Top 6 Castles around Ellington And Linton
Best castles around Ellington And Linton are situated in Northumberland, a county renowned for its rich history and numerous impressive castles. Visitors staying in Ellington and Linton have access to several outstanding examples of medieval architecture and historical sites within a reasonable distance. This region offers a diverse landscape for exploring historical fortifications.
Best castles around Ellington And Linton
- The most popular castles is Bothal Castle, a viewpoint that offers fantastic views of the ruin from the village of…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Bothal Castle
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St Mary Magdalene Church
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The parish church dates back to the late 12th century and was remodeled in the 13th century, likely after the village was burned by King John …
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Mitford Castle Ruins
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Cockle Park Tower
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morpethherald.co.uk/news/mysteries-and-theories-about-the-tower-1-8287970
photos from castleuk.net/castle_lists_north/81/cockle2.html
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Creswell Pele Tower
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Tips from the Community
Fantastic views of the Bothal Castle ruin from the village of Bothal (old English for dwelling). Well worth a stop to take in the magnificent castle, though be warned, you're in a bit of a dip, so it's a climb out from both sides.
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Bothal Castle is an impressive building with a rich history. It was originally built in the12th century, but transformed into its current form in 1343. It's a private residence, and therefore not accessible to the public.
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History: Mitford Castle dates back to the late 12th century, initially documented in 1138. It served various strategic roles, including being seized by King John in 1215 and later occupied by the Scots. By 1323, it was abandoned due to extensive damage. The site includes a motte and bailey, with the motte later converted into a shell keep—a rare type of Norman fortification with only about 60 known examples in Britain. Exterior: Situated on a hillock above the River Wansbeck, the castle's remains include a substantial earthen motte and a surrounding ditch. An oval bailey, defended by a series of outworks and ditches, occupies the summit of the hill. The southern half of the bailey features remnants of a curtain wall, enclosing an outer ward, while the northern half retains an earthen bank. Interior: Within the shell keep are the remains of a central tower from the early 13th century, divided into two barrel-vaulted chambers likely used for water storage. Foundations of earlier structures are also present. Adjacent to the shell keep are the ruins of a 12th-century chapel and associated graveyard, adding to the site's historical significance. The well-preserved earthworks and stone structures provide valuable insights into medieval defensive architecture.
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History of the Church: The parish church dates back to the late 12th century and was remodeled in the 13th century, likely after the village was burned by King John in 1216. The 14th century saw the addition of transepts. Major restoration and the addition of a south aisle, west tower, clerestory, and porch were carried out by R.J. Johnson of Newcastle in 1874-5. Exterior: The church features a mix of medieval squared stone and 19th-century ashlar with red tile roofs. Key elements include a west tower with an octagonal southwest stair turret, a south aisle with stepped angle buttresses and lancet windows, and a projecting southwest porch. The north nave wall has 13th-century masonry and a blocked door. The chancel’s south wall includes a 12th-century priest’s door and lancet windows, while the transepts have trefoiled ogee lights. Interior: Inside, the 12th-century south arcade features round moulded arches on round piers with scalloped capitals. The north transept and south transept have foliage-carved capitals and a small piscina, respectively. The chancel arch and tower arch are 19th-century, and the chancel includes triple sedilia and eastern lancets with 12th-century outer shafts. Fittings include a 1622 Revely monument, a Romanesque wall monument, a medieval bell, and various 19th-century items like the font, pulpit, and reredos with figures of Saints Aidan and Cuthbert.
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Built in the late 1300's by the Creswell family to defend against attacks from Border Reivers. The tower has been restored 2019-20 and is open to the public.
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Bothal is a small village in Northumberland, England, known for its historical landmarks and rural charm. The village features Bothal Castle, a well-preserved privately-owned medieval castle from the 14th century. The Church of Saint Andrew, a parish church with Norman architecture dating back to the 12th century, is another notable attraction. Bothal also offers picturesque countryside for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and fishing along the River Wansbeck. Visitors can enjoy exploring the village's historical sites and taking in its natural beauty.
