Trifter

NORTHUMBERLAND is renowned for its castles, many of which are quite remarkable. Chillingham Castle in the north east of the county is a exceptional castle, even in this long-fought over borderland. It has been continuously occupied by the Grey Family and their relatives for almost a full millennium and is reputed to be the most haunted castle in England. Furthermore it is home to the world’s only herd of completely wild cattle.

Chillingham Castle with its stunning dungeons and fear-inspiring torture chamber began life as a normal family stronghold during the 12th Century before being transformed into a fully-fledged crenellated, fortified castle in the 14th Century.

This castle was important both strategically and tactically in this area during the three centuries of border warfare. Chillingham covered the invasion routes on the flat land between the North Sea and Cheviot Hills. This stronghold frequently prevented the free passage of Scottish armies through Northumberland.

Chillingham was equally important in the many local Northumbrian blood feuds and helped to keep the border raiding families in check. It underwent many investments and it equally frequently entertained many royal visitors.

The grey family served the country in many capacities throughout the centuries. They often acted as the Lord warden of the English East March. Many family members represented Northumberland in both the houses of Lords and Commons. Charles Grey, 2nd Earl grey steered the Reform Act of 1832 onto the Statute Book, leading to universal suffrage and helping to prevent revolution. Sir Edward Grey, 1st Viscount Grey of Falloden was Foreign Secretary from 1905 to 1916. He realised that Britain’s treaty obligations of honour to Belgium left no alternative but the First World War.

Chillingham Castle is situated in the most romantic grounds and commands breathtaking vistas over the surrounding countryside, including the local farmsteads and the magnificent scenery of the Cheviot Hills.

Visitors are able to walk down to the lake and look at drifts of snowdrops, daffodils, bluebells or the astonishing display of rhododendrons according to the time of the year.

This natural park contrasts with the restrained symmetrically of the Elizabethan topiary garden that is surrounded by intricately clipped hedges of box and yew. These lawns, formal gardens and the woodland walks are all fully open to the public.

Additions were made to the castle during the Tudor Period, but these changes proved unable to mask the undying character o Chillingham Castle. There were more decorative refinements and extravagancies in the 18th and 19th Centuries. These included the gardens and grounds that were laid out by royal architect sir Jeffrey Wyatville when he was fresh from his triumphs at Windsor Castle

Visitors are able to watch the active restoration work that is taking place at the castle. They can see the restitution of complex masonry, metalwork and the ornamental plaster work as the owners gradually bring the great halls and state rooms back to life, These chambers are being filled with the antique furniture and tapestries as well as the weapons and armour that the would have contained in their glory days.

Chilling castle has a large number of ghosts, including that of Lady Mary Burkeley, who has been wandering the corridors for eight centuries.

The castle, which has appeared in many films and TV programmes is available for weddings and other private functions. Coach parties are welcome.

Homemade scones, cakes and light lunches can be obtained at the tea rooms while the gift shop offers a wide variety of gift packs and ideas.

There is limited disabled or wheelchair access to Chillingham Castle due to its medieval construction with its uneven floors and steep spiral staircases. Only guide dogs are admitted to the castle and grounds.

A number of self-catering apartments in the castle are available for booking throughout the year.

Chillingham Castle is world-famous for the Chillingham White Cattle.

Opening times are 12:00 to 17:00 for the grounds and gardens and 13:00 to 17:00 for the castle daily except on Saturdays between May and September. It can be visited by organised groups throughout the year by prior arrangement.

More details of Chillingham Castle can be obtained from 1668 215359.