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The present day building evolved from the 14th-century Pele Tower. Numerous extensions followed throughout the coming centuries, notably the Great Hall, elegant Dining Room and the prized Octagonal Library, which now contains approximately 6,000 books. The most infamous addition was the Tapestry Room, which is said to be the most haunted room in the castle. Reported paranormal phenomena include, guests hearing footsteps, the sounds of a crying child and a singing woman, and inexplicable changes of room temperature. Those brave enough to stay here can take advantage of the castle's all-night vigil in the room - the culmination of its 'Ghost Sit' tour. You may even be 'fortunate' enough to see the spectre of Thomas Skelton, aka Tom Fool. Tom was the jester at Muncaster in the 15th century, and is said to have caused as much havoc in life as he allegedly does in death. It's told that he would sit beneath an overhanging tree, which still stands in the grounds today, where travellers would approach wishing to know the way to London. If he disliked them he would send them in the wrong direction - to the nearby quicksands.
| If you dare not step foot inside the castle, you can always stick with the magnificent gardens. Unlike many English castles and grand houses' gardens, Muncaster's aren't meticulously kept, but practically wild, sprawling over 77 acres of undulating terrain. Spring and summer sees the grounds burst into spectacular colour, with thousands of rhododendrons, bluebells, azaleas and camellias blooming in the Himalayan Gardens. However, the Terrace Walk, described by John Ruskin as "The Gateway to Paradise", is worth experiencing whatever the time of year. The onsite Plant Centre offers the largest stocks of rhododendrons in the north of England; helpfully, a mail order service is available. |
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The attractions don't stop there, however. Kids will love the Meadow Vole Maze, where they can experience life as a two-inch-tall meadow vole trying to find its way home through giant grasses, flowers and butterflies. Then there's the Owl Centre, which is home to some 48 species/subspecies of owls, from the unusual Brown Fish Owls to the tiny Pygmy Owls. A daily flying display takes place on the castle lawns, and there's a chance to 'Meet the Birds', which also include buzzards, kestrels and red kites.
Muncaster Castle lies approximately 1 mile east of Ravenglass on the north west coast, just off the A595.
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