Listed Prudhoe Castle, Northumberland opened to public

The castle opened to the public for a special event <i>(Image: Brian Morris/English Heritage)</i>
The castle opened to the public for a special event (Image: Brian Morris/English Heritage)
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A listed medieval castle in Northumberland hosted a special event that attracted hundreds of people over the weekend.

Prudhoe Castle, managed by English Heritage, was closed to the public in April 2025 for 'operational updates'.

English Heritage then announced that it would reopen a section of the castle, along with its Outer Ward Walk.

The organisation said it is changing how visitors are welcomed to Prudhoe Castle, and a 'new way of operating is currently being developed'.

The castle grounds are open to the public, free of charge, seven days a week. The inner section of the site frequently opens for pre-booked guided tours, group bookings and events.

It opened to the public for a special event on Saturday, May 2, when visitors explored the history hidden within the castle walls.

Hundreds of people visited Prudhoe Castle during the event, which was especially popular with families.

An English Heritage spokesperson said: “Several hundred people were welcomed to the castle throughout the day, with the event proving especially popular among families.

"Many guests brought picnics and made the most of the grounds, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.”

English Heritage said the castle, which was continuously occupied for over nine centuries, was originally the home of the Umfravilles.

It was eventually taken over by the famous Percy family, who restored it.

"A short drive from Hadrian's Wall, the castle 'occupies a naturally strong position guarding a vital crossing of the River Tyne'," English Heritage said.

It added: "A fine ‘Regency Gothic’ mansion within the walls was built as a ‘gentleman’s residence’.

"In its elegant, unfurnished rooms, you’ll find family-friendly displays tracing the stories of a fortress continuously occupied for more than nine centuries. There’s also a children’s activity room with games."

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