Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
Walk the most complete Elizabethan ramparts in England, where medieval castle ruins meet panoramic views of Berwick and the River Tweed.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts encompass the remains of a medieval castle and the most complete Elizabethan bastioned town defences in England. These historic fortifications, built and updated from the 12th to 18th centuries, surround the entire town and offer panoramic views of the River Tweed, the sea, and the Georgian townscape. Visitors can walk the full circuit of ramparts, exploring the military heritage of a town that changed hands multiple times during Anglo-Scottish conflicts.
A brief summary to Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
- Parade, Berwick-upon-Tweed, TD15 1DF, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as some rampart sections have steep, unguarded drops.
- Visit Berwick Barracks for exhibitions and refreshments during your ramparts walk.
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the ramparts and enjoy the views.
- Access the ramparts from multiple points around town; look for brown signage.
- Combine your visit with nearby historic sites like Norham Castle for a full border heritage experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train
Berwick-upon-Tweed railway station is adjacent to the castle and ramparts, with frequent services from Edinburgh and Newcastle. Travel times range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on origin. The station is accessible and offers step-free access to the site.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Berwick town center with nearby villages and attractions. Bus stops are within a 10-minute walk of the ramparts. Services run regularly but may be limited on Sundays and public holidays. Tickets cost approximately £2–£5.
-
Car
Public car parks are available around Berwick town, with charges applying. Parking near the ramparts requires a 5 to 10-minute walk. Roads are well signposted, but parking spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
-
Walking
The ramparts are accessible on foot from various points in Berwick town. Walking routes are mostly flat but include some uneven surfaces and steps. Disabled access is available at certain points, though caution is advised due to steep drops in some areas.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
A Fortress Shaped by Border History
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s castle and ramparts stand as a testament to the town’s turbulent history on the Anglo-Scottish border. Founded in the 12th century by Scottish King David I, the original medieval castle was a key stronghold in centuries of warfare. The town itself changed hands between England and Scotland numerous times, rivaling Jerusalem in the number of sieges endured. While much of the castle was demolished to make way for the railway station, fragments remain alongside the ramparts, preserving the martial spirit of the site.Elizabethan Military Innovation
The ramparts visible today date primarily from the Elizabethan era, begun in 1558 amidst fears of French invasion. These Renaissance-style fortifications are among the most complete in England, featuring arrow-shaped bastions designed to withstand artillery fire. The walls encircle the town over a two-mile circuit, with additions and updates continuing through the 17th and 18th centuries, including gun placements from the English Civil War and Jacobite periods. The Lord’s Mount, a semi-circular gun emplacement from Henry VIII’s reign, remains a highlight.Walking the Ramparts: A Panoramic Experience
Visitors can walk the entire circuit of the ramparts, gaining breathtaking views of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic streets, the River Tweed, and the North Sea coastline. The walk is enhanced by detailed interpretation boards at key points, explaining the defensive features and historical context. The adjacent Berwick Barracks, one of England’s first purpose-built barracks, houses exhibitions and a summer art gallery, adding cultural depth to the military heritage.Architectural and Urban Legacy
The ramparts and castle ruins integrate with the town’s Georgian architecture and waterfront, creating a unique blend of military and civilian history. The walls have been adapted for peaceful use, with areas serving as football pitches, playgrounds, and golf courses. The town’s three iconic bridges over the Tweed are visible from the walls, linking the historic fortifications to the surrounding landscape.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The ramparts are accessible via several points around the town, with disabled access available. While some sections feature steep, unguarded drops, care is advised. The site is free to enter and open daily from 10:00 to 16:00. Nearby facilities include restrooms and a shop at Berwick Barracks. Public parking is available in the town, though charges apply, and the castle is conveniently adjacent to Berwick railway station.Continuing the Heritage Journey
Beyond the ramparts, visitors can explore other historic sites nearby, such as Norham Castle and Etal Castle, enriching the experience of Northumberland’s border history. Annual events like the Berwick Heritage Open Days offer deeper engagement with the town’s past through guided tours and access to normally closed historic buildings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Royal Border Bridge
0.3 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Cumberland Bastion
0.3 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
0.4 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Royal Tweed Bridge
0.6 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Town Hall
0.6 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Berwick Bridge
0.7 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Town Walls
1.0 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Coxon's Tower
1.0 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Berwick Lighthouse
1.9 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Broad Shiel
3.5 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Lamberton Skerrs
6.2 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Visit Berwickshire Coast
12.1 km
Explore the Berwickshire Coast: A stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns perfect for a memorable getaway.
Scoutscroft Leisure Park | Verdant Leisure
15.5 km
Relax by the stunning Berwickshire coast with cozy self-catering lodges, pet-friendly amenities, and seaside adventures at Scoutscroft Leisure Park.
Marjoribanks Monument
20.0 km
A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.
Berwickshire High School
21.7 km
Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.
Unmissable attractions to see
King's Own Scottish Borderers Regimental Museum
0.7 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the King's Own Scottish Borderers in Berwick's historic barracks museum.
