Piel Castle
Cumbria, England
Key facts
- Operator
- English Heritage
- Condition
- Partial ruin
- Access
- Free, open access
- Nearest station
- Roose, 3.8 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
Piel Castle, Walney, Barrow-in-Furness, Piel Island LA13 0QN
Telephone 0800 015 0516
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Visitor essentials
- Dogs
- Dogs on leads are welcome.
- Safety
- Hazards on site include deep water and sheer drops near the ruins.
The largest castle ruins in North West England, on a tidal island reached only by seasonal ferry from Roa Island - a genuinely odd, out-of-the-way trip that reviewers rate as much for the crossing as the castle. The island's pub, the Ship Inn, comes with its own tradition: the landlord is crowned 'King of Piel'.
Worth the trip
The ferry crossing itself, complete with the ferryman's stories - reviewers say it's as memorable as the castle at the other end.
Before you go
The ferry runs seasonally and costs around £7 return in cash, paid on the boat - check it's running before you travel, and note camping is available on the island for around £5 a night with toilets on site.
All the available reviews for Piel Castle are enthusiastic, with visitors enjoying the ferry crossing to the island, the historic ruins, and the nearby pub run by the self-styled King of Piel. No complaints or caveats appear in the reviews, it's consistently described as an atmospheric, worthwhile trip.
On Piel Island; seasonal ferry from Roa Island
“Atmospheric Castle with a fascinating history. Nice ferry crossing to get to the Island.”- Mike Austin, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Facilities
- “Camping available at £5 per night ( with toilets) Had a nice walk around the island.” - Janet Rowbotham
For your visit
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gear
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots
A cushioned, waterproof mid-rise boot with a strong track record for all-day comfort - suits a site with grass banks, uneven steps and no shortage of walking. Solid underfoot for the clifftop walk at Piel Castle.
Find it on Amazon
gear
Ion8 Water Bottle, 500ml, Leak Proof, Secure Lock
A secure-lock lid rated genuinely leakproof - safe to toss loose into a bag alongside a camera or guidebook. Keeps you going during a full day exploring the castle.
Find it on Amazon
gear
RISEOFLE 43" Selfie Stick Tripod with Light
A built-in fill light helps on an overcast day or inside a dim great hall, where a phone camera alone tends to underexpose the shot. Keeps things to hand during a walk round the grounds.
Find it on Amazon
gear
Vinsani Foldable Picnic Blanket (260 x 220cm)
One of the larger blankets available, with sand- and waterproof backing and a carry strap for a bigger group spread out on the lawns. A good fit for a day out in Cumbria.
Find it on AmazonSee more picks like this in The Castle Shop →
Common questions about Piel Castle
Where is Piel Castle?
Piel Castle is in Cumbria, England, at Piel Castle, Walney, Barrow-in-Furness, Piel Island LA13 0QN.
Is Piel Castle free to visit?
Yes - Piel Castle is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by English Heritage. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
What is the highlight of visiting Piel Castle?
The ferry crossing itself, complete with the ferryman's stories - reviewers say it's as memorable as the castle at the other end.
Is Piel Castle a ruin or still intact?
Piel Castle is a partial ruin - On Piel Island; seasonal ferry from Roa Island.
