Brougham Castle lies on the banks of the river Eamont near the town of Penrith in the county of Cumbria in England.

Brougham Castle itself dates back to the 13th century but the site was in use much earlier. It was built on the site of a former Roman fort just like nearby Brough Castle. It has an impressive gatehouse and a large keep which you can climb to the top using a spiral staircase.

The castle was in the hands of the Clifford family for many years and has seen its share of action. It was attacked by the Scots during the Scottish wars which started in 1296. In 1388 the castle was sacked during a Scottish raid after which it is not known to have been back in use until 1421.

Brougham Castle was important in the War of the Roses as Lancastrian Cliffords and Yorkist Nevilles competed for dominance in northwest England. In the 16th century the castle was increasingly neglected.

In 1605 however the castle came back to life for a short period until 1617 when it was visited by King James I and his court.

It fell into neglect again until 1650 when it was restored by Lady Anne Clifford. But after her death in 1676 the life of the castle was over. For in 1714 all furnishings, fittings and roofs were sold after which it quickly fell into ruin.

The castle is now in the care of English Heritage. It's a great castle that is very nice to visit.

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