You can really step back in time at this ruined medieval castle, which overlooks the village of Harbottle and the River Coquet. A Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Grade I-listed building, the free-entry ruins are well worth exploring if you are nearby.

The Wandering Fiona

November 23, 2020

Hiking

Beautiful ruins of an ancient castle. You can see where the moat would have ran around it and from the top the view are stunning.

Amy

August 17, 2019

Cycling

Constructed by the Umfraville family in around 1160, Harbottle Castle is a ruined medieval castle on the outskirts of Harbottle village. Built under the request of King Henry II, the castle was designed to defend against the Scots following the Norman Conquest. However, not long after its construction, it was taken by the Scots in 1174.

In 1605, the castle was given to the 1st Earl of Dunbar who allowed the castle to decay. Today, the site is run by Northumberland National Park. You can still visit the remains and earthworks. Entrance is free.

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Best Hikes to Ruins of Harbottle Castle

4.8

(39)

220

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1. The Drake Stone, West Wood & Harbottle Castle loop — Northumberland National Park

7.25km

02:05

160m

170m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

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2. The Drakestone & Harbottle Lake loop — Northumberland National Park

4.35km

01:17

140m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

5.0

(3)

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3. Harbottle Castle loop from Alwinton — Northumberland National Park

6.18km

01:38

60m

Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 160 m

Weather

Today

Wednesday 28 January

6°C

1°C

43 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

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Location: Harbottle, North East England, England, United Kingdom

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Ruins of Harbottle Castle

1. The Drake Stone, West Wood & Harbottle Castle loop — Northumberland National Park

2. The Drakestone & Harbottle Lake loop — Northumberland National Park

3. Harbottle Castle loop from Alwinton — Northumberland National Park

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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