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Walk Details
The ruined remains of Brough Castle, located between Kirby Stephen and Brough, just off the A685, is very accessible, making it a great place to visit. It has free parking in the village and its elevated position offers the ideal view point over the Eden Valley. Now owned by English Heritage, it is a free attraction and has something to offer for the whole family, from a lovely well equipped children’s play area to a fabulous ice cream parlour and coffee house.
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From the carpark there are is a good network of paths leading to the castle, which is ideal for wheelchairs. The ground within the castle walls is however very uneven, but the good old WHILL glided over the cobbled floor and I was able to explore most of the ruins.
It was around 1100 that Brough castle was built, following a successful campaign by William Rufus to gain English control of this area that had once belonged to Scotland.However, by 1254 the castle was left empty and neglected. The castle was restored in the 17th century by Lady Anne Clifford who made it more into a home than a fortress.
As history goes, the castle was accidentally burnt down following a ‘great Christmas party’ in 1521. Though the castle is in ruins there is still plenty to see and the information boards around the grounds provide a good read.
Having soaked up the history of the castle, it was time to try out one of the 16 homemade ice creams that are on offer at the ice cream parlour and tea room. The tearoom is fully wheelchair accessible.
Deb’s verdict –
The Whill did fab! It glided over the uneven ground within the castle walls and a I was able to leave the paths and travel across the grassy banks so that I could take in the stunning views of the Eden Valley (taking care not to wheel through all the sheep pooh!).
Brough
Kirkby Stephen
CA17 4EJ
Nearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Penrith
