Following an enjoyable stay at Ordiefork in Midmar it was time to head back home. However Sarah and I decided to prolong our break a little longer by taking an overnight stop at Bamburgh.

Bamburgh is of course best known for its castle and we had cycled past it on our Coast and Castles South tour a few years previously.

We were staying at The Sunningdale Hotel near to the castle.

After booking in we decided on a little walk. It was rather cold and windy.

Though Sarah hadn’t been feeling too well for a few days, as can be seen from the photo, she was particularly struggling today.

Still, she is a determined lass and continued on gamely as we headed down to the beach and walked around the castle perimeter!

After the walk we returned to the village and visited the Castle Inn for a hearty evening meal.

The following morning after breakfast (and with Sarah feeling much better) we set off to visit the castle itself.

On the way we also passed St Aidan’s the local church, and the Grace Darling Museum.

Then we moved on to the castle.

Again it was a windy day!

There has been a castle in Bamburgh since at least the 12th century and for much of its life it has been in private ownership. The castle was purchased by William Armstrong (of engineering and aeronautical fame) in the 19th century and his successors remain the owners to this day.

Within the walls of the castle is a museum outlining the contribution of William Armstrong to science, engineering and the local community.

Next we moved in to the State Rooms and the first item of interest we came across was a ‘Boneshaker’ – we are just glad technology has advanced enough to improve on these!

The rest of the rooms proved equally interesting, especially the King’s Hall.

And the Cross Hall at the top end of the King’s Hall.

Next came the Billiard Room and The Faire Chamber.

And then the Armoury (ironically built originally as a chapel).

  

And Court Room, which presented a fabulous view looking out to sea.

Finally we made our way down to the basement.

Finally it was time to have some lunch.

And then head for home.

Sarah informed me Bamburgh wasn’t the place (or castle) she had in mind when she booked. Nonetheless we thoroughly enjoyed our short stay.