Aydon Castle
One of Northumberland's less celebrated Castles, but it is still definitely worth visiting if you are in the Corbridge area. It's located just a mile outside the Town on the banks of the river and is almost completely still in tact, it's one of the Country's best examples of a 13th Century Manor House. Originally the Castle was not fortified, but not long after it was built there was the outbreak of Anglo-Scottish war and this immediately became necessary. So in essence it isn't actually a Castle and was not intended to be, it is a heavily fortified Manor House that has come to be known as a Castle.
Whatever you prefer to call it, there is an interesting History to be explored, having been raided, burnt and changed hands many times throughout the centuries. Another English Heritage gem that should be appreciated, it really is a beautiful setting in the woodland and perfect for a family day out or picnic. English Heritage members enter free of charge, postcode for your SatNav: NE45 5PJ.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE45 5PJ, Visit their Website
Getting There
Getting to Corbridge by road is easy and very convenient, it's just minutes off the A69 West of Newcastle. Parking is limited to on-street in the Town except for a small parking area in the Market Place. Aydon Castle is located about a mile North of Corbridge, with an access road from the B6321.
Corbridge is also well served by Public Transport, with one of Arriva's main routes (Newcastle to Carlisle) stopping in Corbridge. This route connects Corbridge with Hexham, Haydon Bridge, Haltwhistle, Brampton and Carlisle as well as Newcastle. There is also a bus service that runs from Morpeth that goes through Corbridge on it's way to Hexham. There is a Train Station just outside the Town to the South of the River Tyne. Trains run regularly along this line between Newcastle and Carlisle in both directions. The line is operated by Northern Rail.
English Heritage