Aydon Castle

Aydon Castle is a fortified manor house in Northumberland with thick defensive walls, medieval towers, and a central courtyard enclosed by residential rooms and service buildings. The structure combines walkable walls, a ditch, and multiple levels of chambers designed for both defense and daily living.

The fortress was created around 1305 when Robert de Raymes transformed his manor house by adding crenellations and heavy defensive structures to counter increasing Scottish border raids. Later modifications improved the residential spaces while preserving the original protective framework.

The castle displays shifts in medieval craftsmanship through its carved stone fireplaces from different periods, revealing how artisans adapted their work over time. Visitors can observe these changes firsthand while moving through the rooms.

The downhill location makes approaching from above easier, though the slope requires careful footing when walking the grounds. Sturdy shoes are advisable, and the exposed sections on the wall tops can be challenging in windy conditions.

The building occupies a downhill position that disadvantaged defenders, going against all standard medieval fortification principles since attackers held the higher ground. This unusual placement meant the occupants faced a constant defensive disadvantage.