Brougham Castle
Explore medieval Brougham Castle near Penrith, with a great keep, Lady Anne Clifford history, Eden Valley views and English Heritage visitor facilities.
About Brougham Castle
Why visit Brougham Castle
Beside the River Eamont south-east of Penrith, Brougham Castle is one of the Eden Valley’s most evocative medieval ruins. Thick red-sandstone walls, the four-storey keep and a striking double gatehouse tell the story of a stronghold built to defend an important crossing. Visitors can explore the grounds, follow the layout of the buildings and discover how the castle changed across centuries.
A castle shaped by the Clifford family
The first castle was founded in the early thirteenth century by Robert de Vieuxpont on a site associated with the Roman fort of Brocavum. The Clifford family later enlarged the residence, while Lady Anne Clifford undertook restoration work in the seventeenth century. An English Heritage exhibition introduces her life and the castle’s longer history. Look for the nearby Countess Pillar, another place linked with her story.
Continue reading+
Climbing the keep and access
One of the most memorable experiences is taking the historic spiral staircase towards the top of the keep for panoramic views. The stairs are steep, narrow and unsuitable for some visitors. English Heritage identifies level access through the shop, around parts of the grounds and into the ground floor, but higher sections are inaccessible to wheelchairs. Grass, low walls and slopes can be slippery or uneven after rain.
Facilities and planning
There is an English Heritage shop selling gifts and light refreshments, with toilets on site. Dogs are welcome on leads. Parking is limited to roadside spaces; there is no dedicated public car park inside the grounds. Check English Heritage prices, opening times and last admission before travel. Combine the castle with Penrith Castle or one of the nearby prehistoric sites for a history-focused afternoon.
Check the official visitor information
Information and access arrangements can change. Before travelling, check Official source. Additional official guidance. Additional official guidance.
Our local note
An atmospheric Eden Valley castle with a genuinely rewarding keep and medieval story. Plan around the steep spiral stairs and limited roadside parking.
Leave a review
Help other travellers with a useful, first-hand review.
Reviews are linked to real Cumbria Guru accounts.
Sign in to review