Appleby Castle
Castle Medieval castle in Cumbria with preserved Norman keep
In Cumbria, a medieval castle with Norman foundations and later additions open for tours and events; visitors explore historic rooms, battlements and the surrounding riverside town.
Appleby Castle is a medieval castle in the market town of Appleby-in-Westmorland in Cumbria, England. The site includes a Norman motte and later stone building phases that reflect development from the medieval period.
Historically the castle functioned as a local stronghold and residence for regional lords; surviving buildings incorporate a mix of defensive and residential features. It stands beside the River Eden within the historic core of Appleby-in-Westmorland and is a visible element of the town’s historic skyline.
Geographically it is located in northern England’s county of Cumbria, in the Eden district, within the town of Appleby-in-Westmorland.
- Age: Parts of the surviving fabric date back to the medieval period, with a Norman motte and later stone structures forming the core of the site.
How to Get to Appleby Castle #
Appleby Castle is in Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria. The town is served by rail (Appleby station on the Settle-Carlisle line) and regional roads (A66). From the station it’s a short walk uphill into town and to the castle precincts.
Tips for Visiting Appleby Castle #
- If possible, attend a guided historical tour to hear anecdotes about the castle's medieval courtroom and prison cells.
- Check availability if hoping to stay - sections operate as hospitality venues at times and private events can close public access.
- Combine the visit with a walk into Appleby town to see the Moot Hall and the river views.
Best Time to Visit Appleby Castle #
Best in late spring through early autumn for full visitor access and calmer roads.
Weather & Climate near Appleby Castle #
Appleby Castle's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 19°C. Abundant rainfall (1028 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (111 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
