Bamburgh Castle
Majestic medieval fortress on Northumberland's coast, once home to Anglo-Saxon kings and now a star of 'The Last Kingdom'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light.
Bamburgh Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic medieval fortress on Northumberland's coast, once home to Anglo-Saxon kings and now a star of 'The Last Kingdom'.
"This is the most impressive castle I have seen to date, the views are amazing and the history is second to none."
🚗 Parking Options
Castle parking is £6, or use the car park across the road. Arrive early for best spots!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Castle Exterior
Northumberland Coast
A majestic fortress perched dramatically on volcanic cliffs, offering breathtaking coastal views. A true medieval legend.
State Rooms & Royal History
Inside Bamburgh Castle
Explore opulent state rooms filled with art and artifacts, uncovering centuries of royal intrigue and history.
Bamburgh Beach Views
Adjacent to the Castle
Stunning white sandy beach with unparalleled views of the castle. Perfect for a stroll or family fun.
The Last Kingdom Connection
Castle Grounds
Visit the real-life Bebbanburg, famously featured in 'The Last Kingdom' series. Feel the Viking and Saxon history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Weather-Ready for Coastal Winds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Options
Castle parking is £6, or use the car park across the road. Arrive early for best spots!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must!
🌬️ Brace for Coastal Winds
It's the North Sea coast! Pack layers and waterproofs, even on sunny days.
🐉 Fun for Kids
Look for the little dragons dotted around the rooms – a fun touch for younger visitors!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Options
Castle parking is £6, or use the car park across the road. Arrive early for best spots!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must!
🌬️ Brace for Coastal Winds
It's the North Sea coast! Pack layers and waterproofs, even on sunny days.
🐉 Fun for Kids
Look for the little dragons dotted around the rooms – a fun touch for younger visitors!
🎧 Audio Tours Available
Enhance your visit with audio tours that bring the castle's rich history to life.
📸 Drone Views are Epic
If you have a drone, the aerial shots of Bamburgh Castle are spectacular!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bamburgh Castle for its breathtaking coastal views and rich, fascinating history. The state rooms are well-maintained and engaging, and the connection to 'The Last Kingdom' is a major draw. While generally excellent value, some visitors noted a lack of sufficient restrooms for the number of guests.
"Bamburgh Castle is one of those places that completely takes your breath away the moment it comes into view. Perched high on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea, it looks straight out of a storybook — and it’s every bit as impressive up close.
We spent a few hours exploring both inside and out. The interior is beautifully preserved, full of armour, portraits and intricate rooms that make it easy to imagine the castle’s long history. The staff are friendly and full of fascinating facts — definitely worth chatting to as you go. If you are a fan of the TV series "The Last Kingdom" you will enjoy the room dedicated to the show, with the thrones, memorabilia and information boards about the filming in the castle.
Outside, the views are unreal. You can see miles along the coast, with golden sands stretching out below and the Farne Islands dotting the horizon. Even if you don’t go inside, the castle grounds and nearby beach make it a fantastic stop for photos or a coastal walk.
Bamburgh itself is a lovely village too — just a short stroll away, with cosy cafés and little shops to explore after your visit.
It’s one of those rare places that combines dramatic scenery, rich history, and total calm all at once. It is truly one of the most beautiful spots in the UK."
Tasha (AutismFamilyTravelGuide)
"The castle sits on a hill overlooking the sea and the nearby town. The views from the castle are stunningly beautiful.
There is a lot to see in the castle as well as outside. I would say give yourself two to three hours to be sure you see everything.
Would definitely recommend a visit."
Carole Picton
"What an amazing place to visit. The grounds have some stunning views over the beach. The rooms are kept in great condition. The staff were brilliant and informative.
There is parking at the castle which is £6 or you can park across the road in another car park.
The gift shop was great and there are toilets near the cafe's. I felt there was not enough toilets for the amount of visitors."
Adam Barnard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to rent a car in Newcastle and drive north (approx. 1 hour). Public transport involves a train to Berwick-upon-Tweed and then a bus, which can be time-consuming.