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Not open to the public but some excellent views from the outside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any castles directly within Ellington or Linton?
While the villages of Ellington and Linton themselves do not have prominent castles directly within their boundaries, they are situated in Northumberland, a county renowned for its rich history and numerous impressive castles within a reasonable distance. You can find historical sites like Bothal Castle and Mitford Castle Ruins nearby.
Which castles near Ellington and Linton are family-friendly?
Several castles in the area offer great experiences for families. Creswell Pele Tower, a restored 14th-century tower, is open to the public and suitable for families. Mitford Castle Ruins also offers a short walk that is brilliant for families. Further afield, Alnwick Castle is famous for its Harry Potter-themed activities like broomstick training, and Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens offers family events and trails.
What are some of the most historically significant castles to visit?
Northumberland is rich in history. Alnwick Castle, home to the Percy family since 1309, has Norman origins and impressive state rooms. Bamburgh Castle boasts a history spanning over 1,400 years, dating back to Anglo-Saxon kings. Warkworth Castle, a ruined medieval castle, features a distinctive cross-shaped keep. Closer to Ellington and Linton, Bothal Castle has a rich history, originally built in the 12th century and transformed in 1343.
Are there any castle ruins with walking trails nearby?
Yes, Dunstanburgh Castle is a towering ruin located on the coast between Craster and Embleton. A scenic 1.5-mile walk from Craster leads to the castle, where you can explore the gatehouse and climb Lilburn Tower for enhanced coastal views. Mitford Castle Ruins also offers a short, family-friendly walk around its historical site.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Ellington and Linton offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the 'Druridge Bay Country Park – Warkworth Castle loop' or 'Druridge Bay Country Park – The Drift Cafe loop'. For hiking, options include the 'Newbiggin-by-the-Sea loop' or the 'Creswell Pele Tower – Beacon Point Coastal View loop'. Explore more options on the hiking guide or cycling guide for the region.
Which castles offer unique experiences or attractions?
Alnwick Castle is famous for its broomstick training sessions and falconry displays, appealing to Harry Potter fans. Chillingham Castle is known as England's most haunted castle, offering tours that delve into its dark history and paranormal activity. Bamburgh Castle, with its spectacular beachside location, is a popular spot for film and television.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Northumberland?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring castles and their grounds, with longer daylight hours. Many castles also host special events and activities during this period. However, the dramatic coastal castles like Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh can be particularly atmospheric in the cooler, quieter months, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any lesser-known or quieter castle sites to visit?
Yes, Edlingham Castle is a picturesque medieval ruin, originally a 12th-century manor house that was fortified. It offers a quiet glimpse into England's feudal past and the Anglo-Scottish border conflicts. You can learn more about its history here. Closer to Ellington and Linton, Cockle Park Tower is a hunting lodge that is harder to spot and offers a more secluded experience.
Can I visit castles that are still inhabited?
Yes, Alnwick Castle is the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK and has been home to the Percy family since 1309. Bamburgh Castle is also one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. However, Bothal Castle, while impressive, is a private residence and not accessible to the public.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in this region?
The castles in Northumberland offer diverse and stunning views. Bamburgh Castle provides spectacular vistas of the Northumberland coastline. Warkworth Castle offers impressive views out to sea from its keep. Dunstanburgh Castle, situated on the coast, provides magnificent sea views, particularly from Lilburn Tower. Bothal Castle offers fantastic views of its ruin from the village of Bothal.
Are there options for public transport to reach castles near Ellington and Linton?
Public transport options to some of the more remote castles can be limited. While major castles like Alnwick and Bamburgh may have bus routes or be accessible via regional train stations with onward connections, it's often advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving for greater flexibility, especially for smaller or ruined sites. Planning ahead is recommended.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Ellington and Linton?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and the diverse range of historical sites, from well-preserved structures to atmospheric ruins. The community has shared over 21 photos and given more than 19 upvotes for the castles in the region. Specific highlights like Bothal Castle are noted for their magnificent views, and Mitford Castle Ruins is enjoyed for its short, family-friendly walks.
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