Twizel Castle: A Historic Border Stronghold Transformed
Explore Twizel Castle, a captivating medieval fortress transformed by Gothic revival, echoing centuries of border history in Northumberland.
Twizel Castle, located near Cornhill-on-Tweed in Northumberland, England, is a historic site with origins dating back to the 13th century. Originally a fortified hall house built by the Redel family, it evolved through centuries of conflict and ownership changes. The castle was notably fortified in the 15th century by the Heron family and later transformed into a Gothic Revival mansion by Sir Francis Blake in the late 18th century. Though now partly ruined, it remains a significant landmark reflecting the turbulent Anglo-Scottish border history.
A brief summary to Twizel Castle
- A698, Cornhill-on-Tweed, TD12 4UX, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the castle’s architectural details and surrounding landscape.
- Bring a camera to capture the striking Gothic Revival features and the scenic views of the Northumberland border countryside.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Twizel Old Bridge, reputed to be the longest single-span medieval bridge in Britain.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the castle can be uneven and partly overgrown.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car
Traveling by car from Berwick-upon-Tweed takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes via the A698. Parking near the castle is limited and may require roadside parking; check local signage for restrictions. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Berwick-upon-Tweed to Cornhill-on-Tweed with a journey time of around 45 to 60 minutes. Service frequency is limited, so check timetables in advance. From Cornhill, the castle is accessible by a 15-minute walk over uneven terrain.
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Walking
For walkers in the region, a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour hike from Cornhill-on-Tweed to Twizel Castle follows rural paths with some uneven ground. Suitable footwear is recommended. This route offers peaceful countryside views.
Twizel Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Twizel Castle
Medieval Origins and Early Fortifications
Twizel Castle began as a two-storey hall house, likely constructed by the Redel family, lords of Tillmouth, after acquiring the estate in 1272. William Redel, a prominent figure who served as constable of Norham and High Sheriff of Northumberland, is associated with the castle's early history. The masonry from this initial phase remains visible near the base of the north wall, marking the castle’s medieval core.15th Century Enhancements and Border Conflicts
In the 15th century, the Heron family took ownership and added significant fortifications, including a tower on the west wing site and a large internal kitchen fireplace. They also fortified the castle with a barmkin, a defensive enclosure typical of border strongholds. The castle suffered damage during Perkin Warbeck’s rebellion in 1496, after which it remained partly ruined. The Herons’ tenure reflects the castle’s role amid ongoing Anglo-Scottish border turbulence.Transition and Restoration under the Selby Family
By 1520, the estate passed to the Selby family, who began restoring the castle despite its decayed state. Records from 1561 describe the castle as partly ruined, but John and Margaret Selby initiated repairs that preserved its historical structure. This period marked a slow recovery from the conflicts that had left the castle vulnerable.18th Century Gothic Revival Transformation
In the late 18th century, Sir Francis Blake inherited the estate and undertook a dramatic transformation of Twizel Castle. He demolished the original tower and clad the building in Gothic Revival masonry, adding turreted wings connected by corridors to create separate access points to the hall and chambers. This architectural overhaul gave the castle its distinctive Gothic appearance, reflecting the period’s romantic fascination with medieval styles.Legacy and Present-Day Remains
Despite ambitious plans, the castle remained incomplete until the 1860s when Eleanor Stag Blake made further alterations to modernize the structure, including providing a ground-floor entrance hall. Much of the original medieval tower has been lost, with only minimal remains visible today. The distinctive red sandstone from the castle was repurposed by the railway company, leaving Twizel Castle as a partly ruined but evocative monument to Northumberland’s border history.Historical Significance and Cultural Context
Twizel Castle stands as a testament to the turbulent history of the Anglo-Scottish border region, witnessing centuries of conflict, rebellion, and architectural evolution. Its layered history—from medieval fortification to Gothic mansion—captures the shifting fortunes of noble families and the strategic importance of border strongholds. The castle’s proximity to Cornhill-on-Tweed, a village with deep historical roots, further enriches its cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Marjoribanks Monument
5.0 km
A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.
Broad Shiel
11.6 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Berwickshire High School
14.5 km
Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.
Berwick Bridge
14.6 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
14.7 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Royal Border Bridge
14.7 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Coxon's Tower
14.8 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Royal Tweed Bridge
15.0 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
15.0 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Cumberland Bastion
15.1 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
15.4 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Berwick Lighthouse
15.6 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort
16.9 km
Explore the ancient earthworks and panoramic views of Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort, a remarkable hillfort in the heart of Berwickshire's historic landscape.
Lamberton Skerrs
17.8 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Kelso
18.2 km
Discover Kelso’s medieval charm and rich heritage nestled in the scenic Scottish Borders’ Tweed Valley.
Unmissable attractions to see
Twizel Viaduct
1.1 km
Historic 19th-century six-arch railway viaduct near Cornhill-on-Tweed, blending Victorian engineering with scenic Northumberland countryside.
Duddo Five Stones
4.8 km
Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.
