Prudhoe Castle

Prudhoe Castle (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography
Aerial view looking east (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography

Begun between 1100 and 1120 to defend a strategic crossing of the River Tyne against Scottish invaders, Prudhoe Castle has been continuously occupied for over nine centuries. After two sieges during the 1170s - the Scots attackers reportedly declaring 'as long as Prudhoe stands, we shall never have peace' - the mighty stone keep and a great hall were added, followed in about 1300 by two strong towers. Passing from its original Umfraville owners to the powerful Percies in 1398, it was again updated with a fashionable new great hall.

Even after its last military action against the Scots in 1640, Prudhoe's importance as the centre of a great landed estate continued. Early in the 19th century the Percies restored it, building a fine new manor house within its walls. All these developments are now vividly interpreted in a family-friendly exhibition including site finds, helping visitors to explore and understand the extensive remains of this formidable and long-lived fortress.

Opening Times:

April 2009 to March 2010Opening TimesOpening Days
1 Apr-30 Sep 10am-5pm Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.

How much does it cost?

Adult:
£4.00
Children:
£2.00
Concession:
£3.40
English Heritage Members:

How do I get there?

Address:
Northumberland - NE42 6NA
Road Access:
In Prudhoe, on minor road off A695
Train Access:
Prudhoe 1⁄4 mile
Bus Access:
Arriva X66, 601, 602 & 604. Go North East 686
Map Location:
Telephone:
01661 833459

What facilities are available?

Facilities Available:
Parking Male/Female Toilets Male/Female Toilets Exhibition Education Guidebooks Dogs allowed on leads Shop Picnic area Family Learning
Facilities Details:
Dogs allowed on leads in restricted areas only
Display: Video presentation on Northumbrian castles.
Access:
Access to castle: 200m up cobbled slope. Entrance through keep at rear of building. Ground floor of main house accessible via one step. Access to upper floor of manor house and chapel is up steep steps. Seats in manor house.
Grounds: Accessed on impacted gravel and smooth grass, but pushers recommended. Steep slopes can be avoided. Some small steps. Benches.
Toilets: Not adapted for wheelchair users.
Shop: Level access
Parking:
70m from entrance via slope, cobbles and loose gravel. Disabled drivers may park within castle in front of house.

What facilities are available for groups?

Group Discount:
15% discount for groups of 11 or more plus a free place for every additional 20 paying passengers. Free entry for coach driver and tour leader.
Coach Parking Facilities:
Please contact the Visitor Operations Site Supervisor on ++44 (0)1661 833459.
Group Booking:
Free parking for up to 3 coaches, 600 metres from the site entrance.
Average Length of Visit:
1 hour.

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