Bamburgh Castle Reviews

Key Features and Benefits of Bamburgh Castle:

1. Historical Significance:

   • Over 3000 Years of History: Bamburgh Castle has a rich history spanning thousands of years, with archaeological evidence dating back to the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman occupation.

2. Architectural and Cultural Attractions:

   • State Rooms and Museums: The castle features 14 state rooms and two museums, one dedicated to archaeological findings and the other to William Armstrong's inventions.
   • Interactive 360 Immersive Dome: An interactive dome that brings the universe to life and showcases three shows for children of all ages.

3. Accessibility and Facilities:

   • Free Shuttle Buggy Service: A free shuttle service from the car park to the main castle for all visitors.
   • Accessible Audio Visual Exhibitions: Exhibitions and a film showing inaccessible rooms in the castle, ensuring all visitors can access the first five rooms on the Stateroom Tour.

4. Dining and Refreshments:

   • Cash-Free Site: Only card payments are accepted in the ticket office, gift shop, and tea room.
   • Scrumptious Food: The Clock Tower Café and Tack Room Takeaway offer a delicious selection of hot and cold food using fresh, local ingredients.

5. Conservation Efforts:

   • Conservation Grazing: Management of dune systems and Site of Special Scientific Interest using hardy native cattle breeds to promote biodiversity.
   • Environmental Stewardship: The estate is farmed in-house, providing habitats for wildlife and striking a balance as working farms.

6. Community Engagement:

   • Support for Local Businesses: The estate supports local businesses, initiatives, charities, and community activities.
   • Community Hub: The Pavilion remains a vital community hub and social venue built for Bamburgh village by the Fourth Lord Armstrong.

7. Events and Activities:

   • Seasonal Programmes: A seasonal programme of activities, including specialists talks and behind-the-scenes tours of the castle.
   • Guided Tours and Talks: Guided tours lasting 45 minutes and ten-minute introductory talks available throughout the day.

8. Accessibility for Groups:

   • Group Rates: Discounts available for groups of 15 or more people, with special packages for groups to pre-book.
   • School Groups: Welcome for school groups of any size, with one free adult place for every twelve pupils.

9. Historical Legends and Myths:

   • Ghost Stories and Legends: The castle is known for its ghost stories and legends, including being the site of Sir Lancelot’s fictitious castle, Joyous Garde.

10. Strategic Importance:

    • Border Garrison: Bamburgh Castle served as a strategic English outpost and a mighty Keep, erected to protect against warring forays into Scotland.

Bamburgh Castle Admission Prices:

• Adult Admission: £17.00
• Child Admission (5-16 years): £8.50
• Family Ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children aged 5-16): £47.00
• Little Adventurers (0-4 years): Free
• Disabled Admission: £12.50 with free access for carers (available from the ticket office only)
• Parking: £5 (payable on arrival only)
• Dog (grounds only): Free

Group Rates:

• Adults: £15.00
• Children (5-16): £7.50
• Guided Tours: Prices available on booking and depend on availability

Winter Admission Tickets (Nov 2024 - Jan 2025):

• Adult: £18.75
• Child (aged 5-16): £9.40
• Little Adventurer (aged 0-4): Free
• Dog (allowed in grounds only): Free

Special Events and Activities:

• Prices vary for special events like the Father Christmas Experience and Festive Wreath Making.