Castles & Historic Churches
The Lake District is home to some impressive castles, ruins, abbeys, churches, and priories. Scattered across a stunning Cumbrian landscape, you and your family can travel back as early as the 11th century to learn what it was like to live in the Middle Ages. Whilst a few castles are now ruins, there are many still completely in tact and well maintained. Other sites of interest include remarkable churches and priories with the ruins of an abbey dating back to 1123, which was partially destroyed in WWII.
Brough Castle
Brough Castle is a ruin that lies to the east of the Lake District on the very edge of Cumbria. It has a long and tragic history. It was built on the ruins of a Roman fort and was destroyed several times, both by accident and in war. Today, it is a pleasant place to enjoy a picnic and learn more about the history of northern England with delightful views from its vantage point.
Wray Castle
A fairy-tale castle that children will love, Wray Castle is a National Trust property with a twist. This gothic style 19th century building is devoid of the period furnishings, oil paintings, and historic writings that are so typical of other National Trust properties. Instead rooms are filled with games and crafts for children including Beatrix Potter themed areas. In addition, there are lovely grounds with walks down to the shores of Lake Windermere.
Sizergh Castle
Explore a medieval castle with beautifully maintained grounds at Sizergh Castle, a National Trust property thought to have once been the home of Catherine Parr, the last of Henry VIII’s many wives. Inside the castle you will see a collection of oil paintings with quizzes for children to complete, whilst outside you can wander through the extensive gardens and children can follow clues on a woodland trail.
Piel Island
This former Cistercian stronghold is one of Cumbria’s hidden gems. Located south of the Furness Peninsula the 50-acre island is only accessible by ferry and is inhabited by the “King Of Piel”, also known as the island’s pub landlord. There is an impressive ruined 14th century castle, an 18th century inn serving locally sourced food, and spectacular views. You can also choose to camp on the island over night for a small fee.
Muncaster Castle
Home to the Pennington family since 1208, Muncaster Castle is a charming and idyllic stately home close to the pretty seaside village of Ravenglass. Here you can take a tour around the castle, which is said to be haunted, explore the expansive gardens with one of Europe’s largest collections of Rhododendrons, or get up close and personal with a bird of prey in the Hawk and Owl Centre. There are also places to eat, children’s play areas and a maze, a gift shop, and a 12th century church where you can pause for reflection.
Lowther Castle and Gardens
A tale of decadence and extravagance, Lowther Castle is but a shell of its former self, yet these ruins, reminiscent of a fairy tale castle, are still impressively captivating. Home to the Lowther family for over 800 years the castle was partly demolished after the Second World War with only the shell remaining. Since 2005, an extensive restoration programme has taken place on the site and the castle and gardens first opened to the public in 2011.
Furness Abbey
The impressive sandstone structure of Furness Abbey stands watch over the town of Barrow-In-Furness, and was once home to a powerful order of Cistercian monks, dating back to 1123. Today the ruined building still stands proud and is maintained by English Heritage who, since 2010, have undertaken restoration works to prevent further deterioration. You can stroll through the ruins and visit the exhibition centre to learn more about the history of this dramatic structure.
Cartmel Priory
Built between 1190 and 1220, the Carmel Priory, also known as The Priory Church of St. Mary and St. Michael, is a fine example of an Augustine church. Sadly, most of the priory buildings were destroyed in the 16th century but the church was allowed to remain as a place of worship for the village. Today you can visit to admire the extraordinary architecture and listen to a guided tour that gives you a fascinating insight into the church’s history.
Carlisle Castle
First constructed in the 11th century, Carlisle Castle has witnessed many battles and played a crucial role in British history. Now maintained by English Heritage, the castle gives visitors a chance to learn more about the once fraught relationship between the Scottish and the English. Visitors can roam through the ramparts, or perhaps strike up a conversation with one of the volunteers posing as infamous characters of the past.
Brougham Castle
Lying in ruins since the seventeenth century, Brougham Castle may be a shadow of its former self, but it can still delight visitors with its four-storey keep and maze of ruined passages and chambers. Located close to Penrith, the castle is great place to take a picnic and learn more about the local history of the area.