Castle Howe
Explore the historical motte and bailey earthworks of Castle Howe, offering panoramic countryside views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Minimizes mud and enhances views
Castle Howe
Best Time
Minimizes mud and enhances views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historical motte and bailey earthworks of Castle Howe, offering panoramic countryside views.
"Great views from the top and a pleasant walk, though be prepared for mud!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Wellies or walking boots are a must due to potential mud. Bring a change of shoes for your car!
🚶♀️ Consider Walking Poles
The steep sides can be challenging; poles aid ascent and descent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views
Summit of Castle Howe
Enjoy breathtaking vistas from the top of this ancient earthwork. A rewarding sight after the climb.
Motte and Bailey Earthworks
Castle Howe site
Explore the fascinating remnants of a Norman motte and bailey castle, a significant historical site.
Scenic Countryside Walk
Surrounding fields and paths
A pleasant walk through picturesque fields, often dotted with lambs in spring, leading to the historic site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Muddy Adventure
Manage Expectations for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Wellies or walking boots are a must due to potential mud. Bring a change of shoes for your car!
🚶♀️ Consider Walking Poles
The steep sides can be challenging; poles aid ascent and descent.
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The views from the top are stunning, especially on clear days.
🐑 Enjoy the Rural Charm
Expect to share the site with sheep, adding to the authentic countryside experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Wellies or walking boots are a must due to potential mud. Bring a change of shoes for your car!
🚶♀️ Consider Walking Poles
The steep sides can be challenging; poles aid ascent and descent.
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The views from the top are stunning, especially on clear days.
🐑 Enjoy the Rural Charm
Expect to share the site with sheep, adding to the authentic countryside experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Castle Howe is appreciated for its historical significance as a motte and bailey earthwork and the rewarding panoramic views from its summit. Visitors note the potential for muddy conditions and steep slopes, recommending sturdy footwear and walking poles. While there are no standing structures, the site offers a pleasant walk and a glimpse into the past.
"It's historically significant, but there's not a lot to see (just a mound) and it had been damaged by motorway construction in the 60s. Now mostly visited by sheep."
Martin Lawson
"Nice little walk from parking on the B6260, though I'd suggest wellies or walking boots and a change of footwear when you get back to your car as it will be muddy if it's rained at all recently. Great views. Very steep sides and I'd suggest walking poles to aid ascent/descent. Cute lambs in the adjoining fields this time of year!"
Michael Thomas
"Motte and bailey earthworks, pretty much overgrown. No sign of an actual structure. Nice view from the top!"
K Lawlor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castle Howe is accessible via a walk from parking on the B6260. The exact route may vary, but it's generally a straightforward approach to the earthwork.
Parking is available along the B6260, which serves as a starting point for the walk to Castle Howe.
A walk from the B6260 is recommended. Be prepared for potentially muddy terrain, especially after rain.
While cycling might be possible on nearby paths, the final approach to the earthwork itself is best done on foot due to the terrain.
Information on direct public transport to Castle Howe is limited. It's best accessed by car, with parking available on the B6260.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Castle Howe is an open historical site, and there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit.
As an outdoor historical earthwork, Castle Howe is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Castle Howe. It's a free historical site to explore.
Yes, Castle Howe can be visited year-round. However, conditions can be very muddy in wet weather, so appropriate footwear is essential.
No booking is required for Castle Howe. It's a freely accessible historical site for all visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Castle Howe is primarily a historical earthwork, a motte and bailey site. While there are no standing structures, you can explore the mounds and enjoy panoramic views from the summit.
A visit to Castle Howe typically takes about 1-2 hours, including the walk from the parking area and time spent at the summit enjoying the views.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or visitor centers directly at Castle Howe. It's a natural historical site.
Children can enjoy the walk and the open space, but the steep sides and potentially muddy terrain require supervision.
You can expect lovely countryside views from the top of Castle Howe, offering a scenic panorama of the surrounding area.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the best panoramic views for photography. The surrounding fields, especially with lambs in spring, also make for charming shots.
Yes, Castle Howe provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography due to its elevated position and scenic surroundings.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photography, but clear weather is key for maximizing the views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Castle Howe, but always be respectful of the environment and any livestock.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The main attraction for families will be the scenic views from the top and the novelty of exploring an ancient earthwork. It's a great spot for a picnic if the weather is good. While there are no play facilities, the natural environment itself provides ample opportunity for imaginative play.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the rural setting and the chance to see local wildlife, such as the sheep often found grazing in the fields. The historical significance as a motte and bailey site adds an interesting layer for those interested in history and archaeology. Remember to wear appropriate gear for potentially muddy and uneven terrain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Castle Howe's History
It's important to note that the site has undergone changes, including impact from motorway construction in the 1960s, which has altered its original landscape. Despite this, the remaining earthworks are still a valuable archaeological feature. The primary appeal for modern visitors lies in its historical context and the panoramic views it offers from its elevated position.
When visiting, imagine the bustling activity that would have once taken place here. The strategic location likely offered commanding views of the surrounding landscape, crucial for defense and control. Understanding its past as a defensive stronghold adds a layer of appreciation to the site, even in its current, more natural state.
Navigating the Terrain and Views
For those concerned about the steep ascent and descent, walking poles are frequently recommended as they can significantly aid stability and ease the climb. The effort is generally considered worthwhile, as the top of Castle Howe offers great views across the surrounding countryside. This scenic aspect is a major draw for visitors, providing a pleasant backdrop for exploration.
While the historical aspect is present, the visual payoff from the summit is a key part of the Castle Howe experience. The combination of a short, albeit steep, hike and the expansive vistas makes it a worthwhile stop for those who appreciate natural beauty and a touch of history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit