Dunstanburgh Castle

This impressive castle stands proud on the shoreline just north of Craster on one of England’s most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Managed by English Heritage the castle is believed to have been built around 1313 when the Earl Thomas of Lancaster was trying to construct a large fortress as a symbol of his opposition to the then king, Edward II.  Unfortunately the Earl was executed in 1322 and therefore didn’t manage to see it in all its glory.  Although it stood proud for over 100 years in 1464 its condition started to deteriorate and was even robbed for its stone!  Today the castle is owned by the National Trust and is in the care of English Heritage. 

A visit to the castle has proven popular with holiday makers and there are is a whole programme of events running throughout the year for families and those keen to learn more about its past.  There are also a number of walks that pass the castle which take in the beautiful coastline, its wildlife including oyster catchers, dunlins and redshanks and don’t forget to stop off in Craster to taste the locally caught kippers!