Kirkoswald Castle

Kirkoswald Castle is a medieval fortress ruin in northwestern England, dominated by a roughly 60-foot (18 meter) sandstone tower surrounded by a wide moat. Remnants of vaulted dungeons remain beneath and around the tower, giving glimpses of the original defensive structure.

The fortress originated in 1201 when King John granted Hugh de Morvile permission to fortify the manor house on the site. Scottish forces destroyed much of the structure in 1314 during conflicts on the Anglo-Scottish border.

The red sandstone tower and its defensive design reflect the building traditions of northern English castles from the medieval period, serving as a marker of power in the Eden Valley.

The ruins can be viewed from a public footpath that runs alongside the private farmland where the castle stands. Access is best from this pathway, and visitors should remain on the designated route to respect the working farm surrounding the site.

Interior elements from the 16th century, including stained glass windows, wooden paneling, and carved ceiling beams, were removed and relocated to Naworth Castle after the estate owner died in 1525. This transfer shows how furnishings and decorative elements from damaged fortresses were often salvaged and reused elsewhere.

Location: Kirkoswald

GPS coordinates: 54.76210,-2.68610

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:27