With careful observation, the Garden State can transform into a realm where fairy tales come to life. Between the highways, farmlands, and beaches lies a series of historic mansions and modern palaces for guests to explore. Wealthy owners constructed many of NJ's castles during the Gilded Age. The late 19th century was a boom time for industrialists and capitalists, and it became fashionable to showcase one's wealth. Located on Garret Mountain overlooking the City of Paterson, this well-known landmark was once a private residence fashioned after an English castle, where my partner and I returned after undergoing 6 years of significant restoration work. Their website made it easy to book a reservation, ensuring reduced wait times, comfortable capacity management, and a smooth, welcoming visit for everyone. Built in 1892 and originally called Belle Vista, Lambert Castle was the domain of silk moguls Catholina and Isabella Lambert. It was constructed in the Medievel Revival architectural style out of local sandstone and granite. Lambert's fortune rose and fell with the silk industry, and he later auctioned off most of the works to pay his debts. Upon arrival at the visitor center, formerly the carriage house, we were greeted by the staff, where all guided tours begin, lasting 1 1/2 hours. Our guide was Mary Beth. She provided us wonderful information, pointed out small details like the door hinges or artwork, and answered our questions as a group of 19 patrons looked at each room much brighter. Unfortunately, photography is prohibited inside to preserve the interior for future visitors and make patrons appreciate what they were looking at. Lambert Castle serves as a physical time capsule that reflects the shifting fortunes, societal values, and architectural ambitions of the eras in which it was built and would be great for a visit. read more

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4/10/26 (Update) After many years, I was so excited to see the reopening of the refurbished Lambert Castle. You can purchase your tickets online or at the new visitors center. The admission tickets are $10. Zak was a wonderful tour guide. He gave us the history of the castle owners. In 1892, the castle was built by Catholina Lambert (the owner of the Paterson Silk Mills for his wife). Please see my original review for the history. We were informed "Not to photograph any of the interior in order to preserve the interior for future visitors". Upon entering the castle, you will be required to put booties on over your shoes. This is in order to preserve the floors. The castle does have 3 levels along with an elevator. In the foyer overhead, you'll see a magnificent colorful rectangle shaped Tiffany light fixture. It extends approximately 2' Wide and 6' in length. The furnishings were very elegant, yet very homey. All the rooms are filled with stunning sculptures and artwork. Some of items were on loan from different places. For example: The beautiful Grandfather clocks really caught my eye. They were on loan from the Ringwood Manor. (The Ringwood Manor is presently being refurbished and will be reopening soon). Hope everyone gets a chance to see this beautifully refurbished castle. Lambert Castle has two levels of parking. read more

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I usually do not update my reviews but after hearing about the reopening of Lambert Castle in January 2026 after a 5 year renovation project, I decided to visit and do an update review. Lambert Castle was built by Catholina Lambert in 1892 by an English immigrant who made his fortune in the silk industry in Paterson, New Jersey. The castle reflects the trappings of the Gilded Victorian Era. Lambert accrued a prominent American and European painting and sculpture collection which he showcased in a 100' x 35' art gallery. This luxurious residence was visited by notable rich and famous people of the day which included President William McKinley. Lambert Castle is listed on the New Jersey and National Register of Historical Places in 1976. Admission is $10. read more

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I have been monitoring the renovation of Lambert Castle.....for YEEEEARS...and the day has finally arrived for its grand opening! This weekend, February 28 and March 1, entrance to the castle will be free, and viewing times will be from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Lambert Castle, a Medieval Revival mansion built in 1892-1893 on Garret Mountain in Paterson, NJ, was the home of English immigrant and silk tycoon, Catholina Lambert. Originally named "Belle Vista," this historic landmark was constructed to showcase his vast art collection. Before entering the castle, we were given booties and many staff members were available to direct, provide details of the art and artifacts, and answer questions. Please, take note......NO INTERIOR PHOTOS ARE PERMITTED. You will be told, many times, about the NO PHOTOS mandate, so prepare to adhere. I personally enjoyed this, because it allowed everyone to enjoy all of the elegance with no distractions or delays. I'll put up this artwork against the gems at the Frick Collection, in NYC. Many are almost as large and all are tastefully displayed. Aside from the castle, you will have access to the Lambert Castle Visitor Center. There, you'll see information on events that will take place throughout the upcoming Spring/Summer on the property and beyond. I have been to many mansions/castles, but I give Lambert Castle high praise and recognition. They have taken their time with the renovation and you could see it throughout the castle, from floor to ceiling. Especially, when this is a major castle that is so close to New York City. After this weekend, the castle will be open Wednesdays to Sundays, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, for an entrance fee of $10.00/pp. read more

