Castle Tours

The most important fortification in the Eden Valley raises its portcullis for guided tours. A unique, entertaining and exciting experience awaits visitors to tour one of Cumbria’s oldest, most prestigious and beautiful Castles. Owned by the Kings of England and Scotland, Appleby Castle has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Experience how the gentry lived in this jewel of the North of England.

Your Free Audio Tour Includes

Discover over 900 years of history as you explore Appleby Castle at your own pace. Your complimentary audio guide includes:

• The origins and history of Appleby Castle
• The impressive entrance gates and the historic wide Market Street
• The castle grounds and the location of the medieval burgage plots
• The ancient defensive ramparts
• The magnificent Round Tower
• The imposing portcullis gateway
• The historic Inner Bailey and the Norman Keep
• Stories of the people, battles and events that shaped the castle
• And much more…

Simply use your smartphone to begin your journey through one of England’s finest Norman castles.

 This Castle is a hidden gem in the North of England – the only remaining Clifford Castle not in ruins.

Lady Anne Clifford, countess dowager of Pembroke, Dorset and Montgomery is without doubt the most celebrated owner of Appleby Castle. She described the Castle as “the most ancient Lady Anne Clifford seat of her inheritance” – it was her favourite castle and she lived here between 1649 and 1676. It is the only remaining Castle from the Clifford’s not a ruin. The Clifford family played an important role in the history of Great Britain – more important than you might think.

For people staying in the castle

Soak up the surreal atmosphere of the Great Hall. Surrounded by the shields of the owners of the Castle, listen to their story from the most significant room in the castle. View portraits and other relics that time has forgotten.

Explore the beautiful grounds

Set at the foot of the Pennines, the scenery in the grounds is spectacular and memorable. The ramparts are some of the deepest in the North of England and are a fine example of Norman Military engineering. Walk past the Portcullis door, built in 1180 to the yew tree corridor. Soak up the atmosphere of the majestic inner bailey which cherishes one of the few intact Norman Keeps in the United Kingdom.

Are there ghosts in the Castle?

Yes – there are definitely spirits that walk the floors of Appleby Castle. Parts of the Castle are over 900 years old. Remember the Castle was a wooden building before it was rebuilt in stone. There is a warm and friendly presence in Appleby Castle – and we do have stories to tell for those that are interested.