Norham Castle
4.8 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.
Coldstream Museum
5.4 km
Discover the rich border history and legendary Coldstream Guards regiment in the heart of Coldstream at this accessible, free-entry museum with vibrant exhibitions.
WALK THIS WAY ARMY SURPLUS, military antiques, collectibles & military museum
5.5 km
Discover authentic military antiques, collectibles, and a captivating museum in the heart of Coldstream’s historic army surplus shop.
Etal Castle
5.9 km
Explore Etal Castle, a captivating 14th-century border fortress steeped in history and scenic Northumberland charm.
The Hirsel Estate
6.0 km
Historic Scottish Borders estate with grand Georgian house, scenic gardens, craft workshops, and year-round walks near Coldstream.
The Ba' Green
6.1 km
Discover the Ba' Green, a unique Scottish meadow south of the Tweed, where tradition and border folklore shape a rare piece of Scotland.
Lazy Day Cottages
7.7 km
Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Lady Waterford Hall
8.7 km
Discover the stunning Pre-Raphaelite murals and Victorian heritage of Lady Waterford Hall, a unique village school turned historic community hub.
Ford & Etal Estates
8.7 km
Explore historic villages, scenic countryside, and warm hospitality at Ford & Etal Estates near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Union Bridge
9.2 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.
Paxton House
9.9 km
Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Manderston House
13.1 km
Explore Manderston House, an Edwardian masterpiece with the world’s only silver-plated staircase, set amid 56 acres of stunning Scottish Borders gardens.
The Border Mill
13.4 km
Discover bespoke fibre processing and vibrant artisan yarns at The Border Mill, a small-scale mill in the scenic Scottish Borders.
Essential places to dine
The Blue Bell Inn
5.8 km
A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.
The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant
6.3 km
A charming blend of traditional Scottish hospitality, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Borders.
The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen
10.9 km
A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Allanton Inn
11.0 km
A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill
12.8 km
A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.
The Black Bull Inn
13.4 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 Potting Shed Restaurant
13.7 km
A cosy, family-friendly restaurant in Duns offering fresh, hearty meals and warm hospitality within The Cheeklaw Centre.
Jim Clark Cafe Bistro
14.3 km
A charming bistro in Duns serving British and French-inspired dishes with home-baked treats and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Audela
14.8 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.
Limoncello
14.9 km
Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant
14.9 km
A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ivy 43
14.9 km
Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Amore Restaurant
14.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.
The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
15.0 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.
Restaurant 1782
16.3 km
Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ScotlandShop
13.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans and bespoke tailoring in Duns’ premier showroom, celebrating heritage with over 500 clan plaids.
Number 18 Shop
14.3 km
Explore Number 18 Shop in Duns for unique clothing, handcrafted candles, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry, perfect for souvenirs.
Bijoux
14.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Bijoux, a charming gift shop in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Loop Emporium
14.9 km
Discover unique vintage and upcycled fashion treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Loop Emporium.
Granny's Keepsakes
14.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Unique Antiques
14.9 km
Discover quirky, unique antiques in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at this charming Hide Hill shop.
The Seagull's Nest
14.9 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.
Artisans at Serendipity
15.0 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by local artists in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Derrants
15.0 km
Discover unique local gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Derrants.
No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store
15.0 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and local heritage within Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Woolmarket district.
The Good Gift Company
17.9 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in the welcoming heart of Kelso at The Good Gift Company, your boutique destination for special keepsakes.
Doreen Shepherd Designs
17.9 km
Discover bespoke elegance and timeless Scottish craftsmanship at Doreen Shepherd Designs in Kelso’s charming Scottish Borders.
Kelso Antiques Centre
18.0 km
Discover vintage treasures and rich history at Kelso Antiques Centre, a charming hub for collectors and curious visitors in the heart of Kelso.
Kitty & Gus
18.0 km
Discover Kelso’s vibrant boutique with colorful fashions, unique homewares, and bespoke soft furnishings in a welcoming, friendly atmosphere.
The Kelso Pottery
18.0 km
Discover unique handmade ceramics inspired by the Scottish Borders’ landscape at The Kelso Pottery, a charming artisan shop in Kelso.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BEST PUBLIC BAR
5.5 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.
The Radio Rooms
14.1 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Thatch
14.4 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 Barrels
14.8 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
The Curfew Micropub
14.8 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
Leaping Salmon
14.8 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Lindisfarne Inn
17.1 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
The Craw Inn
17.5 km
Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.
The Vibe
18.2 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 First & Last Inn
18.8 km
Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.
The Contented Sole
21.9 km
A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.
Ancrum Cross Keys
31.6 km
A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.
The Belter's Bar
32.6 km
Savor hearty meals and legendary burgers in Jedburgh’s lively and welcoming Belter's Bar.
Schooner Inn
35.6 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Star Inn
39.0 km
Historic 14th-century pub in Harbottle offering cozy rooms, excellent food, and a warm community atmosphere in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
