Riders of the Metro-North in the Hudson Valley are likely familiar with the surreal sight of Bannerman Castle. Chase Sapphire® provided cardmembers and Atlas Obscura readers with the rare opportunity to visit Pollepel Island, where they scouted Bannerman Castle’s grounds and learned about the mysterious place’s past. The ruins perched on the picturesque river are a romantic and remote hidden gem, enticing to even the most well-traveled individuals.

Frances Bannerman built Bannerman Castle almost entirely by himself, without the help of engineers or architects. A self-made ammunitions dealer, he began selling scrap metal as a child and by the age of 14, had already founded his own military surplus company.

Once his accumulates of wares grew too large (he eventually graduated to selling full-size Navy ships), Bannerman was forced to move beyond city limits. He chose Bannerman Castle’s current site on Pollepel Island: a small slice of land his son had discovered while canoeing.

Though it may appear ancient, the Castle has only been abandoned since 1957. Guests on the tour learned about the place’s recent history, along with many other fascinating facts that enriched the overall experience.

A view of Bannerman Castle from the water.
A view of Bannerman Castle from the water. James Sprankle
Guests approaching Bannerman Castle by boat.
Guests approaching Bannerman Castle by boat. James Sprankle
Canada Geese greet guests at Pollepel Island.
Canada Geese greet guests at Pollepel Island.
Engravings found on the grounds.
Engravings found on the grounds. James Sprankle
Bannerman Castle, shot from the ground. All photos by James Sprankle.
Bannerman Castle, shot from the ground. All photos by James Sprankle. James Sprankle
Details of the castle's majestic architecture.
Details of the castle’s majestic architecture. James Sprankle
A guest photographs the stunning environs.
A guest photographs the stunning environs. James Sprankle
Guests gather among the green environs.
Guests gather among the green environs. James Sprankle
Views of the surrounding hills from Pollepel Island.
Views of the surrounding hills from Pollepel Island. James Sprankle
Returning to the Beacon Harbor at dusk.
Returning to the Beacon Harbor at dusk. James Sprankle