by the habitation door!