Grade 1 listed castle and cascade near Wetheral
Above the River Eden near Wetheral, the landscaped woodlands of Corby Castle offer a glimpse into centuries of history and transformation. These elegant grounds were first laid out in the 18th century by Thomas Howard, the estate’s owner at that time.
Though it may not resemble a castle today, Corby Castle’s roots stretch back to the 11th century, when a wooden stronghold stood on this site. By the 13th century, it had been replaced by a stone pele tower, a fortified structure typical of the turbulent borderlands. In 1812, Henry Howard reimagined the building entirely, cloaking the medieval tower behind a graceful classical façade, complete with a striking Doric portico—the face of the castle we see today.
In more recent times, the estate was further enhanced by Edward Haughey, later known as Lord Ballyedmond, who added a stone walkway along the riverbank, offering visitors a serene path with breathtaking views.
One of the estate’s most captivating features is the Grade I listed cascade, a dramatic 30-metre cascade of water that once fed a grand fountain.
Visible from across the River Eden, it’s a highlight for walkers heading south from Wetheral along the public footpath—a perfect reward for those exploring this historic landscape.
