Morpeth Castle

Although known as Morpeth Castle this building is actually just the gatehouse of the original castle with the remainder of it having been destroyed. The original motte and bailey was built on a hill overlooking the River Wansbeck in the 11th century and destroyed by King John in 1216. A new castle was then built in the bailey of the original in the 1340s, but again nothing much has survived apart from the gatehouse and part of the surrounding wall.

In 1516 Margaret Tudor, sister of Henry VIII and widow of James IV of Scotland, stayed for four months in Morpeth Castle as she fled from her enemies in Scotland and sought refuge with her brother. The one great military event in the castle's history was in 1644 when a garrison of 500 Lowland Scots held it for Parliament for 20 days against 2,700 Royalists. The castle was held by and passed by the female line through several illustrious families; de Merlay, Greystoke, Dacre and Howard, none of whom resided there for any long period. In about 1860 the gatehouse was restored and converted to provide a staff residence. Source - Wikipedia.

Nowadays, the castle is owned by the Landmark Trust and is available as a holiday rental home.