Castle Keep is one of the few remaining parts of the medieval castle that played a prominent role in the history of Newcastle. It is an iconic structure in the heart of the city with a gruesome and fascinating history. Tour the large rooms and the dungeon for exhibits on the castle’s dark past.
Enter the structure and take a tour to get a sense of its majesty. Climb to the higher floors for excellent views of the river and its bridges. Peruse the displays on the intriguing history of the tower and the rest of the castle. The exhibits allow visitors to imagine life in the structure almost 1,000 years ago.
Hear grim stories about the castle and its horrible punishments, including one about a flying donkey. Listen to tales about the Poppy Girl, now a ghost haunting the tower after being beaten to death in the castle prison.
Attend one of the events held regularly in the keep. These include lectures, murder mystery nights, movie showings and other entertaining activities.
Learn about the facts behind the site. The city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne takes its name from the structure, which was once a new castle on the River Tyne. It was built in the 12th century and restored in the 1800s.
The tower is 75 feet (23 metres) south of the Black Gate, which is the only other surviving section of the castle. It became a slum lodging in the early 1800s and housed about 60 people at one time.
Pay a fee for a ticket that includes the Castle Keep and the Black Gate. Children get a discount, while toddlers enter for free. The site is open daily between morning and early evening.
Castle Keep is just north of the River Tyne in the centre of the city. Arrive at Newcastle Central Station and walk east for about 5 minutes to reach the tower and the gate. It is near other important attractions such as the Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas, the Newcastle Arts Centre and Sage Gateshead.
