This month we are celebrating the phenomenal Warkworth Castle and its amazing part in Northumberland history.
Warkworth Castle has been a part of many important moments in British history. From its first high-status resident in the 9th century when Osbert, King of Northumbria, gave the estate to the Earls of Northumbria. Then in 1174 all the inhabitants were slayed by William the Lion of Scotland. It was 1199 when Robert fitz Roger rebuilt the castle in grand style. Grand enough for a king to visit, King John visited in 1213. From there the Castle played a major role as a border fortress in the Scottish Wars of Independence in the early 14th century.
After this Warkworth Castle was gifted to Henry Percy of Alnwick. Over the next few centuries history saw Warkworth taken and retaken, seized by the Crown and restored to the Percys time and time again. Centuries later Henry Percy the 9th Earl of Northumberland was implicated in the Gunpowder Plot. Leaving Warkworth Castle in the hands of Sir Ralph who allowed the castle to fall into disrepair.
Despite the castle’s centuries of battles it is a stunning sight to see today!
Our Warkworth Collection
Alfie Joey has captured the unique silhouette of Warkworth castle against his take on a purple sunset sky.
Sarah Farooqi has created this picturesque view of Warkworth castle just before sunrise on the River Coquet. With mute swan and the last stars as the sun rises in the distance.
Graham Caffull has created this piece, painted on a vintage 1965 Ordnance Survey map of Alnwick using watercolour and ink. The beautiful scenery surrounding Warkworth Castle, from colourful houses, to luscious trees and clear water.
Barbara Bowden has chosen a view of the castle that shows more of the river Coquet in this tranquil original oil on canvas.
See more of the artwork we have showcasing the beautiful Warkworth castle when you visit the gallery or see online here
