Cartington Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Cartington, England
Cartington Castle is a stone ruin perched on a hill above the River Coquet in Northumberland. The remaining walls show how the fortress expanded over time from a basic fortified tower into a larger defended residence.
The castle was founded in the 14th century and gained historical importance when Queen Margaret of Scotland and her young daughter sought shelter there in 1515. This episode connects the site to significant Scottish-English events of that era.
The Grade I listed building represents the architectural evolution of English defensive structures, from a basic pele tower to an expanded fortified residence.
The ruins sit on private farmland about 3 kilometers northwest of Rothbury, so you need the owner's permission to walk right up to them. It is best to explore the site in good weather and to check access beforehand with local information.
Restoration work uncovered several objects from different periods inside, including a wooden cross from the 15th century. These finds suggest the fortress was used and inhabited by people over a long span of time.
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