Dunstanburgh Castle: The Camelot of the North
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Dunstanburgh, one of Britain's most spectacular castles, was built in 1313 on a grand scale. Research by English Heritage suggests that despite its proximity to the Scottish border, its builder, Thomas of Lancaster - who was the richest man in England after the king - was not really interested in its military value. Instead, he was harnessing Arthurian mythology to signal his opposition to the king and building himself a refuge of last resort in case that opposition backfired (and it did!). Join English Heritage landscape historian Dr Al Oswald on a walk along Northumberland's beautiful coastal path, spanning prehistory to the Cold War.
Note that there is a long walk (about 45 minutes) along the level coast path to reach the Castle from the village of Craster, with no shelter or facilities along the way. The castle itself sits on a low hill and we will be following rough, narrow footpaths around it. Possibly suitable for off-road pushchairs but not for wheelchairs. Under 16s are welcome but the tour content is aimed at adults.
Dunstanburgh, one of Britain's most spectacular castles, was built in 1313 on a grand scale. Research by English Heritage suggests that despite its proximity to the Scottish border, its builder, Thomas of Lancaster - who was the richest man in England after the king - was not really interested in its military value. Instead, he was harnessing Arthurian mythology to signal his opposition to the king and building himself a refuge of last resort in case that opposition backfired (and it did!). Join English Heritage landscape historian Dr Al Oswald on a walk along Northumberland's beautiful coastal path, spanning prehistory to the Cold War.
Note that there is a long walk (about 45 minutes) along the level coast path to reach the Castle from the village of Craster, with no shelter or facilities along the way. The castle itself sits on a low hill and we will be following rough, narrow footpaths around it. Possibly suitable for off-road pushchairs but not for wheelchairs. Under 16s are welcome but the tour content is aimed at adults.