Tarset Castle

Tarset Castle is a ruin half a mile south-west of the village of Tarset in Northumberland. It was built after John Comyn received a licence to crenellate in 1267. The castle originally had four square corner turrets. Sir Ralph Fenwick destroyed the castle in 1525. Today only stone foundations on a mound remain. The remains are recognised as a Grade II* listed structure. This protects the site under the law. The castle’s licence to crenellate marks its historical importance. Its position on a mound once gave it a commanding view. The four turrets would have strengthened its defences. Visitors find a quiet mound topped by scattered stones. The foundations outline where walls once stood. The Grade II* listing means the site is carefully preserved. The surrounding area is rural and peaceful. No buildings remain above ground, just the earthworks. The castle’s history is clear from the surviving stones.