Now that everything is so mapped and documented, it's rare to find somewhere magical, forgotten, almost as if it exists in a parallel universe. Whorlton Castle is a perfect destination for a short mystery trip, game of hide and seek or the setting for your next romantic novel. It was built in the 12th/13th century on land owned by William the Conqueror's half-brother, and built to overlook an important road on the edge of what is now the North York Moors National Park.
It's had a chequered history and is now privately owned, but you can easily visit (free) and explore. At the entrance to the ruined sandstone gatehouse you'll see three shields, presenting the arms of the three families associated with the 14th century history of the castle. The gatehouse rises to three stories, with the ancient grooves of the old portcullis visible. Inside you can climb part of a stone spiral staircase to look through the slit window to the surrounding countryside, noticing the fireplaces and small guardrooms. A short distance from the gatehouse are the old cellars.
Whorton Castle is close to Swainby village and only a few moments from the busy A19 - it really does exist in a parallel universe.
Thanks to Steve Christian for the photo