Etal Castle: Medieval Border Fortress in Northumberland

Explore Etal Castle, a captivating 14th-century border fortress steeped in history and scenic Northumberland charm.

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Etal Castle, built in the mid-14th century by Robert Manners, is a small but strategically important medieval fortress located in the village of Etal near the River Till in Northumberland. Originally constructed to defend against Scottish raids, it features a tower house, gatehouse, curtain walls, and corner towers. The castle played a role in historic border conflicts, including the Battle of Flodden in 1513, before falling into disrepair after the union of the English and Scottish crowns in 1603. Today, it offers a scenic heritage site ideal for family visits.

A brief summary to Etal Castle

68, Cornhill-on-Tweed, TD12 4TN, GB
+443703331181
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Budget
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 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

Wear sturdy footwear as the castle grounds are grassed and can be slippery, especially when wet.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings by the River Till and Etal Estates.
Visit nearby historic sites such as the Flodden Battlefields and Ford Castle to enrich your experience.
Access the castle via the rear entrance if the main portcullis is closed due to weather conditions.

Getting There

Car

Driving from central Alnwick to Etal Castle takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes via the A1 and B6353. Parking is available on site. Note that rural roads may be narrow and winding, and mobile signal can be patchy.
Bus

Local bus services connect Alnwick and Wooler to Cornhill-on-Tweed village, about 2 km from Etal Castle. From the village, a 25-minute walk over uneven terrain leads to the castle. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance. No direct bus to the castle.
Walking

For walkers staying in Etal village, the castle is accessible on foot via a 10-minute walk over grass and uneven ground. The terrain can be slippery when wet and is not suitable for wheelchairs.

Etal Castle location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Etal Castle

Origins and Strategic Importance

Etal Castle was established in the mid-14th century by Robert Manners, a local lord who fortified his manor to protect against frequent Scottish raids. Positioned by a ford over the River Till, the castle's location was critical for controlling movement along the Anglo-Scottish border. The site evolved from a timber hall to a stone fortalice and then a small castle with a tower house, gatehouse, curtain walls, and corner towers. The Manners family held the estate for over 300 years, reflecting the castle's role as both a defensive stronghold and noble residence.

Role in Border Conflicts and the Battle of Flodden

Etal Castle was directly involved in the turbulent Anglo-Scottish border wars. In 1513, it was captured by the invading Scots under King James IV just before the pivotal Battle of Flodden, where the Scots suffered a catastrophic defeat. After the battle, the Scottish artillery was stored temporarily at Etal before being taken to London. The castle served as a military garrison and defensive post during intermittent border skirmishes, including the War of the Rough Wooing in the mid-16th century.

Decline After the Union of the Crowns

Following the 1603 union of the English and Scottish crowns under James VI and I, the strategic necessity for border fortresses like Etal diminished sharply. The castle fell into disrepair as raiding ceased and military focus shifted elsewhere. By the mid-16th century, reports described the castle as barely habitable. Eventually, it passed into private ownership and became a picturesque ruin, emblematic of the region's turbulent medieval past.

Architectural Features and Setting

The castle’s surviving structures include a robust tower house, a fortified gatehouse, and curtain walls with corner towers, all built from local stone. Its compact design reflects its dual role as a defensive site and noble home. Set within the charming village of Etal, the castle overlooks the River Till and is surrounded by green, uneven grassland typical of the Northumberland border countryside, offering visitors a tranquil and scenic experience.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Today, Etal Castle is managed by English Heritage and provides an atmospheric glimpse into medieval border life. The site is family-friendly and ideal for picnics in the surrounding grounds. Nearby historic sites such as the Flodden Battlefields and Ford Castle enrich the visitor experience. While the castle grounds are grassed and can be slippery when wet, access is available via a rear entrance, though wheelchair access is limited. Seasonal toilets and parking are available nearby, and dogs on leads are welcome.

Preservation and Cultural Significance

Etal Castle stands as a testament to the complex history of the Anglo-Scottish border region. Its preservation allows insight into medieval military architecture and the social history of the Manners family and their role in border defense. The castle is part of a broader heritage landscape that includes other castles and battlefields, highlighting the area's significance in English and Scottish history. Continued care by heritage organizations ensures that Etal remains a valuable cultural and educational resource.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Marjoribanks Monument

8.0 km

A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.

Broad Shiel

13.1 km

Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.

Berwick Town Walls

15.1 km

Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.

Coxon's Tower

15.1 km

Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.

Berwick Bridge

15.2 km

A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Town Hall

15.5 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 Border Bridge

15.5 km

Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.

Royal Tweed Bridge

15.5 km

A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.

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.

Cumberland Bastion

15.7 km

Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.

Lord's Mount

16.0 km

Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.

Lamberton Skerrs

20.2 km

Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.

Berwickshire High School

20.4 km

Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.

Kelso

20.5 km

Discover Kelso’s medieval charm and rich heritage nestled in the scenic Scottish Borders’ Tweed Valley.

Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort

22.7 km

Explore the ancient earthworks and panoramic views of Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort, a remarkable hillfort in the heart of Berwickshire's historic landscape.

