Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in Northumberland offers a fascinating and largely mobility friendly heritage experience, combining a medieval castle, a striking 19th century Greek Revival mansion and beautifully landscaped gardens within one historic estate. Visitors can explore the atmospheric castle keep and great hall, step inside the grand pillared rooms of the later hall, and wander through the dramatic quarry garden, formal terraces and woodland paths. The variety of architecture and scenery makes it an engaging day out for history lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

Accessibility is thoughtfully integrated across the site to support a wide range of visitors. The on site car park includes 14 designated disabled parking spaces, located around 200 metres from the main visitor area. Although the car park and many of the paths are gravelled, there are no steep gradients and only a very gentle slope along the west quarry path. A gradient map is available from the shop to help plan suitable routes. The castle and manor house can be reached via a 700 metre path through the gardens, and ramped access is provided to the ground floors of both buildings, though some upper levels and historic spaces may have limited access due to the nature of the structures. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge.

Accessible toilets are located in the café and in the car park toilet block, with features including handrails, lever taps and side transfer space. A fully equipped Changing Places toilet is available in the car park block, providing a height adjustable adult sized bench, ceiling hoist, peninsular toilet, adjustable washbasin, emergency alarm and privacy screen. RADAR key access supports level routes into the hall via the tearoom entrance and into the gardens via the toilet gate. Visitors can also access audio described tours with hand held devices, tactile map booklets and large print guides from the admissions desk. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the grounds, with water bowls and designated bins provided on site.

With its blend of historic architecture, tranquil gardens and well considered accessibility features, Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens offers an inclusive and enriching day out in the North East.