Bamburgh Castle: Majestic Coastal Fortress of Northumbria
Explore Bamburgh Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with royal history, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural legacy on England’s Northumberland coast.
Bamburgh Castle, perched dramatically on the Northumberland coast, is a historic fortress with over 1,400 years of history. Once the royal seat of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria, it features 14 grand rooms including the spectacular King’s Hall, extensive battlements, and an aviation museum. The castle offers breathtaking sea views, rich heritage displays, and a connection to the popular ‘The Last Kingdom’ series, making it a captivating destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Bamburgh Castle
- Bamburgh, NE69 7DF, GB
- +441668214208
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book tickets online to enjoy fast-track entry and secure your visit, especially during peak seasons and special events.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes as exploring the castle and grounds involves walking on varied terrain and some steep inclines.
- Take advantage of the shuttle buggy service if you have reduced mobility; however, some castle areas have stairs and narrow passages.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the castle grounds, but please dispose of litter responsibly or take it home with you.
- Visit during the festive season to experience the enchanting Twilight Opening with Christmas installations illuminating the castle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Bamburgh Castle typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours from Newcastle upon Tyne. Parking is available on-site for £6, with a shuttle buggy service to the castle entrance for visitors with reduced mobility. Note that coach parking is not available at the castle; coaches must use the nearby Northumberland County Council car park.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Bamburgh village with nearby towns such as Alnwick and Berwick-upon-Tweed, with travel times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. From the village, the castle is a 15-minute uphill walk. Bus frequency varies seasonally, so check current timetables.
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Train
The nearest train station is Alnmouth, about 20 km away. From Alnmouth, take a local bus or taxi to Bamburgh Castle, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Train services run regularly from Newcastle and Edinburgh.
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Walking
For active visitors staying in Bamburgh village, the castle is accessible on foot via a steep but scenic 15-minute walk. Suitable footwear is recommended due to the incline and uneven paths.
Bamburgh Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bamburgh Castle
A Storied Stronghold on the Northumberland Coast
Bamburgh Castle stands as a commanding fortress overlooking the North Sea, its origins tracing back over a millennium to the era of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria. This iconic site evolved from a wooden palisade into an imposing stone castle, witnessing centuries of royal intrigue, warfare, and restoration. The castle was notably the first in England to succumb to cannon fire during the Wars of the Roses, marking its significance in military history.Architectural Grandeur and Historic Interiors
Visitors can explore fourteen meticulously preserved rooms, including the magnificent King’s Hall, which houses over 3,000 artifacts such as fine art, antique furniture, porcelain, and medieval relics. The state rooms reveal the castle’s layered history through their opulent décor and informative displays. The Armstrong and Aviation Museum, located in the former Victorian laundry, showcases remarkable aviation artifacts, including engines and a Spitfire wreckage, highlighting the legacy of Lord Armstrong, the castle’s influential 19th-century owner.Scenic Views and Coastal Surroundings
Perched 150 feet above the beach, the castle offers panoramic views stretching to the Farne Islands, Holy Island, and the Cheviot Hills. Its extensive battlements provide stunning vantage points to appreciate the rugged coastline and the village of Bamburgh below. The castle grounds cover nine acres of accessible pathways, gardens, and historic structures, inviting leisurely exploration amidst breathtaking natural beauty.Connection to Popular Culture and Events
Bamburgh Castle’s dramatic setting and rich history inspired the ‘The Last Kingdom’ book series and Netflix adaptation, with themed tours and exhibitions celebrating this legacy. Throughout the year, the castle hosts special events including live jousts, Viking workshops, and festive Christmas installations that illuminate the castle in seasonal splendor. These programs enrich the visitor experience by blending history with immersive storytelling.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open daily from 10am to 4pm with last admission at 3pm, Bamburgh Castle welcomes guests with a range of amenities including a café, takeaway kiosks, and a gift shop. The site is cashless, accepting card payments only. Accessibility is supported by a shuttle buggy service from the car park and largely step-free grounds, though the castle’s steep access road and internal stairs may limit mobility in some areas. Dogs are permitted on the grounds but not inside the buildings.Legacy and Stewardship
Still privately owned by the Armstrong family, Bamburgh Castle remains a living heritage site, carefully maintained to preserve its historical and cultural significance. Its blend of ancient architecture, rich collections, and stunning coastal environment make it a treasured landmark and a must-visit destination for those drawn to Britain’s medieval past and scenic grandeur.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
1.7 km
Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.
Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions
2.2 km
Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.
Beadnell Harbour
8.4 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Berwick Lighthouse
24.4 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Coxon's Tower
25.3 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Berwick Town Walls
25.4 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Town Hall
25.6 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Royal Tweed Bridge
25.7 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Bridge
25.7 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Cumberland Bastion
25.9 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
26.1 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Royal Border Bridge
26.3 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Broad Shiel
27.5 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Warkworth Hermitage
29.7 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Sundial
31.5 km
Explore the Sundial in Amble, a unique tourist attraction blending history, art, and stunning coastal views in a serene setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
RNLI Grace Darling Museum
0.6 km
Discover the inspiring story of Victorian heroine Grace Darling and her daring sea rescue at this intimate museum near Bamburgh Castle.
Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street
4.7 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Seahouses, open long hours with a great range of essentials and local products.
National Trust - Farne Islands
5.6 km
A breathtaking wildlife sanctuary off Northumberland’s coast, famed for puffins, seals, historic lighthouses, and rich cultural heritage.