Berwick-Upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard
0.7 km
Explore the historic 18th-century Berwick Barracks, a fortress of England’s border heritage with panoramic views and rich military exhibitions.
Berwick Museum and Art Gallery
0.7 km
Discover Berwick’s rich history and art treasures within the atmospheric Berwick Barracks at this engaging museum and gallery.
Berwick Boat Trips
0.8 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed from the water on scenic boat trips blending wildlife, history, and stunning river and sea views.
Red Cliffs in Berwick-upon-Tweed
1.4 km
Experience breathtaking red sandstone cliffs and stunning coastal views just north of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
England / Scotland Border
4.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the England/Scotland border in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a must-visit for every tourist.
Paxton House
6.5 km
Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Union Bridge
6.5 km
Walk or cycle across the world’s oldest vehicular suspension bridge, a stunning 1820 engineering landmark linking England and Scotland over the River Tweed.
Lazy Day Cottages
9.6 km
Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Norham Castle
10.6 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.
Duddo Five Stones
11.6 km
Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.
Eyemouth Museum
11.9 km
Discover Eyemouth’s rich maritime heritage and community stories in this charming coastal museum with interactive exhibits and a welcoming atmosphere.
Eyemouth Beach
12.1 km
A sandy, dog-friendly bay by Eyemouth Harbour, offering rockpools, seal watching, and dramatic North Sea waves on the scenic Scottish Borders coast.
Milldown Bay
14.9 km
Discover Milldown Bay’s tranquil shores, vibrant marine life, and scenic coastal paths in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Twizel Castle
15.0 km
Explore Twizel Castle, a captivating medieval fortress transformed by Gothic revival, echoing centuries of border history in Northumberland.
Essential places to dine
The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
0.0 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.
Audela
0.6 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant
0.7 km
A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Amore Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.
Ivy 43
0.8 km
Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Limoncello
0.8 km
Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.
Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill
2.3 km
A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.
Restaurant 1782
3.6 km
Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen
6.0 km
A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Heathers Restaurant
11.5 km
Fresh seafood and harbour views in a historic golf clubhouse overlooking Eyemouth's working waterfront.
Oblo
11.9 km
Stylish harbourfront bistro in Eyemouth serving fresh seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ship Restaurant & Bar
11.9 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Eyemouth, serving fresh local seafood and hearty fare in a lively, dog-friendly harbour-side setting.
Allanton Inn
12.9 km
A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The Black Bull Inn
13.9 km
A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.
The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant
17.1 km
A charming blend of traditional Scottish hospitality, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Borders.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Seagull's Nest
0.4 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.
Loop Emporium
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage and upcycled fashion treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Loop Emporium.
Bijoux
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Bijoux, a charming gift shop in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Artisans at Serendipity
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by local artists in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Derrants
0.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Derrants.
Unique Antiques
0.7 km
Discover quirky, unique antiques in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at this charming Hide Hill shop.
No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and local heritage within Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Woolmarket district.
Granny's Keepsakes
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
CJR Gifts & Designs
15.5 km
Handcrafted artisan treasures celebrating the creative spirit of the Scottish Borders.
The National Trust Shop
17.4 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
ScotlandShop
20.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans and bespoke tailoring in Duns’ premier showroom, celebrating heritage with over 500 clan plaids.
Number 18 Shop
20.9 km
Explore Number 18 Shop in Duns for unique clothing, handcrafted candles, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry, perfect for souvenirs.
Country House Gifts & Gallery
26.2 km
Discover unique gifts and high-quality treasures in the heart of historic Bamburgh at Country House Gifts & Gallery.
Farne Gifts
30.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Farne Gifts, Seahouses’ charming gift shop with a welcoming atmosphere and year-round appeal.
Drift
30.9 km
Discover Drift, a family-run coastal gift shop in Seahouses offering unique yarns and craft goodies inspired by Northumberland’s seaside charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Leaping Salmon
0.5 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Barrels
0.7 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
The Thatch
0.7 km
A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.
The Curfew Micropub
0.7 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The Radio Rooms
1.3 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The First & Last Inn
8.6 km
Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.
The Contented Sole
12.0 km
A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.
The Lindisfarne Inn
12.7 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
The Craw Inn
16.0 km
Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.
BEST PUBLIC BAR
20.5 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.
Schooner Inn
31.1 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Vibe
33.1 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
The Joiners Arms
37.0 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Bear & Bull
40.5 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming bar and café on Dunbar’s High Street, offering quality food, drinks, and a warm local atmosphere.
Black Swan Alnwick
44.2 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
0.5 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
BedRocks
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Nothing
46.9 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
49.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Warehouse Nightclub
53.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
53.0 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
60.1 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
The Border Club
62.1 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Base Nightclub
62.4 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
62.8 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Borders Blues club
68.1 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Borders Blues Club, where the best of British blues music comes alive in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
68.1 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
Union Club
68.5 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
White House Unique Social Club
70.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local culture at the White House Unique Social Club in Ashington, a must-visit bar for an unforgettable night out.
R. A. O. B Club
71.1 km
Discover the R. A. O. B Club, a vibrant bar and social club in Ashington offering friendly service, a great drink selection, and a lively atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
