Imagine yourself on a boat, swaying gently with the river’s current, when suddenly, a striking silhouette emerges from the lush greenery along the Hudson River. That’s the first glimpse many get of Bannerman Castle, a place I want to showase for you today and show you how to explore it.
Info:
- Name: Bannerman Castle
- Location: Hudson Highlands State Park
- Cost to enter: $40 per person and up (access via kayak/boat tour)
- Distance from NYC: 1-2 hours
- Ideal time to visit for: 1 day
- Reviews: 4.9 out of 5
Overview:
Bannerman Castle is located on an island within the Hudson Valley. Access is only available via private tours by boat or kayak. Your visit will have you walking through the castle’s ruins, telling a story of time and transformation. This is one of the most fun places to visit on the Hudson Valley and one of the most famous castles in Upstate NY.
Planning your visit:
If you want to see Bannerman Castle up close, you’re going to need to plan ahead. The castle sits on Pollepel Island in the Hudson River, and accessing it means choosing the right mode of transportation. That’s going to include considering whether you want to take a kayak, a private boat, or a guided tour ferry from nearby towns like Beacon or Newburgh.
My tip is always to check the Bannerman Castle Trust website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and ticketing information. They offer a variety of tour experiences that often include a guide who will share in-depth historical anecdotes and insights about the castle. These tours typically run May-October due to the river’s conditions and weather.
Speaking of weather, you’re going to find out about why it’s a crucial aspect of your planning. Tour cancellations can occur due to inclement weather, which is more likely outside the recommended visiting period. Your safest bet is to keep an eye on the forecast and the Bannerman Trust’s announcements as your visit approaches.
Accessibility is key for a smooth experience; that’s why it’s important to note that the island isn’t fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments due to its rugged terrain. If you or someone you’re traveling with has such needs, contact the Bannerman Castle Trust in advance to discuss available accommodations.
When to go:
While May-October is when this attraction is open, there’s still more specific times to consider visiting as they offer their own benefits:
Spring, with its blooming flora, and autumn, showcasing a spectacular array of fall colors, offer stunning backdrops for your castle visit. Summer is also not bad but keep in mind the weather can get uncomfortably hot then.
Bannerman Castle hosts various events that can make your visit even more special. From theatrical performances to art exhibits, there’s often something unique happening. Keep an eye on the Bannerman Castle Trust’s events calendar to plan for these limited opportunities. Certain events include Halloween specials, violin attractions, dinners and more.
Anticipating crowd patterns is key to a serene visit. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more tranquil exploration. Early morning or late afternoon tours offer softer light for your photos, while also sidestepping the busiest times of day.
Photography enthusiasts will find the changing light at the castle captivating. Whether it’s the early morning mist or the golden hour of sunset, Bannerman Castle takes on different personalities throughout the day. Choosing the right time can lead to that perfect, Instagram-worthy snapshot and here’s some photos of that to showcase it:
Maximizing your visit:
The area around Bannerman Castle is ripe with opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Think about combining your castle tour with other local attractions and here’s just some to consider:
- Visiting the towns of Cold Spring or Beacon
- Outdoor activities in the Hudson Highlands. You can hit the trails at Breakneck Ridge, Mount Beacon or even a short visit to places like Little Stony Point make for some of the best hiking in the state.
There’s no shortage of great eateries in Beacon or Cold Spring where you can fuel up after a day’s adventure. Cozy cafes, farm-to-table restaurants, and riverside dining spots offer something to satisfy any craving.
And as for the hikes/outdoor activies, you’ll get some amazing trails and panoramic views of the Hudson River that are nothing short of breathtaking (and that includes from Bannerman Castle itself).
As for accommodations, there’s something for every taste and budget be it a charming bed and breakfast, a boutique hotel, or a rustic campground. This area is known for its welcoming hospitality, so rest assured you’ve got options if you wish to stay overnight or even a few more days.
A visit to Bannerman Castle seamlessly blends history, nature, and culture and it’s an awesome day trip spot to explore. For NYC goers, I strongly recommend coming here at least once if you can and really partaking not just by exploring the castle itself but also the other spots I listed above.