Yes, there is dedicated parking at the castle for a fee (around £6). Alternatively, you can park in the village car park across the road.
It's a long day trip from York, but possible if you rent a car. Consider staying overnight in Northumberland to fully enjoy the area.
You can reach Bamburgh by bus from nearby towns like Alnwick or Berwick-upon-Tweed, but services can be infrequent. Renting a car offers the most flexibility.
Many visitors combine Bamburgh with Holy Island and Alnwick Castle. Doing all three in one day is ambitious; consider spreading them over two days.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but expect to pay around £10-£15 for adult admission. Booking online in advance is recommended. Check the official website for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
Opening hours vary seasonally. Generally, the castle is open daily from late morning to late afternoon. Always check the official Bamburgh Castle website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, concessions are usually available for children, seniors, and sometimes families. Check the ticketing page on the official website for details.
Typically, admission to the castle includes access to the grounds and state rooms. Separate ground-only tickets are usually not offered.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved state rooms with art and artifacts, the King's Hall, and the Aviation Museum showcasing Spitfire and Hurricane remnants.
Absolutely! Kids love the 'Last Kingdom' connection, the dragons hidden in rooms, and the vast beach. The aviation museum is also a hit.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the castle thoroughly, including the state rooms, grounds, and any special exhibits.
Assistance dogs are typically allowed, but general pets may not be permitted inside the castle buildings. Check their policy for specific details.
The site has a history spanning over 1,400 years, from Celtic and Anglo-Saxon kingdoms to Norman and later periods, with significant Victorian restoration. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe on-site offering sandwiches, cakes, snacks, and drinks. It's a nice spot to refuel after exploring.
The village of Bamburgh has several pubs and cafes offering local cuisine. For more options, consider nearby towns like Seahouses or Alnwick.
Picnics are generally allowed in designated outdoor areas or on the beach, but not inside the castle buildings or state rooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach offers iconic shots of the castle from below. The castle ramparts provide stunning panoramic views of the coast. Drone photography is also popular.
Photography is usually permitted in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain rooms to protect artifacts. Check signage on-site.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Overcast days can also create dramatic, moody shots of the castle.
Drone usage may be restricted due to proximity to the castle and potential disturbance. Always check local regulations and castle policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the beach or in designated areas. The on-site cafe offers kid-friendly options. Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover, and be prepared for potentially windy weather.
🏰 History Buffs & 'The Last Kingdom' Fans
Fans of 'The Last Kingdom' will be thrilled to explore the real Bebbanburg. The castle's dramatic setting and imposing architecture perfectly match the series' portrayal, allowing you to truly step into Uhtred's world.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Experiment with different angles from the beach, the castle ramparts, and even consider drone photography (where permitted) for truly unique perspectives. The ever-changing coastal weather can add a dramatic flair to your images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Bamburgh's Rich History
+2Over the centuries, the castle has been a royal residence, a military fortress, and even a prison. It played a significant role during the Wars of the Roses, enduring a famous siege in 1464. The current magnificent appearance is largely due to extensive Victorian restoration, transforming it into the iconic landmark we see today.
For fans of historical dramas, Bamburgh Castle is famously known as the real-life inspiration for Bebbanburg in 'The Last Kingdom.' This connection has brought a new wave of visitors eager to walk in the footsteps of Uhtred of Bebbanburg and immerse themselves in the Viking and Saxon past.
Exploring the Castle and its Surroundings
The castle grounds provide breathtaking panoramic views of the North Sea and the expansive Bamburgh Beach. This beautiful stretch of sand is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering a different perspective of the castle perched high above. Many visitors find the combination of the imposing fortress and the wild coastal landscape utterly captivating.
+1Beyond the castle, the charming village of Bamburgh itself is worth exploring. You can find local pubs and cafes offering traditional fare. For those looking to extend their visit, nearby attractions like the Farne Islands (for puffin spotting in season) or the historic town of Alnwick are easily accessible, making Bamburgh a great base for exploring the wider region.
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