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This castle has been redone. There isn't any photography allowed inside. It is like stepping back in time. When you go in you have to put booties on over your shoes. There are tours that happen on the hour. It is $10 and they offer a special veteran/military discount which I fully respect. The staff is very knowledgeable and passionate about the castle and the history surrounding it. There are three floors with alot of really neat things to look at. The tour guide pointed out some of the more interesting points that you could easily overlook on your own. It is a definite must see point of interest. I am glad that I finally made it. read more

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I had never heard of Lambert Castle before today. I attended the Paterson preservation fair at Mary Ellen Kramer Park. They provided an air-conditioned bus up to Garrett mountain to get a sneak peek at Lambert castle during renovations. We were told that after the silk strike, the owner couldn't afford the house. It changed hands a few times between war and tuberculosis housing, creating a hodgepodge of designs. It is being polished up and presented as close to the original incarnate as possible. The wood floors, the wallpaper, the Stainglass windows and woodwork were stunning. Not much is in the house as far as furnishings, but what is present, is beautiful. The carriage house is gutted, so visiting that'll be a ways off, but the house will be a jewel when complete, and it should be soon. read more

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This is a most see. One of the few castles in new Jersey. Great history about the industrial revolution. Well kept grounds. I wish they provided audio tours or guided tours. read more

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Awesome museum and castle. 1) I always came here, but never went inside the museum. Thought the castle was impressive enough. Glad I spent the 5 bucks to go inside. 2) The museum is 3 floors, great place for history buffs. 3) Walking outside the castle is amazing as well. read more

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We visited the castle this Saturday as we are getting married in Paterson and considering it for pictures after the ceremony. It was empty but the museum was not open. We want to find out for our wedding day if we can take pics after 4 PM there and how the permits work. I saw a deer in the nearby forest! Pretty flowers too imagine in the summer it's even more beautiful. read more

it was really nice!!! I really enjoy walking thru the castle. It's $5 admission fee for adults btw read more

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Went for the holiday thing on a weekend. Lots, LOTS of people. Cool stuff to find though and the castle is amazing. Will go back sometime but maybe during the week since I'm sure I missed a lot structurally of what makes this place breathtaking. read more

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My family and I went here October 14 for the first time ... Although we were late the first half the tables were closing already that were set up on the lawn..They still had story telling time for the kids which was great .The bathroom was inside the building ( thank goodness) .. They had a vendor that was selling hotdogs, nachos and cheese, potato chips, apple cider.. and cookies .. (they only take cash) Before the event ended we got the chance to meet the headless horseman, which was impressive .. two of my nieces had fun and will do it again next year read more

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This place is simply beautiful. I went with my cousin to take graduation pics and though my time spent was limited to the outside of the castle and the immediate grounds, I feel in love. It was not only gorgeous but hardly anyone was there (it was a Thursday around 3:30 pm). The people that we did see (likely all frequenting locals) happen to be pleasant, which was quite the unexpected treat. The castle isn't very big but it is a sight that is easily enjoyed and makes you forget entirely that you're in Paterson, NJ. In essence the Castle transcends it's time & place. I would recommend that all those within a 50 mile radius & an accessible vehicle go ahead and add it on your to do list. It's a lovely, quick, beautiful, cheap day-trip to the past...it won't disappoint. NOTE: DON'T forget your camera. Also, it's a great place to go for a romantic walk. read more

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Lambert castle is a smaller size building located in Paterson right by Clifton border off of rt 80. It has three floors and a nice front yard and garden. It's pretty well reserved. When we got there, they had holiday boutique going on and the entrance fee ($6) and the overall prices for the merchandise were pretty reasonable. I don't know what the regular entrance fee is. It seems like they do not post much info online since we did not know about the boutique until we got there. No strollers were allowed inside since the space is a bit tight. Seems like the castle is closed after thanksgiving and will open again in January. Nothing is posted online though. It's a cute place to spend a nice afternoon so I ll be back. Parking space is tight and we had to park by the road which was alrighr read more

