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The castle, said to be one of Britains most haunted, is set in some magnificent grounds with a commanding view over its surroundings. The current building evolved from a Pele Tower, built to repel marauding Scots.

In 1208 the land was granted to the Pennington family, and is still their home, probably only due to the magical 'Luck of Muncaster' a drinking bowl belonging to Henry VI. He gave it to the family in 1464 declaring that as long as it remained intact, Penningtons would live and thrive at Muncaster.

Bluebells cover acres of meadow in late April

Famous for its rhododendrons and bluebells the acres of gardens are a feast of smells, colours and beauty, whatever the time of year.

You can even take your four legged friend into the gardens.

Haunted by the Fool

Paranormal researchers often come to the Castle to seek explanations of strange happenings such as sudden temperature changes and doors moving.

Many tales revolve around a character called Tom Fool.

Tom is never seen, but his spirit continues to play tricks on people at Muncaster.

Hauntings often occur in The Tapestry Room.

A child is frequently heard crying towards the window end of the room, and sometimes a lady heard singing, comforting a sick child. Visitors have also felt cold in the room for no apparent reason.

Looking from the castle towards the River Esk

Other stories concern the 'Muncaster Boggle' or White Lady who haunts the gardens and roadways around Muncaster. She is supposedly the ghost of Mary Bragg, a young girl murdered in the early 1800s on the road near the Main Gate.

Home of the World Owl Trust

Muncaster is also the headquarters of the World Owl Trust. Here you will find one of the largest collections of owls in the county.

The centre is home to a diverse range of birds, from fish owls to pygmy owls, which are not much bigger than a sparrow.

There are also buzzards, kestrels and red kites and a daily flying display on the Castle lawns.

Contact details
Muncaster Castle
Ravenglass
Cumbria
CA18 1RQ