Farne Islands
5.8 km
A breathtaking archipelago off Northumberland’s coast, home to vibrant seabird colonies, playful seals, and rich maritime history.
North Wames
6.1 km
Discover the rugged beauty and vibrant wildlife of North Wames, a pristine sanctuary in the Farne Islands off England’s Northumberland coast.
Longstone Lighthouse
7.3 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse on the Farne Islands, famed for Grace Darling’s heroic 1838 rescue and stunning coastal wildlife cruises.
Lindisfarne Castle
8.2 km
A dramatic Tudor fortress turned Edwardian retreat, Lindisfarne Castle offers stunning coastal views and historic charm on Northumberland’s iconic Holy Island.
Beadnell Bay Beach
8.2 km
Discover Beadnell Bay Beach’s golden sands, unique west-facing harbor, and tranquil wildlife haven on the stunning Northumberland coast.
Lindisfarne Heritage Centre
9.0 km
Explore Holy Island’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits on history, nature, and culture at the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre.
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
9.2 km
A wild, tidal landscape of mudflats, dunes and saltmarsh, home to wintering birds, seals and rare orchids on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
9.4 km
Explore the wild beauty and rich heritage of England’s dramatic Northumberland Coast National Landscape.
Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland
9.6 km
Discover Preston Tower, a medieval pele tower set in scenic Northumberland gardens, perfect for history lovers and unforgettable weddings.
Holy Island
9.8 km
Discover Holy Island’s rich spiritual heritage, dramatic tidal landscapes, and vibrant wildlife sanctuary off England’s Northumberland coast.
National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave
12.4 km
Discover the tranquil sandstone refuge where Saint Cuthbert’s legacy and Northumberland’s spiritual history converge amidst stunning countryside.
Heritage Walks Northumberland
12.7 km
Explore Northumberland’s hidden heritage on scenic guided walks blending history, nature, and local stories in stunning countryside settings.
Essential places to dine
The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh
0.5 km
Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed, elegant setting with stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland coast.
Insieme Seahouses
4.6 km
Experience generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Seahouses.
The Craster Arms
7.4 km
Historic gastropub and hotel blending medieval heritage with vibrant coastal charm in the heart of Beadnell village.
The Landing, Beadnell Bay
8.1 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Landing, Beadnell Bay’s welcoming spot for classic fish and chips and more.
The Ship Inn
12.0 km
Historic seaside gastropub with home-brewed ales and fresh seafood, offering rustic charm and stunning Northumberland coast views.
Percy Arms Hotel
14.4 km
Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.
The Jolly Fisherman Inn
16.9 km
A charming coastal inn in Craster serving fresh, traditional seafood with stunning harbour views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Bull Inn
17.7 km
A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.
Milan Restaurant
20.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.
The Dirty Bottles
21.6 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
The Treehouse Restaurant
21.6 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
21.8 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Adam and Eve
21.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Sonnet Restaurant
21.9 km
A 14-course poetic journey through Northumberland’s finest produce, served in an intimate, literary-inspired Alnwick dining room.
The Bosk
23.3 km
Rustic British cuisine and cozy charm in Alnwick’s tranquil countryside, perfect for relaxed dining and special gatherings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Country House Gifts & Gallery
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and high-quality treasures in the heart of historic Bamburgh at Country House Gifts & Gallery.
Farne Gifts
4.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Farne Gifts, Seahouses’ charming gift shop with a welcoming atmosphere and year-round appeal.
Drift
4.7 km
Discover Drift, a family-run coastal gift shop in Seahouses offering unique yarns and craft goodies inspired by Northumberland’s seaside charm.
National Trust Shop
4.7 km
Discover charming puffin souvenirs and local crafts at the National Trust Shop in Seahouses, supporting conservation of the Farne Islands.
Raggy Dolls
4.7 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in a friendly boutique at the heart of charming Seahouses village.
North Shore Gifts
4.7 km
Discover handmade jewellery and unique coastal gifts at North Shore Gifts, a welcoming boutique celebrating Northumberland’s artisanal spirit.
The National Trust Shop
8.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
21.6 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
A World Of Difference
21.6 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
Marilyn & Melrose
21.6 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Robinson's
21.8 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
21.8 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Notes of Northumberland
22.7 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Willowburn Retail Park
23.1 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Jane & Harry
25.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Schooner Inn
4.8 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Joiners Arms
11.1 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Lindisfarne Inn
14.7 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
Black Swan Alnwick
21.6 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
Harry's Bar
21.6 km
A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.
The Queens Head
21.8 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
Tanners Arms Alnwick
21.9 km
A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.
The Sun Inn
25.2 km
A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.
The Red Lion Inn
25.3 km
Charming coastal pub and cozy B&B in Alnmouth, famed for wood-fired pizzas, local ales, and warm hospitality just steps from the beach.
The Radio Rooms
25.4 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Curfew Micropub
25.6 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The Barrels
25.7 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
Leaping Salmon
25.8 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Thatch
25.9 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 Lounge Bar
31.6 km
A quirky and lively cocktail and wine bar in Amble, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BedRocks
25.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
25.8 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
36.6 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
The Royal British Legion
45.7 km
Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.
Dance Delicious
48.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
Knightrider Discos
50.8 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
Nothing
60.5 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
62.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Warehouse Nightclub
68.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
68.9 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
The Border Club
70.6 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
70.8 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Cosmic Ballroom
71.0 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
World HQ
71.0 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Sinners
71.1 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- 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
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly