Dunstanburgh Castle: Majestic Coastal Ruins of Northumberland

Origins and Historical Significance

Dunstanburgh Castle was constructed between 1313 and 1322 by Thomas, the 2nd Earl of Lancaster, during a period of intense political rivalry with King Edward II. Unlike many castles built to defend borders or key routes, Dunstanburgh’s remote coastal location was chosen more for its symbolic power and as a refuge against Scottish raids. The castle later passed to John of Gaunt in the 1380s, who expanded its defenses with a second gatehouse and converted the original gatehouse into a keep, though his hurried construction used inferior stone that deteriorated quickly. The castle saw action during the Wars of the Roses, suffering cannon damage inflicted by Yorkist forces, from which it never fully recovered. By the early 17th century, as border conflicts waned, the castle was sold into private hands and gradually fell into ruin.

Architectural Highlights and Ruins

Today, Dunstanburgh Castle remains one of the largest and most evocative medieval fortresses in Northern England. Its most prominent feature is the massive twin-towered gatehouse, which still dominates the entrance and offers a glimpse into medieval military architecture. The castle’s curtain walls extend down to the shore, creating dramatic silhouettes against the sea. Another notable structure is the Lilburn Tower, perched along the northern wall; its unusual rectangular design contrasts with the typical rounded towers of the era and served as an observation post. Inside the large inner bailey, visitors can imagine the space once used for farming or livestock grazing within the castle’s protective walls.

Setting and Natural Surroundings

Perched on a rugged headland, Dunstanburgh Castle commands breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding countryside. The approach from Craster village involves a mostly flat 1.3-mile coastal walk that passes through farmland and offers opportunities to spot local wildlife such as seabirds, seals, and rockpool creatures. The nearby Queen Margaret’s Cove is a haven for redshanks, oystercatchers, and kittiwakes, adding to the natural allure. The ever-changing Northumberland weather paints the landscape in varying moods—from bright, clear skies illuminating the coastline to wild, stormy seas that enhance the castle’s dramatic atmosphere.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors can explore the castle ruins freely during daylight hours, with English Heritage managing the site and providing ticketed access to the grounds. Entry is free for English Heritage and National Trust members. Facilities near the castle include composting toilets, a small gift shop with guidebooks and souvenirs, and picnic areas. The castle is dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on leads. The walk to the castle is accessible to most visitors, though the terrain includes some uneven sections and natural rocky steps near the entrance. The castle’s keep features a steep winding staircase leading to panoramic views from the top tower, rewarding those who climb it with stunning vistas of sea and land.

Legends and Cultural Resonance

Dunstanburgh Castle is steeped in folklore and legend, including tales of a friendly ghost named Sir Guy the Seeker who is said to haunt the ruins. The castle’s long history as a symbol of power, refuge, and conflict resonates through its weathered stones, inviting visitors to imagine the lives and events that shaped medieval England. Its remote coastal location also inspired local stories, such as the naming of Queen Margaret’s Cove after Margaret of Anjou’s legendary escape to France in 1460.

Seasonal Highlights and Photography

The castle and its surroundings offer year-round appeal, with each season bringing unique experiences. Spring and summer bloom with wildflowers and active seabird colonies, while autumn and winter showcase dramatic skies and stormy seas, perfect for moody photography. Early morning and late afternoon light provide the best conditions for capturing the castle’s silhouette against the horizon. The site is also popular for astrophotography, with dark skies revealing the Milky Way and occasional aurora borealis.