Warkworth Castle and Hermitage

One of the places to go in on the east side of Northumberland, is Warkworth Castle and Hermitage. Discover its magnificent cross-shaped Keep crowning a hilltop above the River Coquet.

This was one of the largest and most impressive castles because of its status in the Middle Ages as the home of the powerful Percy family, a family who enjoyed almost kingly power in the north.

Uncover a fascinating maze of passages, chambers and staircases and see the Duke’s Rooms, which reveal how they lived lavishly. There is an audio tour available (part of the admission price), which tells the history of the keep.

After exploring the castle, walk half a mile upstream where the ferryman will row you across the River Coquet to the Hermitage, which is only accessible by boat. Most likely this was a private chapel, rather than a hermit’s secluded home and it was carved out of the rockface itself, with three vaulted bays, making it one of the most elaborate medieval chapels of its kind to survive in Britain.

Check the Hermitage opening times, as it is open only on certain days. Don’t miss the exciting and educational, family-friendly events programme and learn about life in medieval times, about being a knight or about falconry. Ask for a free children’s activity sheet and take a Discovery sack, which will help children get to understand the castle better.

Outside, there is lots of space for children to run around and explore and it’s a great place for a picnic. A combined ticket for the castle and hermitage is available.