Unmissable attractions to see

Lady Waterford Hall

2.8 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

2.9 km

Explore historic villages, scenic countryside, and warm hospitality at Ford & Etal Estates near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Duddo Five Stones

4.4 km

Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.

Twizel Castle

5.9 km

Explore Twizel Castle, a captivating medieval fortress transformed by Gothic revival, echoing centuries of border history in Northumberland.

Twizel Viaduct

6.4 km

Historic 19th-century six-arch railway viaduct near Cornhill-on-Tweed, blending Victorian engineering with scenic Northumberland countryside.

The Ba' Green

8.0 km

Discover the Ba' Green, a unique Scottish meadow south of the Tweed, where tradition and border folklore shape a rare piece of Scotland.

Coldstream Museum

8.2 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

8.3 km

Discover authentic military antiques, collectibles, and a captivating museum in the heart of Coldstream’s historic army surplus shop.

WALK THIS WAY ARMY SURPLUS, military antiques, collectibles & military museum

Norham Castle

8.5 km

Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.

The Hirsel Estate

8.7 km

Historic Scottish Borders estate with grand Georgian house, scenic gardens, craft workshops, and year-round walks near Coldstream.

Gefrin

8.8 km

Explore the ancient royal palace of Northumbria’s Anglo-Saxon kings, where history, culture, and whisky unite in a scenic Northumberland setting.

Lazy Day Cottages

11.7 km

Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Union Bridge

11.8 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

12.7 km

Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

13.9 km

Discover the tranquil sandstone refuge where Saint Cuthbert’s legacy and Northumberland’s spiritual history converge amidst stunning countryside.

Essential places to dine

The Blue Bell Inn

1.8 km

A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.

The Black Bull Inn

8.7 km

A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.

The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant

12.2 km

A charming blend of traditional Scottish hospitality, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Borders.

Milan Restaurant

13.0 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

13.5 km

A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.

The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen

13.8 km

A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Audela

15.3 km

Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.

Limoncello

15.3 km

Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.

Ivy 43

15.4 km

Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

15.4 km

A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Amore Restaurant

15.4 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

15.7 km

Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.

Allanton Inn

16.1 km

A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.

Percy Arms Hotel

17.0 km

Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.

Restaurant 1782

18.1 km

Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Discover vintage treasures and rich history at Kelso Antiques Centre, a charming hub for collectors and curious visitors in the heart of Kelso.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

BEST PUBLIC BAR

8.4 km

A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.

The Lindisfarne Inn

13.1 km

Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.

The Radio Rooms

14.5 km

A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.

The Thatch

15.0 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

15.3 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

15.3 km

A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.

Leaping Salmon

15.4 km

A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.

The Vibe

20.5 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

21.8 km

Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.

The Craw Inn

22.6 km

Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.

The Contented Sole

25.2 km

A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.

Schooner Inn

30.4 km

A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.

Ancrum Cross Keys

33.1 km

A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.

The Belter's Bar

33.3 km

Savor hearty meals and legendary burgers in Jedburgh’s lively and welcoming Belter's Bar.

The Joiners Arms

33.9 km

A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

BedRocks

15.4 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

15.4 km

Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.

Nothing

35.5 km

Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.

Morven

38.0 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.

Warehouse Nightclub

43.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.

The Indigo Rooms

43.3 km

Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.

The Border Club

48.4 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

48.7 km

Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.

Square One

49.1 km

Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.

The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club

51.8 km

A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.

The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club

Borders Blues club

59.2 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

59.2 km

A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.

Union Club

59.5 km

A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.

Knightrider Discos

61.4 km

Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.

White House Unique Social Club

61.6 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.

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Etal Castle: Medieval Border Fortress in Northumberland

A brief summary to Etal Castle

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus

Walking

Etal Castle location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Etal Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Etal Castle

Origins and Strategic Importance

Role in Border Conflicts and the Battle of Flodden

Decline After the Union of the Crowns

Architectural Features and Setting

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Preservation and Cultural Significance

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Marjoribanks Monument

Broad Shiel

Berwick Town Walls

Coxon's Tower

Berwick Bridge

Town Hall

Royal Border Bridge

Royal Tweed Bridge

Berwick Lighthouse

Cumberland Bastion

Lord's Mount

Lamberton Skerrs

Berwickshire High School

Kelso

Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort

Unmissable attractions to see

Lady Waterford Hall

Ford & Etal Estates

Duddo Five Stones

Twizel Castle

Twizel Viaduct

The Ba' Green

Coldstream Museum

WALK THIS WAY ARMY SURPLUS, military antiques, collectibles & military museum

Norham Castle

The Hirsel Estate

Gefrin

Lazy Day Cottages

Union Bridge

Paxton House

National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

Essential places to dine

The Blue Bell Inn

The Black Bull Inn

The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant

Milan Restaurant

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen

Audela

Limoncello

Ivy 43

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

Amore Restaurant

The Castle Hotel & Restaurant

Allanton Inn

Percy Arms Hotel

Restaurant 1782

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Granny's Keepsakes

Unique Antiques

Bijoux

Loop Emporium

No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store

Artisans at Serendipity

Derrants

The Seagull's Nest

ScotlandShop

The Good Gift Company

Doreen Shepherd Designs