Thirlwall Castle
Explore the free, historic ruins of Thirlwall Castle, a 14th-century fortress on Hadrian's Wall, rich with legend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Thirlwall Castle
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the free, historic ruins of Thirlwall Castle, a 14th-century fortress on Hadrian's Wall, rich with legend.
"A small but historic ruin, free to visit and steeped in legend, offering great views."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk to the castle and surrounding trails can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable visit.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Site
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Keep them on a lead if livestock are present in nearby fields.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Castle Ruins
Main castle structure
Explore the remnants of a 14th-century castle, including visible room layouts and a unique staircase within the walls.
Prison Turret
Corner turret base
Discover the intriguing prison located in the base of a corner turret, a stark reminder of the castle's history.
Splendid Views
Castle ramparts
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Northumberland countryside from the castle's elevated position.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Parking
Historic Site & Walking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk to the castle and surrounding trails can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable visit.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Site
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Keep them on a lead if livestock are present in nearby fields.
🚶♀️ Combine with Hadrian's Wall
Thirlwall Castle is on the Hadrian's Wall Trail. Extend your walk to Walltown Quarry or the Roman Army Museum.
☕ Nearby Refreshments
After exploring, head to Greenhead village for tea rooms or the local pub for refreshments.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk to the castle and surrounding trails can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable visit.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Site
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Keep them on a lead if livestock are present in nearby fields.
🚶♀️ Combine with Hadrian's Wall
Thirlwall Castle is on the Hadrian's Wall Trail. Extend your walk to Walltown Quarry or the Roman Army Museum.
☕ Nearby Refreshments
After exploring, head to Greenhead village for tea rooms or the local pub for refreshments.
🛤️ Safe Railway Crossing
The path from the car park crosses a railway line. Ensure you cross safely and be aware of train times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Thirlwall Castle to be a charming, free historical site with remnants of its past structure and intriguing legends. While small and not extensively preserved, its location on Hadrian's Wall and the surrounding views are highlights. Some note the walk can be steep and parking limited, but overall it's considered a worthwhile and accessible historical stop.
"Short walk from car park. It's small but free. Path crosses railway line."
Jannice Mckinstray
"Not huge... not very well preserved.. but still historic and there..a nice distraction and walk"
david howland
"A steep walk to it but lovely to see"
Emma Spencer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thirlwall Castle is accessible via the B6318 road. There's a car park on this road, and the castle is a short, approximately 0.3km, walk away, requiring a safe crossing of the railway line.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, the castle is situated between Longbyre and Greenhead villages, which may have local bus services. Check local transport schedules for options.
Parking is available on the B6318. It's noted that parking can be limited, especially during busy periods, and it's situated on farmland.
Yes, Thirlwall Castle is located on the Hadrian's Wall Trail and the Pennine Way, making it a significant historical point for walkers and hikers.
Cycle Route 72 connects Longbyre and Greenhead villages, passing near Thirlwall Castle, making it accessible for cyclists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Thirlwall Castle is free to visit. There are no tickets required for entry, making it a great budget-friendly historical excursion.
As an open-air historical site, Thirlwall Castle does not have set opening hours. It is generally accessible during daylight hours.
There is no admission fee to visit Thirlwall Castle. It's a free historical attraction for all to enjoy.
While there are no official opening hours, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and to appreciate the ruins and views.
The main consideration is crossing the railway line safely. Dogs are permitted on leads. Be mindful of the surrounding farmland.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the ruins of the 14th-century castle, including remnants of rooms, a staircase within the walls, and a prison in a corner turret. The site also offers splendid views of the countryside.
Thirlwall Castle is a ruin, but a significant portion of its structure remains, allowing visitors to understand its layout and historical significance.
A visit to Thirlwall Castle itself can take around 30-60 minutes, depending on your interest in exploring the ruins and enjoying the views. This can be extended if you plan to walk parts of Hadrian's Wall.
There are no specific visitor facilities directly at the castle ruins. Basic amenities like toilets and refreshments can be found in the nearby village of Greenhead.
Built in the 1330s by John Thirlwall, the castle was constructed using stones from Hadrian's Wall. The name 'Thirlwall' means 'gap in the wall,' referring to where the wall is crossed by a river. A legend tells of a golden table protected by a magic spell.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the atmospheric ruins against the backdrop of the Northumberland landscape. The prison turret and the views from the ramparts offer unique photographic moments.
Yes, the historic ruins and scenic surroundings make Thirlwall Castle a picturesque location for photography, especially during golden hour.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) can enhance the textures of the ruins and the beauty of the landscape, creating dramatic photos.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over or near the castle.
The ramparts offer excellent vantage points for panoramic shots. Exploring the different angles of the ruins themselves also yields great photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with a walk along a section of the Hadrian's Wall Trail, which is easily accessible from the castle. This provides more space for kids to explore and burn energy. The Roman Army Museum is also a short distance away and can offer engaging exhibits for children interested in Roman history. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities at the castle itself are limited.
🚶 Hikers and Walkers
You can easily incorporate Thirlwall Castle into a day hike or a longer trek. The proximity to Walltown Quarry and the Roman Army Museum provides options for extending your route or planning a circular walk. Ensure you have appropriate gear, including sturdy footwear, and check weather conditions, as Northumberland can experience varied weather.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's important to be mindful of livestock that may be grazing in the fields around the castle and to keep your dog on a lead in such areas. The short walk from the car park is also manageable for dogs. Remember to bring water for your pet, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legend of Thirlwall Castle
Beyond its historical construction, Thirlwall Castle is steeped in local legend. One captivating tale speaks of a hidden golden table, said to be protected by a powerful magic spell. While the castle is now a ruin, the stories associated with it add a layer of mystique and intrigue for visitors. The remaining structures, including a visible staircase built within the walls and a prison in the base of a corner turret, offer tangible links to its past inhabitants and their lives.
Today, Thirlwall Castle stands as a testament to its layered history, from Roman fortifications to medieval stronghold and enduring legend. Its location on the Hadrian's Wall Trail and Pennine Way makes it a popular stop for hikers and history enthusiasts alike, offering a chance to connect with the past in a dramatic and scenic setting. The free access further enhances its appeal as a destination for exploration and discovery.
Exploring the Surroundings: Hadrian's Wall and Beyond
For those seeking refreshments or a place to rest, the nearby village of Greenhead is just 0.7km away. Here, visitors can find welcoming tea rooms and the Greenhead Hotel Inn, providing opportunities to relax and refuel after exploring the castle and its environs. The village also serves as a hub for local amenities and a chance to experience the charm of rural Northumberland.
The area around Thirlwall Castle is also a haven for cyclists, with Cycle Route 72 passing through Longbyre and Greenhead villages. This network of trails and paths ensures that visitors of all interests – walkers, hikers, and cyclists – can fully immerse themselves in the historical and natural landscapes of Northumberland. Remember to keep dogs on a lead, especially if livestock are present in the fields.
Social
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