Aydon Castle is not actually a true castle but a 13th-century English fortified manor house. Originally built as an undefended residence, it was fortified on the outbreak of Anglo-Scottish warfare.

Fortifications didn’t help as it was pillaged and burnt by the Scots in 1315, seized by English rebels two years later, and again occupied by Scots in 1346. The castle was later converted into a farmhouse in the 17th century and remained one until 1966.

You can explore the castle rooms and battlements before walking around the flat grassed areas and walled orchard. A good option when combined with Corbridge Roman Town, another nearby English heritage site.