Blenkinsopp Castle

Blenkinsopp Castle is a fortified structure near Greenhead that began as a 14th-century tower house. The ruins show damage from a 19th-century fire and combine medieval stonework with later additions to the original defensive building.

The Blenkinsopp family received permission in 1340 to fortify their property, adding defensive walls and deep trenches around it. The building fell into decline over the following centuries and eventually lost its importance to the family.

The name comes from medieval Celtic words describing the geographical features of the hilltop and the valley below. Visitors walking the grounds can still sense this connection between the place and its natural surroundings.

The site sits on a hillside above Tipalt Burn and involves some walking on uneven terrain. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and take care when exploring the ruined structures.

A report from 1541 noted that the roof was already crumbling and the tower was weakening, decades before the family finally left. This early record shows how quickly the structure began its long decline.

Location: Greenhead

GPS coordinates: 54.97400,-2.52500

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:43