The Castle Keep and Black Gate in Newcastle upon Tyne are remnants of a once formidable medieval fortress. Construction began in 1168 under Henry II, with additions made in the 13th and 14th centuries. The Keep, the castle’s stronghold, features thick walls, arrow slits, and a rooftop providing panoramic views of the city. The Black Gate, added in 1250, served as the barbican and housed a drawbridge and portcullis.

Throughout its history, the castle bore witness to conflicts and sieges. In 1644, during the English Civil War, the Royalist-held castle fell to Scottish forces after heavy bombardment. Following centuries of neglect, a Victorian restoration program began in the 1800s.

Ghostly tales permeate the castle’s history. The Keep’s Gallery and Chapel are said to be haunted by a female spirit, possibly that of a young woman imprisoned there. Visitors have reported disembodied whispers, cold spots, and feelings of unease. The Queen’s Chamber is purportedly haunted by the ghost of Queen Isabella Edward II’s wife. The Black Gate is linked to the ghost of a soldier, seen standing by a window. Other reported phenomena include the sound of marching feet, unexplained mists, and shadowy figures. These stories, passed down through generations and experienced by visitors, contribute to the castle’s rich and eerie atmosphere, inviting those intrigued by the paranormal to explore its ancient stones and uncover the mysteries within.