Naworth Castle, Medieval castle in Brampton, England
Naworth Castle is a medieval fortification near Brampton consisting of a square central tower and courtyard surrounded by stone walls. The structure features defensive mechanisms and a prominent gatehouse decorated with heraldic carvings.
The castle was first documented in 1323, and in 1335 Ralph Dacre obtained royal permission from King Edward III to add defensive structures. The Dacre family shaped its development over many centuries as a significant stronghold.
The castle holds Pre-Raphaelite art pieces and wooden carvings called the Dacre Beasts that reflect the family's heraldic symbols. These carved figures show how residents expressed their identity and status through artistic elements within the castle walls.
The castle sits about two miles east of Brampton near the A69 road connecting Newcastle and Carlisle, making it accessible by car from major routes. It stands close to Lanercost Priory, so visitors can easily explore both sites during a single visit.
During World War II, from 1939 to 1940, the castle housed evacuated students and staff from Rossall School who had fled Lancashire. This unexpected wartime chapter reveals how the castle served practical purposes beyond its traditional military role.
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