The Castle RollsA survey of every visitable castle in the United Kingdom
4.5 / 5 · 446 reviews TOURS ONLY

Brancepeth Castle

County Durham, England


Brancepeth Castle
Brancepeth Castle, further view Brancepeth Castle, further view

Key facts

Operator
Dobson family (private)
Condition
Intact
Access
Limited tour days
Stays
Overnight accommodation available

Pinpoint

Brancepeth, Durham DH7 8DF

Telephone 0191 378 9670

A private castle restored by the Dobson family, open only around 76 days a year and almost always via a guided tour led by the owner himself - reviewers say his enthusiasm for the place is a large part of the appeal. The interior is still very much a work in progress in places, so expect ongoing restoration alongside the grand halls.

Worth the trip

The guided tour led by the owner - reviewers rate his knowledge and passion for the castle as the highlight over the building itself.

Before you go

You must book in advance - reviewers who turned up without a booking were turned away - and check which open day you're attending, since interior access varies.

WHAT VISITORS SAY · 4.5 / 5 across 446 Google reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guided tours at Brancepeth Castle and the passionate, knowledgeable guides, including the owner. One visitor notes the interior is still very much a work in progress with limited rooms currently open, and points out that advance booking is required for entry, but the exterior and church are described as impressive.

~76 open days yearly; castle holiday flat

“Beautiful castle. Didn't get to look around the inside as it was closed but can't wait to go back & look around properly”— Adam Bell, visitor review

Further reading

book
Castle: A History of the Buildings that Shaped Medieval Britain

Marc Morris

Find it on Amazon
Castles of Britain and Ireland cover book
Castles of Britain and Ireland

Plantagenet Somerset Fry

Find it on Amazon
Castles: Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain cover book
Castles: Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain

Marc Morris

Find it on Amazon