Dunstanburgh Castle
Craster, Northumberland
Dunstanburgh Castle stands dramatically in ruins on the headland between Craster and Embleton and can be seen for miles. The castle was built in the 14th century on the command of the wealthiest nobleman in England, Thomas, Earl of Lancaster. While the history of the castle dates back to the early 14th century, the land it’s built on extends way beyond that; excavations during the 1900s led to the findings of many artifacts, suggesting the headland was occupied during the Iron Age and the Roman Era.
This English Heritage site welcomes visitors to explore the ruins and its incredible history. The castle doesn’t have any parking, so you will have to park up and walk to the site along coastal paths (parking options below); the paths are relatively uneven, so not ideal for people with mobility issues. If the walk isn’t for you, then you can certainly enjoy views of the castle ruins from the beautiful Embleton Bay.
Prices
Tickets for Dunstanburgh Castle can be pre brooked on the English Heritage website and can be booked with a donation to the English Heritage. Prices are as follows:
- Adult – £6.50 (£5.90 without donation)
- Child (5-17) – £3.90 (£3.50 without donation)
- Students and over 65s (valid ID may be required) – £5.90 (£5.30 without donation)
- Family (2 adult and up to 3 children) – £16.90 (£15.30 without donation)
- Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) – £10.40 (£9.40 without donation)
If you are an English Heritage or National Trust member, you can enter for free, however, pre booking is still required. Click here to pre book tickets and check the opening times for your chosen date.
Parking
There are a couple of options for parking, but both involve a walk along the coast. You can park at Craster Car Park which is around a 1 mile walk to the Castle or at Embleton Bay, which would be a walk of around 1.5 miles.
- Craster Car Park (Postcode – NE66 3TW). The car park is open all day, every day, and is chargeable between the hours of 08:00-18:00 (outside of these hours, the car park is free). You will also find toilet facilities here. Parking charges are as follows:
- 1 hour – £1.50
- 2 hours – £3
- 3 hours – £4.50
- All day – £6
- You can use the PayByPhone app to pay and the location ID is 804138. Add 0.06p for convenience charge.
- Car Park near Embleton Bay and Dunstanburgh Golf Course (Postcode – NE66 3DT)
- Parking here is free and around 1.5 miles walk to the castle.
- You will see Dunstan Steads Farm on your left and continue down the road. On the right hand side, there is parking. Once you’ve parked up, continue on foot through the gate and take a right; you will see Dunstanburgh Castle in the distance.
**Prices correct as of April 2021**
