Dunstanburgh Castle

Overview

Dunstanburgh Castle is a vast 14th-century ruin standing on a remote headland between Craster and Embleton on the Northumberland coast. Built by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, it was once among the largest and grandest fortifications in northern England. Its dramatic coastal position, approached only by a long walk along the shoreline, has made it one of the most striking and romantic castle ruins in Britain.

Early history

Construction of Dunstanburgh Castle began in 1313, during a period of political turmoil under King Edward II. Thomas, Earl of Lancaster—one of the most powerful noblemen of his day—built the castle both as a refuge and as a statement of authority in the turbulent north. However, Lancaster’s rebellion against the king failed, and he was executed in 1322, leaving Dunstanburgh incomplete and largely unused during his lifetime.

Building and layout

The castle was designed on a grand scale, with a vast curtain wall enclosing more than 11 acres of land. Its most distinctive feature is the great twin-towered gatehouse, which served both as the main entrance and as private accommodation for the earl. The surrounding walls and towers took advantage of the natural cliffs for defence, while a freshwater mere to the west provided a defensive barrier and water supply. Later additions in the 1380s by John of Gaunt strengthened the defences, particularly during the wars with Scotland.

Later history and decline

During the 15th century, Dunstanburgh was garrisoned intermittently in response to cross-border conflicts but gradually lost its military importance. By the time of the Wars of the Roses, it was already partly in ruin, though briefly occupied by Lancastrian forces. By the 16th century it had fallen into disrepair, its isolation ensuring it was never converted into a residence like other northern castles. Artists and antiquarians of the 18th and 19th centuries later celebrated its wild, romantic setting.

Present condition

Today Dunstanburgh Castle is managed by English Heritage and stands as a spectacular ruin open to the public. The great gatehouse and stretches of the curtain wall survive to impressive height, commanding dramatic views over the North Sea and the surrounding countryside. The site is accessible by footpath from Craster or Embleton and remains one of Northumberland’s most evocative historic landmarks—a fusion of medieval ambition and coastal grandeur.