Muncaster Castle
Polly Checkland Harding
There are few things kids will enjoy more than a haunted castle, and Muncaster, one of the highlights of the Western Lake District, is exactly that. Originally a medieval building, Muncaster has experienced many additions, alterations and refurbishments over the centuries, giving the place a rich historical texture. In 1885 Lord Muncaster commissioned Anthony Slavin to recreate the castle as we see it today.
Pele Tower, Great Hall, Guardroom – it’s the kind of environment that your family will love to explore. Guided tours are available as well as audio tours which tell the story of the spaces and artefacts in front of you. In particular, watch out for Tom Fool, i.e. Tom Skelton, the 16th Century court jester who was something of a rogue. While in theory, Tom Fool passed away many centuries ago, there is talk of him hanging around and causing trouble to this very day.
He’s not the only thing haunting the grounds. The Hawk & Owl Centre, found in the gardens of Muncaster Castle, is host to many strange and beautiful birds of prey. You can visit them in the aviary or watch them take part in games and displays on the lawn, and kids can learn all about these majestic creatures with whom we share our world.
Muncaster is set in 77 acres of historic gardens. Some of these are the formal gardens you’d expect, but the majority of the site is wild, hilly, and mysterious. It’s recommended to visit in spring and early summer, when the flowers come to life.
