North East - Northumberland

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BELSAY HALL, CASTLE & GARDENS

Belsay, Near Ponteland,
Northumberland
NE20 0DX
t: 01661 881636
e: belsay.hall@english-heritage.org.uk
w: www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsayhall

Belsay’s unique mix of architecture offers a many layered slice of English history. Groups can explore a succession of mansions spanning four centuries; from a 14th-century castle, via a Jacobean mansion wing, to a noble Regency Greek Revival hall - all linked by 20 acres of heritage gardens. The magical Quarry Garden, created where stone was cut in 1807 for the hall, was designed with ravines, pinnacles and sheer rock faces, inspired by Sicilian quarries. Now, centuries later, its exotic plants have reached full maturity. Whatever time of year your group visits Belsay, there’s always something colourful in bloom.


  • Discover the medieval castle, with its imposing tower, built as a strong refuge during the centuries of Anglo-Scottish border warfare.
     
  • Admire the fine craftsmanship of the elegant Grecian style hall, inspired by an aristocrat’s honeymoon in Athens. Displayed without furnishings, it’s arranged round an imposing central Pillar Hall.
     
  • Soak up the sights and smells in the vast gardens, with their nationally important plant collections.

 

TIE IT INTO YOUR TRIP

Close to Hadrian’s Wall, Belsay is also just off the ‘scenic route’ from Newcastle to the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh.