We have also been trying to get a response from Naworth Castle. After many attempts, we have done some research of our own.
In
the absence of a Q & A with the
present owners of Naworth Castle, let's talk about the location in part III of
our series of GREEN DARKNESS locations.
Naworth
Castle, known as "Naward" in historical documents, traces its
origins back to the late 1200s or 1335 depending on the source your reference.
In GREEN DARKNESS it is located in Scotland, but today it's officially listed
as being in Cumbria, England, a mere 10 miles from today's Scottish Border.
Ownership of the 2,000 acre estate changed hands several times over the 700 years of its existence, starting with the Baron Dacre. The present owner Philip Howard is the 13th Earl of Carlisle, one in a long line of Earls.
This
romantic stronghold is not open to the public as a day-to-day hotel, but
exclusive overnight stays can be arranged for a minimum of 10-18 people who
will stay in the bedrooms in the Dacre, Morpeth, and Lord William's towers and
the courtyard rooms.
Tours
can also be arranged to see the 2 pre-Raphaelite libraries, Medieval dungeons,
Great Hall, and Lord William's bedchamber. Philip Howard will serve as your
guide. Weddings performed at the estate have been scaled back since 2002 when
it reverted to being just a private home. That said, official ceremonies have
still been known to happen at Naworth from April - September.
Films
and TV productions have used Naworth as a shooting location since the 1980s.
The castle's medieval exterior and grounds need little or no dressing for
period pieces, as does the adjoining walled garden with its 17th century feel.
The 20 rooms in the west wing have been stripped down to the original
stonework, making them perfect for authentic, interior sets.
We wonder what Anya Seton would think of Naworth Castle in the light of today's ongoing improvements -- something tells us, she might have had her characters spend more time at this grand estate.
It looks like a wonderfully atmospheric location. Don't you agree?
Till next time~~
Marla and Angela
