Morpeth Castle

Morpeth Castle stands on a hill above the River Wansbeck in Northumberland. It began as a motte and bailey in the 11th century and was rebuilt in the 14th century after King John destroyed the original. Parts of the curtain wall and gatehouse remain from that period. Margaret Tudor stayed here in 1516 while fleeing from Scotland, and in 1598 the constable Edward Grey captured conspirators against Elizabeth I. The castle’s most notable military moment came in 1644 when 500 Lowland Scots held it for Parliament against 2,700 Royalists for twenty days. The castle passed through several families over the centuries, including the de Merlay, Greystoke, Dacre and Howard lines. By the 19th century the gatehouse was restored to serve as staff quarters. In 1988 the Landmark Trust took over the lease and completed a full refurbishment in 1990, removing later additions and restoring historic features. The gatehouse now serves as holiday accommodation, available for rent. Visitors find a restored 14th-century gatehouse with original features and a view over the River Wansbeck. The surrounding hilltop site includes remnants of the curtain wall and traces of the earlier motte and bailey. The gatehouse’s interiors reflect its 19th-century conversion, offering modern comforts within historic walls. The castle’s position on the hill provides long views across the valley. The Landmark Trust maintains the property as a holiday home, preserving its layered past.