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.

THE TOUR INCLUDES:

The Ramparts
Outside the Round Tower
The portcullis door

An interactive armour display in the Old Great Hall (dates from 1180)

The Great Hall built in 1454

Visitors will be greeted at the front gate where a guide will tell you the history of the Castle and it’s owners who have played significant roles in the history of England. There are hidden corners of this Castle that have remained unchanged over the centuries. 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. Visit the Great Hall as our guide tells you the history of this great castle. The Clifford family played an important role in the history of Great Britain – more important than you might think.

Read letters written by Lady Anne

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. See the suit of armour from George Clifford – Queen Elizabeth’s champion jouster. 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.