Appleby Castle

Situated in the beautiful Eden Valley at the edge of the ancient county town of Westmorland Appleby Castle has stood for over 800 years. Dominated by its impressive Norman Keep, the castle was a major stronghold of the powerful Clifford family, who helped to hold the Northern Marches during medieval times and fought (and sometimes died) in most of the famous medieval battles, Bannockburn, Cr‚cy, the Wars of the Roses and Flodden. Later the castle was a favourite home of Lady Anne Clifford, the last of her line, who stubbornly held out for her heritage in the troubled years of the Civil War and left an enduring legacy at the castle, which was further enhanced by her descendants, the Tufton family. Today visitors may enjoy a castle which has something to offer from each period of history. The Norman Keep has five floors and a dramatic view from the top. The curtain wall and defensive earthworks are amongst the most impressive in northern England. The Great Hall of the castle contains the famous Great Painting of Lady Anne and her family, together with other period pieces. In the grounds, the castle has a variety of birds and animals, both domestic and foreign, including rare breeds, with special gentle areas for children. The castle's stable block, built in the outer bailey is also of interest as is Lady Anne's `Beehouse', actually a small oratory. Please telephone for details