3 Haunted Castles That Shaped Northumberland’s Bloody History

Ghosts, betrayals, and bloodshed!!!  Discover the haunted Northumberland castles that still echo with the screams of the past. These chilling spots are not just ruins... they’re witnesses.

Northumberland is a land where history clings to every stone. With more castles than any other English county, it’s no surprise that some are said to be haunted by the souls who died within their walls. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these atmospheric ruins have a powerful presence. Visit at dusk and you’ll see what I mean.

In this blog I’ll share with you my three favourite haunted castles in Northumberland. As a local, I’ve explored many of them, from misty towers to blood-soaked battlements, but these three have the strongest stories. Each has its own dark energy, unique legend, and eerie charm.

I’ll share my personal experiences, some little-known history, and top tips if you’re brave enough to visit. Let’s dive into Northumberland’s haunted heart.

Chillingham Castle – Britain’s Most Haunted Castle

Chillingham isn’t just the most haunted castle in Northumberland, it’s often called the most haunted in Britain. And from the moment you step through the heavy gates, you’ll understand why. The atmosphere here is electric. Cold spots. Shadows. Whispers. It's a place that gets under your skin.

Dating back to the 12th century, Chillingham was once a stronghold against Scottish invaders and home to some of England’s darkest moments. It even had its own dungeon and medieval torture chamber. Many of the ghosts said to haunt the castle are thought to be victims of this grim history.

There really is no other castle like Chillingham, you've just got to visit

One of the most famous spirits is the “Blue Boy”, often seen in the Pink Room, where his cries were once heard coming from the walls. During renovations, bones and scraps of blue cloth were found behind the panelling. Coincidence? You decide.

The castle is also cursed by a witch. In the Still Room you can see the painting of the Haunting Witch, she curses anyone who steals from the castle. The room is filled with letters from people who thought the curse was a joke, until they stole an item or trinket from the castle, then had to send it back following a spate of bad luck.

You can visit during the day, or if you’re really brave, join one of their evening ghost tours. I’ve done both. The daytime is fascinating, but the night-time experience? It’s unforgettable.

Useful Information Points:

• Parking: Free on-site

• Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed inside castle

• Opening Times: 11am - 5pm, seasonal hours vary (April to early November)

• Admission Charges: Adults £14 – Children £8

• Child Friendly: 8+ recommended (can be scary)

• Facilities: Toilets, picnic area, fantastic gift shop

• Café: Yes – hot food and drinks available beside a roaring open fire

Warkworth Castle – The Lion’s Ghost Still Roams

Warkworth Castle stands proudly above the River Coquet, its keep towering like a giant’s crown. Once home to the powerful Percy family, this castle was a hotspot of political intrigue, family feuds, and violent power struggles. It’s said that not all who lived here ever truly left.

One ghostly tale tells of a lion that once belonged to the Percy family. After its death, the ghost of the lion was seen roaming the castle grounds, especially near the gatehouse. Locals speak of hearing low growls and scratching at night, though nothing is ever seen.

Inside the castle, I’ve personally felt strange changes in temperature while exploring the keep. One particular spiral staircase made me feel like I was being followed, though no one was behind me. It could’ve been the wind. Or it could’ve been one of the many former residents who met a grim fate here.

Warkworth is less overtly spooky than Chillingham, but the energy here is heavy, brooding, and unforgettable. There is also a beautiful riverside walk just a few yards from the castle walls.

Useful Information Points:

• Parking: Free with English Heritage membership or pay-and-display nearby

• Dog Friendly: Yes, on leads

• Opening Times: 10am - 5pm daily (check seasonal changes)

• Admission Charges: Adults £9.50 – Children £5.70

• Child Friendly: Yes

• Facilities: Toilets, shop

• Café: Nearby cafes in the village – we highly recommend Bertram’s, or the Mason's Arm or Hermitage Inn for a pub lunch.

Dunstanburgh Castle – Ruined by War, Haunted by a Queen

Reaching Dunstanburgh Castle feels like stepping into a gothic novel. Perched dramatically on the Northumberland coast, the walk in is half the magic, a mile-long windswept path that hugs the sea. The ruins loom ahead like broken teeth against the sky.

Built in the 14th century by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, Dunstanburgh was meant to be a power base... but instead it became a symbol of failure and bloodshed. After Thomas’s brutal execution, the castle fell into ruin and never recovered.

Locals believe the ghost of a murdered queen roams the grounds, searching for peace. On stormy nights, figures are said to be seen walking the walls. I once visited at sunrise, completely alone, and swear I heard footsteps on the battlements when no one else was there.

The castle is managed by English Heritage and the walk in itself is worth the visit, hauntingly beautiful whatever the weather. The views from its ruined walls looking out to sea are simply stunning.

Take the coastal walk from Craster Harbour to Dunstanburgh Castle

Useful Information Points:

• Parking: Craster village pay-and-display car park

• Dog Friendly: Yes

• Opening Times: Open daily 10am - 5pm

• Admission Charges: Adults £6.50 – Children £3.90 (free with membership)

• Child Friendly: Yes

• Facilities: None at the castle itself – toilets in Craster

• Café: The Jolly Fisherman in Craster is a must-visit after your walk

Final Thoughts and What’s Your Next Northumberland Adventure?

I hope you’ve enjoyed my Northumberland castle recommendations. If you have any questions at all, feel free to comment in the section below or message me through the website.

If you loved this blog and you’re a big history fan, then you might enjoy my blog The Northumberland Dickensian Villages That You’re Going to Fall in Love With

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Planning the ultimate road trip around Northumberland? Don’t forget to grab your 377-page full-colour guide packed with routes, maps, myths and hidden gems. It’s the perfect travel companion for history lovers and adventurers alike. Get your copy here.

See you on the trail,

Debby