Dunstanburgh Castle is one of the main locations in The Lady’s Protector (Highland Bodyguards, Book 1). Lots of real history brought this location to life in the story! Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster is responsible for the creation of the castle. He commissioned its construction, which sits on the North Sea coast in Northumberland, in 1313.
Part display of Lancaster’s power and wealth, part defensive stronghold against English King Edward II’s reach, Dunstanburgh is situated on a promontory that juts into the North Sea, thus giving it only one side as a point of entry. That side boasts three artificial lakes to protect the castle, and a curtain wall which encloses almost ten acres of land, making it the largest castle in Northumberland. Several towers were built to provide lookout points and protection for the castle, including the formidable three-story gatehouse tower.
But after decades of construction and costs that were no doubt hefty even for the second richest man in England (behind only the King), Lancaster may have only ever visited the castle once or twice in his lifetime. The castle now stands in ruins, but its majesty, then and now, is still on full display!
To see Dunstanburgh Castle come to life in the form of a romantic story, check out The Lady’s Protector.