Built / Designed For: Sir Thomas de Lucy

House & Family History: Probably the finest tower house in Northumberland, Langley Castle was built circa 1350, during the reign of Edward III. The earls of Derwentwater (viscounts Langley) acquired the estate in the 17th century. James, the 3rd Earl, and Charles, his brother, took part in the Jacobite risings of 1715. They were executed at the Tower of London for their involvement in "The 15." A cross stands by the road from the castle to Haydon Bridge commemorating their loyalty to the Jacobite cause. After "the 15" the property was confiscated by the crown and its administration passed to the Royal Naval Hospital at Greenwich in London. In 1882 local Northumbrian historian Cadwallader Bates purchased Langley; he made the restoration of the castle to its original 14th century state his life's work. After his death in 1902 his wife, Josephine, carried on his work, rebuilding the original chapel on the castle roof in memory of her husband. Josephine died in 1933 and was buried alongside her husband in the castle grounds.

Comments: Langley is considered the finest tower house in Northumberland.

House Listed: Grade I

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: Sir Thomas de Lucy, 14th century. Henry Percy, 4th Earl of Northumberland, 15th century. Francis Radclyffe, 1st Earl of Derwentwater, 17th century. Cadwallader Bates, 19th-20th centuries.

Current Ownership Type: Individual / Family Trust

Primary Current Ownership Use: Hotel

Ownership Details: Today Langley Castle Hotel

House Open to Public: By Appointment

Phone: 01434-688-888

Fax: 01434-684-019

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.langleycastle.co.uk

Awards: Pride of Northumbria's Best Small Hotel

Historic Houses Member: No