Creatures Take Over Bamburgh Castle in Fun
New Sculpture Trail
Sculpture Mandy Bryson whose Tails and Tales indoor trail opens at Bamburgh Castle - image by Charlotte Graham
Whiskers, wings and wise sayings are arriving at Bamburgh Castle as a brand-new indoor trail transforms its historic staterooms into a world of curious characters.
A cast of quirky creatures is taking up residence throughout the Northumberland fortress, ready to share a few tales of their own. The menagerie of sculptures has been installed ahead of the launch of Tails & Tales, which opens this weekend.
The trail weaves through the castle’s magnificent staterooms, bringing well-known sayings to life through a series of whimsical designs. From early birds to slow-and-steady snails, each handcrafted sculpture represents a familiar phrase, inviting visitors to guess the saying behind every character.
Inspired by Bamburgh Castle’s long-standing association with curiosity, invention and the natural world, Tails & Tales draws on the legacy of William George Armstrong, later Lord Armstrong, the Victorian innovator who purchased the castle in 1894. A passionate admirer of animals and nature, Armstrong’s fascination with the natural world shaped both his life and his work.
The sculptures have been created by Northumbrian artist Mandy Bryson. Working in clay, mixed media and textiles, Bryson imbues each creature with distinctive character and charm. Inspired by traditional sayings, childhood memories and a lifelong love of wildlife, her creations invite visitors to slow down, look again and rediscover the stories hidden in everyday language.
Images by Charlotte Graham
Designed to appeal to all ages, the experience also includes a ‘Creature Quest’, encouraging visitors to spot playful details and unexpected objects as they explore the castle’s rooms and passageways.
Francis Watson-Armstrong, owner of Bamburgh Castle, said:
“Bamburgh Castle has always been a place full of stories and surprises. It’s the perfect setting for Tails & Tales, which celebrates our affection for animals, imagination and storytelling.
“Mandy’s cast of wonderfully quirky creatures is extraordinary. I’m sure they’ll bring a smile to people’s faces and, like us, visitors will have fun guessing the sayings behind the characters.”
Tails & Tales opens at Bamburgh Castle on Saturday, February 14, when the castle reopens daily from 10am.
The trail runs until October and is included with general admission.