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Location
near Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham, England
Description
Lumley Castle is a 14th century quadrangular castle at Chester-le-Street, near Durham in the north of England. It is owned by the Earl of Scarbrough. In 1976, management of the castle was handed over to No Ordinary Hotels (although the property is still in the possession of Lord Scarbrough). Lumley Castle Hotel has 73 bedrooms, including 14 new Courtyard rooms. Their is a choice of accommodation including Courtyard and Castle rooms. The castle is surrounded by parklands overlooking the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground,
History
Lumley Castle was converted from a manor house to a castle in 1389 by Sir Ralph Lumley after returning from wars in Scotland. Sir Ralph got himself involved in aplot to overthrow King Henry IV and replace him with Richard II - he was imprisoned and executed for his trouble. In the 19th century, the castle became the residence of the Bishop of Durham. Later, the castle became a hall of residence for University College, Durham.
Legends
Lumley Castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Lily Lumley, the wife of Sir Ralph wo was murdered by local priests and dumped in the castle well. The well can still be seen today.
Other Castles in the Area
Auckland Castle, Co. Durham
Belsay Castle, Northumberland
Newcastle Castle Keep, Tyne and Wear
Prudhoe Castle, Northumberland
Tynemouth Castle, Tyne and Wear
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