Things to see and do
Trails and Sculptures
Striking new sculptures have been installed in the castle grounds to create a series of interactive trails which reveal the lives of people who lived in or near the castle in the early 15th century. Choose your character, from Henry Percy of Atholl to Eleanor Neville: Countess of Northumberland to John del Warderobe: long-serving servant of the rulers of Warkworth, to lead you round the castle. Find out more about how the scuptures were made.
Cross-shaped keep
View the awe-inspiring keep as you wander around the nearly intact circuit of towered walls at this spectacular medieval castle. Head to the top for spectacular views over the River Coq and Northumberland countryside.
The great tower or keep is almost complete, though it was built by the first Earl of Northumberland over 600 years ago. Warkworth was besieged by the Scots in 1327 and played a key role in the long-running war between England and Scotland.
Pick up a free audio tour to find out more about this fascinating fortress.
The Percys
Look out for the lion badge carved throughout the castle as you explore. This was the badge of the powerful Percy family who wielded almost kingly power in the north. They owned Warkworth and nearby Alnwick Castle, where their descendants still live today.
Percy fame and fortunes were at their height under Henry Percy, the first Earl of Northumberland. His son 'Harry Hotspur,' was memorably captured by Shakespeare in Henry IV, Part I. His rebellion against the king led to the Percys losing Warkworth Castle, though it was later restored to them.
The Hermitage
Continue your adventure by taking a walk half a mile up river followed by a boat trip to discover the Hermitage, a religious building carved out of the rock.
Enjoy the peaceful setting of this hidden gem, which was probably built as a private chapel for the first Earl of Northumberland.
The Hermitage is open on Sundays and Mondays. Book your visit when you arrive at the castle.
The Duke's Rooms
Experience the lavish lifestyle of the Percys for yourself with a visit to the Duke's Rooms. Although please note, due to conservation reasons the rooms currently have restricted public access.
These rooms were restored by Algernon Percy in the 1850s, ready for the family's return to the castle. The walls were lined with expensive gold-patterned leather, some of which remains today, and decorated with uniquely-designed furniture.
Plan your visit to Warkworth Castle and Hermitage.