Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours. Access by ferry not managed by English Heritage
Address:
Piel Island, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0QN
Accessible only via a small boat ferry, this 14th century fortress was built by the Abbot of Furness to guard Barrow-in-Furness against pirates and Scots raiders. Lambert Simnel, pretender to Henry VII's throne, landed here in 1487. The massive keep, inner and outer baileys and the towered curtain walls are still standing.
Read more about the history of Piel Castle.
Before You Go
Access: Piel Island can be accessed from Roa Island by a small ferry operated between Easter and October, weather dependant. The ferry is not managed by English Heritage. For more information please visit their website or contact 07798 794550.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.
Facilities: There is an inn on the island - The Ship Inn - not managed by English Heritage.
Drone flying: Please see our Drone guidance
Plan a Great Day Out
Furness Abbey is around 15 minutes from Piel. The abbey guidebook, available to buy at Furness, includes a section about Piel Castle.
The 15th century Bow Bridge is also nearby.
Your Places Appeal
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