Chillingham Castle, Medieval castle in Chillingham, England.
Chillingham Castle is a medieval fortress in Chillingham in northern England that now serves as a museum. Stone walls form a square around a large courtyard, and several towers protect the corners of the compound.
The first fortress appeared in 1344 during the wars between England and Scotland and was later expanded. Over the centuries it remained in the hands of the same family, who still occupy it today.
The name comes from the Old English word for cool land, and today rooms display armor, weapons and paintings that recall centuries of noble life. Visitors see dining halls and bedrooms arranged as they were used over the centuries.
The castle opens from April through November and remains closed outside this period. Visitors must climb narrow spiral staircases to reach certain rooms, so the site is not fully accessible for all guests.
A small park next to the castle holds a herd of white cattle that have lived apart from other animals for more than seven centuries. The animals remain wild and have no connection to cattle outside the grounds.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
