Warkworth

Agrandir le plan

Shortened history of the castle:

Warkworth Castle was built in a loop of the River Coquet. The original motte and bailey castle was built in the mid 12th century by Earl Henry of Northumberland, son of David I, King of Scots. The castle is most famously associated with the Percy family, who acquired the castle in 1332.

The Percy family were one of the most powerful in the country, controlling much of Northern England. Despite having a major castle nearby at Alnwick, they frequently resided at Warkworth and made big improvements to the castle, most notably with the addition of the great keep in the late 14th century.

The sixth Percy earl, Henry, on his death in 1537, left the castle and all his possessions to Henry VIII. Subsequent attempts to reinstate a Percy brought misfortune on the castle as the catholic Percy's came into conflict with the protestant Queen Elizabeth.

The castle was subsequently allowed to fall into decay.

Opening times and additionnal information:

Castle is open from October to March from 10am to 4pm, and from April to September from 10am to 5pm.

Entrance fees:
Adults: £4.80
Children: £2.90
Concessions: £4.30 (students, disabled...)
Family Ticket: £12.50

There is a free audio tour of this impressive fortress, don't miss it!