
Belsay Hall Castle & Gardens
Explore a striking Greek-inspired Hall, medieval castle ruins, and breathtaking gardens, including the dramatic Quarry Garden.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Belsay Hall Castle & Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a striking Greek-inspired Hall, medieval castle ruins, and breathtaking gardens, including the dramatic Quarry Garden.
"A fabulous place with a walk through the forest like Jurassic Park!"

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain, from the hall to the quarry garden and castle ruins. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Opening Times
Verify Belsay Hall opening times and event schedules before your visit to make the most of your day. :calendar:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Unfurnished Hall
Belsay Hall
A striking Greek-temple-inspired mansion, offering a unique architectural experience and stunning views.

Medieval Castle Ruins
Castle
Explore the atmospheric ruins of the medieval castle, imagining centuries of history within its walls.

Quarry Garden
Gardens
A dramatic and lush garden carved from a former quarry, offering a unique, almost 'Jurassic Park' feel.

Heritage Gardens
Gardens
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens that showcase the changing seasons and diverse plant life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Belsay Hall
Exploring Belsay Hall's Diverse Landscapes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Belsay Castle & Hall, Northumberland, UK. Castle built in 1370, while the 'new' hall was built in the 19th century. Connecting the two properties is a fantastic quarry garden. Part of English Heritage and can be visited. [OC]
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain, from the hall to the quarry garden and castle ruins. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Opening Times
Verify Belsay Hall opening times and event schedules before your visit to make the most of your day. :calendar:
Visiting Morpeth
Seeking Trip Suggestions for Elderly Parents' Visit to Newcastle
🌳 Embrace the Gardens
Allow ample time to wander through the stunning heritage and quarry gardens; they're a major highlight. :evergreen_tree:
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Activities
Look out for family-friendly activities like the Taskmaster challenges, great for keeping kids engaged. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain, from the hall to the quarry garden and castle ruins. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Opening Times
Verify Belsay Hall opening times and event schedules before your visit to make the most of your day. :calendar:
🌳 Embrace the Gardens
Allow ample time to wander through the stunning heritage and quarry gardens; they're a major highlight. :evergreen_tree:
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Activities
Look out for family-friendly activities like the Taskmaster challenges, great for keeping kids engaged. :child:
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy a coffee and cake at the cafe, a pleasant spot to refuel after exploring the grounds. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Belsay Hall Castle & Gardens for its stunning and diverse landscapes, particularly the dramatic Quarry Garden and the atmospheric castle ruins. The unfurnished Hall offers a unique architectural experience, and the heritage gardens are beautiful year-round. It's highly recommended for families due to engaging activities and playgrounds.
"What a fabulous place. The hall and castle are so interesting to walk around and the walk through the forest is like Jurassic Park! All the family will enjoy a visit. My elderly father managed all the walk. We also visited the castle tearoom and enjoyed the delightful cakes. At the moment there is a lighthouse to watch and Taskmaster tasks to take part in."
Debs Middleton
"Called in here for an afternoon during the Summer Holidays, and glad we did. Lovely place, Castle is great to see after a wonderful walk through the magnificent gardens. Kids enjoyed exploring and took part in the Taskmaster challenge. Staff friendly, plenty of open space and we would definitely got back again."
john tilley
"This place is fantastic. Wondering around the Hall and Castle taking in the history. The Quarry gardens are fantastic too. Knowing all the stone came from the Quarry the build the hall. It is good for the kids as well, plenty of exploring. There is a adventure playground as well. The café are a nice place to relax and have something to eat and drink. Toilets are very clean and modern. The staff are very friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. The weather was not brilliant, rained on and off but still enjoyed it. I will definitely be back next time I am up here.
15,07,25."
Steve Ayres
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Morpeth. While public transport options are limited, driving is the most convenient way to reach Belsay Hall Northumberland. Parking is available on-site.
Yes, Belsay Hall is dog friendly, but dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. This makes it a great option for visitors with canine companions looking for a walk.
There is ample parking available at Belsay Hall, making it easy for visitors arriving by car. The parking area is usually close to the entrance, offering convenience.
Visiting Belsay Hall without a car can be challenging due to its rural location. While taxis are an option, they can be expensive. Checking local bus routes is advisable, but driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Belsay Hall offers a toddler-friendly walk and is generally manageable for elderly visitors. However, some areas, like the castle ruins, may present challenges. It's best to check with English Heritage Belsay for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Belsay Hall opening times vary by season. It's essential to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date Belsay Hall opening hours and Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens opening times before your visit.
Belsay Hall admission prices can be found on the English Heritage website. Booking tickets in advance online is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your entry and potentially save time.