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If you are a history buff, or just like old mansions, this is a stop you should not miss. For a nominal fee, you get to see all three floors of the "castle", and it is well worth the money. read more

Lambert Castle - Lambert Castle, center hall - Museums Near Me - Paterson, New Jersey

Came here in the area for hiking with my girlfriend, the hiking part was very nice. After we were done, we went to Lambert Castle for about a 45 minute walk-through. It was nice, nothing incredibly special, but it was unique Experience. It was a one time thing to do for the experience, I will not go back again to Lambert Castle, but I will go hiking again in that area read more

Good lord, this place looks huge on the outside. It also has a teeny tiny parking lot around back, surrounded by a chain-link fence. Since this library seems to be in a much more urban area than other libraries of NJ, that makes sense. I guess the majority of their patrons walk there. I was actually library-hopping today, in hopes of finding some good dvds to watch, and since this one was on my way, I figured I'd give it a shot. Let me just say that this place has a lot of potential. It's got a beautiful structure and lots of natural light, courtesy of the floor to ceiling windows in the front. This place also has a relatively large African American books/authors section right in the front. This location has no dvds, though the librarian at the front desk seemed to imply that they were working on acquiring some. She recommended I go down the street and try the Clifton Library. Because this is an urban location, there do seem to be some transients who come in to the library for a rest. Take care when locking up your car and make sure your valuables are out of sight (as they always should be). read more

Definitely worth the $5 admission. A great piece of history right in Paterson. The woman at the door gave a short and sweet pitch about Mr. Lambert's life and a brief overview of the castle itself. The castle itself is beautiful, and it is worth taking a tour. read more

I adore this place, and am a history buff. I enjoy reading about what makes my town so special. For 5.00, you can enter! No strollers, leave that crap behind and go with another adult. A self guided tour can take 15 mins. Beautiful 3 floor mansion with the largest spoon collection in the country. The only draw back is how this place is used for weddings. I just wish history can be left alone but oh well-it's a money maker. They accept card and have senior discounts. Come look up the history of lambert yourself! I'm not spoiling it! read more

Beautiful building in the middle of a city. The view from the hill was smacking. The drive to the tower is also worth it as it's on a great park. There were deer running around, wSiting in treats-beautiful. read more

I was born in the Albion Place section of Clifton, NJ in 1932. My dad often took my sister and me for a walk to Lambert's Castle in the 1940's and early 50's.At that time, the castle was closed. Our Church CCD often went ice skating in a pond that was near the tower. I can remember during World War II the army stationed soldiers in and near the tower to watch over New York City and the surrounding area. I have a picture of me as a teenager standing next to one of the lions guarding the castle. My sister who lives in Pompton Lakes, NJ visited the museum and praised the renovations. Someday, I hope to revisit my childhood memory. The silk mills played an important part in the growth of Paterson, NJ. I recall some of the buildings being used as a clothing outlet for a few years after they closed. Thank you for bringing back the glory of Lambert's Castle and opeing it to the public. Estelle M. Wade-Crino. Ed.D Silver Creek, New York June 4, 2012 read more

Wonderful place to visit if you're interested in NJ history, historical houses, or art. In late March, the place was not crowded at all, and parking was easy. It's $5 to get in, and you get to see several of the rooms. It can take 15 min to an hour, depending on whether you stop to read the descriptions or look at the moulding and stuff like that. (I realized after I stepped outside that a whole part of the castle is not accessible to visitors, which may be why there were only 3 bedrooms open on the second floor. Maybe there are more. Oddly, the brochure says it's unknown where the kitchen, servants' quarters and other bedrooms were in the house, so I guess they don't have any documents to tell them and the rooms were no longer delineated when the house came into the county's possession. (I'm always curious about the lives of the servants at these places, though this is no Downton Abbey.) Some of the rooms had quite a bit of wear and tear, indicating that a restoration would be in order, but I bet they don't have enough funding. Really nice visit. My only negative is that it was really hot in there, particularly on the third floor. I thought maybe it was me, but the people near me were saying the same thing. But it's an old house, and you really can't complain. read more