While not always mandatory, booking Belsay Hall tickets in advance is advisable, particularly for special events or during busy periods. This ensures entry and can sometimes offer a slight discount.
Belsay Hall events are regularly scheduled, ranging from historical talks to family activities. Check the 'Events' section on the English Heritage Belsay Hall website for upcoming Belsay Hall events.
Yes, if you are a member of English Heritage, you can typically access Belsay Hall Castle & Gardens as part of your membership benefits. This is a great perk for frequent visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens, you can explore the unfurnished Hall, the medieval castle ruins, and the stunning quarry and heritage gardens. There are also adventure playgrounds and seasonal activities like Taskmaster challenges.
Belsay Hall is very good for kids! They can enjoy exploring the castle, the 'Jurassic Park'-like quarry garden, and the adventure playground. Taskmaster challenges also add an element of fun.
The Belsay Hall quarry garden is a dramatic and lush landscape carved from a former stone quarry. It's a unique and immersive experience, often described as feeling like stepping into a different world.
Yes, there are lovely walking paths throughout Belsay Hall, including through the heritage gardens, the quarry garden, and around the castle ruins. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Yes, Belsay Hall has clean and modern toilet facilities available for visitors, ensuring a comfortable experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Belsay Hall has a cafe, often referred to as the castle tearoom or cafe, where you can enjoy refreshments, cakes, and light meals. It's a nice place to relax.
The Belsay Hall cafe typically offers a selection of cakes, hot and cold drinks, and light meals. Visitors have praised the delightful cakes.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally acceptable to bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas at Belsay Hall. However, purchasing from the cafe supports the site.
Belsay Hall offers open spaces that are suitable for picnics, allowing families and groups to enjoy their own food amidst the beautiful surroundings.
The Belsay Hall cafe opening hours usually align with the main site's opening times, but it's always best to confirm on the day of your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the striking facade of the unfurnished Hall, the atmospheric medieval castle ruins, and the lush, dramatic landscapes of the quarry garden. The heritage gardens also offer beautiful seasonal shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside Belsay Hall for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or in certain exhibition areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography at Belsay Hall, creating a softer glow and fewer shadows. The 'golden hour' can make the gardens particularly magical.
Drone usage is typically restricted at English Heritage sites like Belsay Hall to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. Always check the official site's policy before flying a drone.
The dramatic scale of the quarry garden, the architectural lines of the Hall, and the ruggedness of the castle ruins provide unique and memorable photo opportunities that stand out.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are also plenty of open spaces for kids to explore, and the walking paths are generally manageable for toddlers. The cafe offers a convenient spot to refuel, making Belsay Hall an excellent choice for a fun and engaging family day out in Northumberland.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
It's a peaceful place to reflect and enjoy the scenery. The cafe is a nice spot to relax with a book or simply people-watch. The well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate and enjoy a substantial walk without feeling rushed.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Explore the different periods of construction and imagine life within these structures. The surrounding gardens also have historical significance, reflecting changing horticultural trends. It’s a site that truly allows you to immerse yourself in different eras of British history and architectural evolution.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvels: Hall vs. Castle
In contrast, the medieval castle ruins offer a glimpse into a much older era. These atmospheric remains speak of defense, daily life, and centuries of history. Exploring the castle allows visitors to connect with the past in a tangible way, imagining the lives of those who once inhabited its walls. The contrast between the refined Hall and the rugged Castle is a key part of the Belsay Hall experience.
Together, the Hall and Castle provide a rich historical and architectural journey, appealing to a wide range of interests. The unfurnished nature of the Hall encourages personal interpretation, while the castle’s ruins invite historical contemplation.
Exploring the Enchanting Gardens
The Quarry Garden is perhaps the most unique and talked-about feature. Carved from a former stone quarry, this dramatic, lush space feels almost otherworldly, with steep sides and a sense of discovery around every corner. Visitors often compare the experience to walking through a prehistoric landscape, akin to 'Jurassic Park.'
Beyond these, Belsay Hall also features an adventure playground, making it a fantastic destination for families. The combination of architectural wonders and these varied, immersive gardens ensures a memorable visit for all ages.
Family Adventures at Belsay Hall
A major highlight for younger visitors is the adventure playground, designed to keep them entertained for hours. Furthermore, Belsay Hall often hosts special family-friendly events, such as the popular Taskmaster challenges, which add an extra layer of fun and interaction. The Quarry Garden, with its dramatic landscape, also feels like an adventure playground in itself, encouraging exploration and wonder.
With plenty of open space and toddler-friendly walking paths, Belsay Hall is well-equipped to handle families with young children. The on-site cafe also provides a convenient spot for refreshments, making it an ideal day out for the whole family.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit