castles to visit uk

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 13 best castles in the UK

Enjoy a royally good day out and transport yourself back in time at one of the best castles in the UK

In the UK , we take our castles a bit for granted. They’re like our curio-packed museums and idyllic seaside towns , like our lush rolling hills and countless characterful pubs – our castles are sort of just there . But they’re also amongst the most majestic and fascinating historic structures in the entire world – when you stop to think about them, they really are quite something. 

Dotted with dramatic drawbridges, towering turrets and winding dungeons, Britain’s castles are packed with centuries of unique stories. Whether you’re looking for winding political histories or spectacular architecture, they come in all shapes, sizes, and locations, from slap-bang in the city centre to perched on stormy clifftops. So, head this way. Here are the 13 best castles in the UK.

RECOMMENDED: 🌈The most colourful places in the UK 🌤️The best places to visit in the UK   🏔️The most scenic hikes in the UK 🏖️The most  beautiful hidden beaches in the UK

An email you’ll actually love

Best castles in the UK

1.  Warwick Castle, England

Warwick Castle makes for a proper day out. As well as all the towers, rooms and gardens to explore, there are plenty of attractions for small kids and big kids alike, all with the noble aim of making history fun. Spend the day exploring the ‘Horrible Histories’ maze, the castle dungeon and the Princess Tower, while in the grounds, there’s a bird of prey display  and a knight school. Never want to leave? You can stay the night in style with suitably decked-out glamping tents, lodges or suites in the castle itself.

From £22. Warwick Castle , Warwick, CV34 4QU.

2.  Cardiff Castle, Wales

Set in the middle of the city and surrounded by Bute Park, Cardiff Castle looks like a normal stronghold from the outside, but set foot inside and things start to get really jazzy. During its long history, the castle has been decked out with all the trappings you’d expect of a lavish palace: stained-glass windows, murals, marble and wood carvings. The opulent interiors have been described as a ‘Victorian medieval dream world’, and it’s well worth taking a tour to marvel at the banqueting hall, library and the ceiling of the famous Arab room.

From £15.50.  Cardiff Castle , Cardiff, CF10 3RB.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Cardiff

3.  The Tower of London, England

Despite its deceptive name, the Tower of London is most definitely a castle. Not only that, it’s the most secure castle in the land. No surprise that the Crown Jewels are stashed here. Visit for a glimpse of said sparklers, and pick up lots of great historical facts while you’re at it. Like, did you know that the Tower used to make all the coins in the realm, or that it has been a fortress, a palace and a prison? Or that if the six resident ravens ever leave the castle, the kingdom will fall into ruin? That’s your next dinner party convo sorted. 

From £34.80. The Tower of London , London, EC3N 4AB.

📍 Discover the best things to do in London

4.  Alnwick Castle, England

Dating back to the Norman era, Alnwick Castle in Northumberland has been lots of things, from a family home to a refuge for evacuees. Most famously, though, it’s been a film set. With activities such as broomstick training and dragon quests, you can probably guess which franchise the castle is associated with. Grab your Nimbus 2000 and head to the exact location a certain boy wizard had his first quidditch lesson. If all that sounds like nonsense to you, there are plenty of muggle activities too, like jousting, fine dining and outdoor cinema screenings.

From £20.50.  Alnwick Castle , Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NG.

5.  Caernarfon Castle, Wales

Wales has a curious relationship with its many castles. Some are proud to hold them up as beautiful examples of medieval architecture that represent a major pull for tourists, while others see the so-called Iron Ring as a painful reminder of King Edward I’s conquest of Wales in the twelfth century. Of all the castles, Caernarfon’s is possibly the most arresting, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was said to be designed on the famous walls of Constantinople (today’s Istanbul). Caernarfon is a charming town with plenty of attractions but few come close to matching the might of its eponymous castle.

From £13. Caernarfon Castle . Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, LL55 2AY

6.  Dunnottar Castle, Scotland

Nothing says drama quite like a ruined fortress perched on a precipice above the sea, and that’s exactly what you get with a visit to Dunnottar Castle in Scotland . The castle was saved from being completely lost by restoration work in 1925. It’s still kind of a ruin, but in a good, haunting way that suits its location. History buffs will love its ties to famous historical figures (shout out to Mary Queen of Scots, who visited for the first time in 1562), and photographers will love the striking figure it cuts against the sea – rain or shine, it’s practically impossible to take a bad photo of it.

From £11.50.  Dunnottar Castle , Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, AB39 2TL. 

7.  Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Popped on a peak like the proverbial cherry, this striking urban castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline, making itself the Scottish capital’s most iconic landmark. Once you’re done admiring it from afar, march your way up the Royal Mile to the front gates, then there’s plenty to do and see inside the castle itself. Plan your visit around lunch to hear the firing of the one o’clock gun, and leave time to check out the enigmatically named Stone of Destiny. It’s displayed next to the Scottish Crown Jewels, which gives you some idea of its value, but, to preserve the air of mystery, we won’t tell you what it’s for.

From £19.50. Edinburgh Castle , Edinburgh, EH1 2NG.

📍   Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh

8.  Castle Ward, Northern Ireland

Game of Thrones   is over, but that doesn’t mean our fascination with its filming locations is going anywhere. If you’re up for a little set-jetting, Northern Ireland has plenty of  Thrones gems, including Castle Ward, aka Winterfell, where the baby Starks began their adventures way back in season one.  Not a GOT fan? Explore the eighteenth-century mansion, woodlands, gardens, the tea room and secondhand bookshop, with not a dragon in sight.

From £13. Castle Ward , Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 7BA.

9.  Tintagel Castle, England

Said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, the romantic castle of Tintagel has long been connected to myths and legends. It appears  to have been constructed for its legendary location alone, as its site on the north Cornwall coast offers no obvious military value. Part of the castle is built on the mainland and the other on an island with a footbridge linking the two. Visit for the Arthurian legends and mysterious spots like Merlin’s Cave if that’s your thing. If not, the rocky beachside location is a stunning destination in itself.

From £14.50.  Tintagel Castle , Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Cornwall

10.  Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland

Touring along the Causeway Coast? Dunluce Castle is well worth a stop. This striking cliffside ruin perches on the edge of the Antrim coast. And there are some pretty dramatic stories to go with its location. Forget actual history, like Scottish sieges, we’re here for the mythical tales of hauntings, banshees and how the entire castle kitchen crashed into the sea one stormy night. Ooh, we’ve got goosebumps.

From £6. Dunluce Castle , Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8UY.

11.  Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

For a castle that looks like it’s been lifted straight from a fairy tale, head for this turreted wonder in the Scottish Highlands . With the vibe of a fancy French chateau, you’ll find pointy spires and vast windows galore overlooking the walled, formal gardens below and Moray Firth beyond. The castle dates back to the 1300s and has been continuously inhabited since then by a long line of earls and dukes. Unfortunately, you can’t stay overnight, but you can take a tour of the interior and the gardens. There’s a tearoom and a falconry, too.

Open March 29-Oct 31. From £14.50.  Dunrobin Castle , Golspie, Sutherland, KW10 6SF.

12.  Beaumaris Castle, Wales

Viewed from above, Beaumaris Castle on Anglesey is a symmetrical work of art. With its concentric ‘walls within walls’ design, it’s one of the most perfect castles in Britain… However, when it was being built, Edward I ran out of money (hey, we’ve all been there), and so the walls never reached their intended full height. The result? An unfinished but perfectly formed, tranquil-looking fortress set against a scenic, seaside backdrop. And as if it couldn’t get any more photogenic, there’s a moat. Serious castle credentials.

From £6. Beaumaris Castle , Beaumaris LL58 8AP

13.  Windsor Castle, England

The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor is likely best known as the fave castle of the late  Queen Elizabeth II. Y ou can take a tour of the plush red-and-gold state apartments (walk the historic or ceremonial route depending on your mood), explore the castle’s treasures and visit the chapel where (most of) your favourite royal weddings have taken place.

From £30.  Windsor Castle , Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ.

📍  Discover the best things to do in Windsor

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

10 Best Castles to Visit in England

England's 10 best castles include magical settings for legendary stories and early Medieval ruins connected to powerful families. There are castles with romantic stories and others that are the Victorian fantasies of wealthy aristocrats. These are among the best.

Leeds Castle, the Most Romantic Castle in England

Leeds Castle, near Maidstone in Kent, is often called the most romantic castle in England because of its beautiful setting, surrounded by a moat. There is another good reason to think of romance here. For most of its 1,000-year history, it has been a lady's castle. The first woman to own it, Eleanor of Castile, the wife of King Edward I, bought it for herself from the Norman noble who went broke building it. Eventually, it was the dower house of six queens, and Henry VIII added luxury touches to make it ready for his newest wife, Anne Boleyn. Sadly, she lost her head before she had much time to enjoy it.

Today the castle combines original medieval rooms and features with 20th-century areas created for the last private resident, an Anglo-American heiress who entertained celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and the young Winston Churchill. Among the highlights are the Gloriette, the oldest part of the castle, and the many family-oriented events that take place throughout the year. There's a hedge maze that ends in a magical hidden grotto and extensive gardens to explore.

Arundel Castle, a Fairytale Castle and a Nest of Conspirators

Arundel Castle was begun within a year of the Norman Conquest in 1067. Some parts of that early castle—the keep, the gatehouse, and the barbican (defensive tower above the gate)—remain. Still, most of what you see is a Victorian fantasy of what a castle should look like, added during renovations in the 1880s and 1890s.

It is still a fabulous place to visit in its position high above the West Sussex town of Arundel and the river Arun, about two hours by car or train south of London.

It's the family seat of the Dukes of Norfolk, who is still in residence. Learning about this once politically powerful family and the ups and downs of their fortunes is the highlight of any visit. The family included several cardinals, a saint, a hero of the Spanish Armada, and the uncle of both Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. He conspired to marry both of them to Henry VIII, and both lost their heads as a result. So, by the way, did many Dukes of Norfolk.

The house is crammed with Tudor-era furniture, tapestries, and clocks as well as portraits by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, and others. While there, you can also see some of the personal possessions of Mary, Queen of Scots—the fourth Duke plotted to marry her and was beheaded for it.

Dover Castle, Guarding England Since William the Conqueror

Dover Castle commands the shortest crossing of the English Channel to France, the reason William the Conqueror himself chose it. He directed the building of a stockade there almost immediately after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. He wasn't the first to recognize this hill's importance. The Romans and the Anglo Saxons also fortified the spot, and you can see evidence of them when you visit. The castle remained a garrisoned fortress from these early days right up to the late 1950s.

Among the highlights of a visit, see the Great Tower, where six rooms of the Medieval castle of Henry II, William's grandson, have been recreated. Then tour the World War I Fire Command Post and take a guided tour of the World War II tunnels that housed a hospital and Operation Dynamo, the planning HQ for the evacuation of thousands of British soldiers from Dunkirk. Some of the costumes from the 2017 film, "Dunkirk," are on exhibit there.

Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn's Childhood Home

Anne Boleyn's childhood home is a mere 30 miles southeast of London, near Edenbridge in Kent. It's surrounded by 125 acres of gardens and includes 28 rooms where you can stay.

The Tudor house, built by the Boleyn family, sits within the 13th century, medieval castle, filled with Tudor rooms—including a bedroom reputed to be Anne's. The castle was restored by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor who created a family home in part of the castle while indulging his interest in history by renovating the house. The heavily carved paneling and furniture in the Tudor rooms are worth a visit alone.

Hever Castle is an active family attraction with events happening in the gardens and grounds throughout the summer. Don't miss the jousting and heavy horse events that take place regularly within an authentic Medieval jousting arena, complete with a royal box.

Alnwick Castle, Learn to Fly from Harry Potter's Professor

Alnwick Castle (pronounced Annick), the family seat of the Dukes of Northumberland, is the second-largest inhabited castle in England (Windsor is the largest). It's on England's northeast coast, about halfway between Newcastle upon Tyne and the Scottish border.

For more than 700 years, the castle has been home to the Percys, once an influential political family in the late Middle Ages. Today this castle is probably more famous as the location of Hogwarts in "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" and "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets."

Today you can learn broomstick flying and the rules of Quiddich in Outer Bailey, where Harry and friends learned to fly. Free 25-minute broomstick training sessions are available to castle ticket holders throughout the day. And the "Professors" share the secret of taking airborne photos with "graduates."

In the Artisan's Courtyard, the family can dress up in Medieval costumes and join in with the villagers in trying traditional crafts and games. You can also go on a quest to conquer a dragon.

The castle has impressive staterooms, and about a mile down the road, the Duchess of Northumberland has created new gardens that include a gated and locked poison garden that can only be visited by guided tour.

Bolsover Castle, a Party House of the Stuart Era

Sir William Cavendish built Bolsover Castle, within the ruins of a Norman castle, in the 17th century during the reign of the Stuart king, Charles II. He was a playboy, poet, and adventurer who designed his house to resemble a Medieval castle. But it was a place for him to entertain and impress his friends. During the English Civil War, Cavendish, who was a Royalist or Cavalier fought on the losing side and fled into exile in 1644. When he returned, about 16 years later, his house was severely damaged. He set about restoring some of it into what is now the Little Castle.

A highlight of a visit is the chance to see the Cavalier Horses perform in the indoor Riding School at Bolsover Castle. The horses perform to Baroque music with riders in Cavalier costumes, every weekend from early April to early October.

This Derbyshire house is about 25 miles north of Nottingham and about 12 miles east of the Peak District National Park.

Bodiam Castle, Ruined Splendor Behind a 14th Century Moat

 Duncan George/Getty Images

Visit Bodiam Castle in East Sussex to walk the long bridge across its magnificent moat and to enter a ruined 14th century castle left much as it was the last time it saw battle. You might find that Bodiam Castle resembles the castle you may have built with a pail and shovel on the beaches of your childhood. You can climb ancient spiral staircases and see a very rare and original portcullis in the gatehouse. Picnic on the grounds or join a free archery session.

Bodiam is about 11 miles from the south coast at Hastings and only around 7 miles from Battle, the site of the Battle of Hastings, and well worth a visit.

Kenilworth, a Castle to Woo a Queen

Kenilworth started as a Norman country house. It was fortified into a castle by Henry II, William the Conqueror's grandson, who needed a stronghold to protect his throne from his many warring brothers. It was finally reduced to ruins by Oliver Cromwell's men after the English Civil War in the 17th century. But before that Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, extensively renovated the castle to please a special visitor, Queen Elizabeth I.

The story of Elizabeth and Dudley is one of the great unresolved romances of history. The childhood friends were reacquainted when both were imprisoned in the Tower by Elizabeth's sister, Queen Mary. Dudley became her favorite, and there was even talk of marriage. Then scandal over the mysterious death of his wife Amy made marriage impossible. Instead, he virtual rebuilt Kenilworth to please Elizabeth, who visited often.

Since 2014, new enclosed staircases let visitors enjoy views last seen by Elizabeth more than 400 years ago, while 21st-century gardeners recreated the privy garden created for her. And in the Leicester Gatehouse, see an Elizabethan bedroom and an exhibition about the romantic story.

Kenilworth is in Warwickshire, 105 miles from London but only 15 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, making it an excellent add-on to a short break in Shakespeare's England.

Tintagel, Echoes of King Arthur

Legend has it that King Arthur was conceived here. What is much more likely is that Richard, Earl of Cornwall, and brother of King Henry III picked this strategic headland to build his castle in the 13th century and connected it to the popular Morte d'Arthur, a "bestseller" of the early middle ages. To strengthen his claim and attachment to Cornwall, Richard clothed himself in the popular legends. Tintagel's astonishing position, perched on rocks above a beach and Merlin's cave, makes it easy to imagine legendary romances happened here.

You need a head for heights for the long steep staircases and the narrow bridge that connects the castle to the mainland. It's worth the effort. Tintagel Head is on the north coast of Cornwall between Boscastle and Port Isaac.

Warkworth Castle, the Seat of Medieval Power

Warkworth Castle, near the Northumberland coast and the Scottish border, was built by the colorful Percy family who arrived in Britain with William the Conqueror and became power players and intriguers through the Middle Ages. As the Dukes of Northumberland, they also built nearby Alnwick Castle, which is still the family seat.

The castle's position, a ruin at the top of its small English village, is dramatic. Today's visitors can explore the unusual cruciform castle keep, designed in the shape of a Greek cross. Its rooms and floors can be explored as can the Duke's chambers, two rooms roofed and floored in the 19th century for the private use of the Duke and his family. The gatehouse is the oldest part of the castle, and beyond it, the Bailey is a flat, grassy area great as a picnic and children's play area.

Warkworth Castle: The Complete Guide

Kenilworth Castle: The Complete Guide

Anne Boleyn's Hever Castle: The Complete Guide

Dover Castle: The Complete Guide

Stay Cheaper By Staying Close to - Not in - London

15 Terrific Day Trips From London

The Castles of William the Conqueror

Tintagel Castle: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

4-Day UK Travel Itinerary: West of London Travel Plan

5 of the Prettiest Tiny Villages to Visit in England

10 Great Reasons to Visit the United Kingdom

St. George's Chapel at Windsor: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Castles in Wales

Every UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK

North Coast of France: The Ultimate Road Trip From Dieppe to Calais

The Best 20 Castles To Visit In England

The Finest English Castles (Updated October 2023):

English castles are some of the most popular tourist destinations in England.

These castles , like their counterparts in Wales , are great monuments to England’s long history . Visitors flock there in droves, no doubt filled with stories of the knights and kings who lived there, and the events they have witnessed.

However, there are over 1,500 castles in the UK (according to the Castellarium Anglicanum , the definitive list published in 1983) and so we thought we’d help out by choosing the best to visit.

So then here is our choice of the best twenty castles in England.

(NB We’ve just published a post some of the many haunted English Castles. Check it out here >>> Haunted Castles In England .

For centuries, these grand structures have graced Great Britain with their imposing stone features and large aristocratic and royal estates.

Let’s look at them in more detail, and list the best castles in England (twenty of them)…

Table of Contents

The Best Castles In England: 20 English Castles To Visit Next Time You’re In In The UK

Many of the oldest castles in England date back to the Norman invasion in 1066.

In the centuries following the Norman invasion, castles in England continued to grow in sophistication and comfort.

By the 14th century, English castles not only provided superior defensive features, but also boasted sophisticated, luxurious living arrangements, and beautifully landscaped formal gardens and parks.

Throughout the Renaissance Era, a small number of castles were built for the wealthy to enjoy extravagant feasts and grand celebrations. During the 17th century, widespread religious and civil conflicts meant that castles, and the defence that they offered England, played an important role in protecting the nation’s interest.

Today, the great castles of England pay homage to the past. The noble structures stand erect as a living memorial to the centuries that have passed, the battles that have been fought, and the people that have come before. Take a look at some of the most monumental English castles and learn about the rich history of these awe-inspiring structures.

No 1: Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle is one of the most iconic castles in England . It also has the distinction of being among the oldest; it was originally fortified by William the Conqueror following the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Before it was turned into a fortified castle it was a general stronghold for the Saxon forces. It also served as a lighthouse for the Romans during their conquest of England.

The History of Dover Castle

It was vital that Dover be fortified because it offered the shortest distance between England and mainland Europe. In times of war, it would be the first place anyone attacked, and in times of peace, it would serve as a vital trading and sailing hub.

Dover Castle itself has had a long and eventful history to say the least. Dubbed the “Key to England” the fortress has been the first line of defense for England for over 900 years. The only castles that have had a life as long as this are the Tower of London and Windsor Castle.

The Birth of a Castle

As soon as William the Conqueror won the Battle of Hastings in 1066 he ordered that the defences at the castle be fortified with earthwork and stockade with timber. The castle was garrisoned as soon as it was ready and was garrisoned without interruption (meaning there was always some military force there) until 1958.

King Henry II remodelled the castle in the late 12 th -century. He planned on making the great tower of Dover Castle a palace in which he could entertain important guests. He also planned on making the tower the last redoubt for the castle; one of the most strategically important in the country. The tower stands 83 feet tall, 100 feet square, and the walls are 21 feet thick. It houses three floors, with the top-most floor being reserved for the king.

With such an impressive and imposing showpiece the king was able to welcome distinguished visitors – in particular noble pilgrims on a pilgrimage to the Canterbury Cathedral of Thomas Becket. Thomas Becket was an archbishop who was slaughtered before the altar at the castle by Henry’s knights on December 29 th , 1170; ten years before the work on the tower began. There was a chapel dedicated to the late archbishop on the second floor, made with beautiful decorated stonework.

Construction on the tower continued into the first half of the 13 th century under the watch of King John and Henry III. It was finally finished by Henry III.

A Castle Besieged

The defences of the castle were put through their paces in 1216-1217 when the castle was besieged. It was attacked by Prince Louis of France, who supported English barons in their rebellion against King John. The defences at the castle withstood ten months of bombardment by the French siege engines and every other attempt the French made to invade the castle.

The castle was further improved after the siege. Henry III added three new gatehouses and a fortified spur extension to the castle. The castle as we know it today was completed by the 1250s and it has remained a symbol of the power of the English royal family ever since.

The castle was once again besieged in October 1265. This time, the castle was besieged by Henry III’s own son; Prince Edward. The castle was held by the king’s sister, Eleanor de Montfort. Eleanor was the widow of the baron Simon de Montfort, who rebelled against the king and had been killed at the Battle of Evesham. Besieged from within and without by royalists, Eleanor petitioned for peace and was exiled to France.

A Castle Transformed

Dover Castle remained garrisoned even after the Middle Ages and would stay garrisoned until the late 20 th century. While it became less important after the 16 th century, the castle still played host to royals including Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Charles I, and their guests. It was less important from a military point of view but the fact it played host to so many important people necessitated continued protection.

The castle was reshaped in the 1740s to better defend against artillery warfare. When England was under threat of invasion by Napoleon and the French forces in the 18 th century, the castle was added to even more. A series of tunnels was built into the cliffs of Dover to serve as barracks for the multitudes of soldiers needed to protect the castle.

Dover During the Wars

Technological advances from the turn of the 19 th century allowed for coastal artillery to be commanded from a central Fire Command Post on the cliff edge. The position was deemed important enough by the Admiralty for them to commission a signal station on top of it in 1914. The Navy were able to use the station to command the flow of ships in and out of Dover harbour.

The tunnels built during the Napoleonic war were used again during the Second World War. From 1939 onwards they were the location of the command centre that controlled all naval operations in the English Channel. This is where Vice Admiral Bertram Ramsay orchestrated the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk with Operation Dynamo.

The tunnels were expanded upon to serve as a bigger headquarters and as a hospital for the war wounded. The hospital was combined with the headquarters and the castle was an important part of defending the Straits of Dover and preparing for the invasion of mainland Europe in 1944.

The network of tunnels underwent a further transformation during the Cold War. It was planned that the tunnels would serve as a secret location for one of Britain’s Regional Seats of Government so that things could resume as close to normal if England was hit by a nuclear attack.

Modern Dover Castle

The modern Dover Castle is managed by the English Heritage group. It is open to the public and offers visitors a stunning look at the history and experience of the fortress. Visitors can tour the castle and the underground tunnels.

They can enjoy all the exhibitions that put them in the shoes of the former inhabitants of the castle and learn all about the rich history for themselves.

The castle has been preserved really well and has been mostly-restored to the original state. Some of the castle has been modified to reflect how it may have looked at different points in history to offer an authentic experience.

Ancient history fans can also experience the original Roman lighthouse that laid the foundations for the castle.

Here’s our post on Dover Castle: Dover Castle: Its History From William The Conqueror To The Modern Day

No 2: Tintagel, Cornwall

This 800-year-old castle is best known for its connection to the legendary King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.

Originally built by the Earl of Cornwall, brother to the then King of England. The Earl built the castle to resemble King Arthur’s infamous court at Camelot. Today, the castle is the site of many Arthurian re-enactments and mock battles.

Every summer, the castle becomes the home of thousands of Arthurian enthusiasts who come to experience the days of King Arthur and his knights.

No 3: Carisbrooke Castle, Isle of Wight

At the heart of the Isle of Wight is the romantic castle of Carisbrooke . The glorious castle has been many things over its long history.

Once an armed fortress, the castle has also been a king’s prison and a royal summer retreat.

Today, visitors to the majestic castle find an entertaining museum, a lovely Edwardian garden, and many wonderful events.

Here’s our post on Carisbrooke Castle: Carisbrooke Castle | Magnificent Fortress On The Isle Of Wight, England

No 4: Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire

Originally built in the 12th century, Bolsover Castle was given a makeover by Sir George Talbot in 1553 after years of neglect. The earl later became known for his marriage to ‘Bess of Hardwick’, who was probably the most astute business in the 16th century.

Today, the castle intended for luxurious living has been restored. The castle’s battlements, venus garden, and fountain have been given a second life.

Visitors are able to tour the grounds, visit the castle’s Discovery Centre (located in the castle’s riding stables), partake in one of the many events held throughout the year, or just enjoy a picnic at the lovely site.

NB We have a separate post on Bolsover castle here: >>> https://englandexplore.com/bolsover-castle/

No 5: Leeds Castle, Kent

Claiming to be the “loveliest castle in the world”, Leeds Castle in Kent (and, confusingly, nowhere near the city of Leeds in Yorkshire) is one of the most famous castles in England.

Appearing in the Domesday Book, Leeds Castle has been a stronghold for the Norman armies, a royal residence, and a royal palace occupied by kings and queens .

The location of the castle is nothing short of stunning, with it being situated on two islands in a beautiful lake. Here’s our guide:

History of Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle began life as a Royal Manor. Built in 857 AD, the manor was owned and lived in by a Saxon royal family. After the Normans invaded and conquered England they began construction on the original stone castle at the site of the manor.

The Castle became the royal palace of Edward I and Queen Eleanor in 1278. Edward made several improvements to the castle during his reign.

One notable thing from this time is the Barbican, which stands out because it is made up of three different parts. Each part of the Barbican has its own entrance, gateway, drawbridge, and portcullis. The Medieval Keep, which houses the Great Hall, is named the Gloriette in honour of Queen Eleanor.

King Edward II awarded the castle to his Royal Steward in 1321. When his wife Queen Isabella sought shelter at the castle she was turned away by the people. She was actually fired upon by the archers stationed at the castle.

Needless to say, Edward was not happy about the situation. He laid siege to the castle and reclaimed it for himself and Isabella. Edward was murdered six years later, but Queen Isabela kept the castle until her own death in 1358.

Leeds Castle has housed six medieval queens in all during its history. It housed Queens Eleanor, Isabella, Philippa of Hainhault (and wife of Edward III), Joan of Navarre, Catherine de Valois, and Catherine of Aragon.

It also technically housed Elizabeth I. She was imprisoned in the castle for a time before her coronation and ascension to the throne. It’s thanks to this history of housing queens that the castle is also called the “Castle of Queens, Queen of Castles”.

Of all the kings and queens to have lived in the castle, perhaps none are more famous than Henry VIII.

Henry VIII transformed the castle for Catherine of Aragon, his first wife. While touring the castle be sure to keep a lookout for the Field of the Cloth of Gold; a painting that commemorates when King Henry VIII met King Francis I of France in 1520.

The castle was later purchased and owned by the Culpeper family. This meant that the castle was not destroyed during the English Civil War because the Culpeper family sided with the Parliamentarians. It would later be used to house Dutch and French prisoners of war.

The last person to privately own the castle as a residence was Lady Baillie. She purchased the castle in 1926 and employed the services of French interior designers so that they might improve her new home and make it even better.

She dedicated much of her life to the restoration and improvement of the castle. It was her that set up the Leeds Castle Foundation too, to conserve the castle for years to come. Leeds Castle would be opened up to the public in 1976.

Visitors to the castle are welcome to enjoy the stunning architecture and landscaping of the grounds, which is set into a 500 acre landscape of parkland complete with a maze, grotto, vineyard, and aviary.

The maze is one of the most popular tourist attractions at the site, with a secret grotto tucked away at the centre for anyone who can safely navigate their way through.

Staying at Leeds Castle

If you want to get the most out of your stay to the castle then you should consider staying for a night or two. This gives you a lot more time to enjoy the castle grounds and also allows access to the gardens when the castle isn’t open to the general public. Stay in the State Courtyard Bedroom and enjoy a full English breakfast served at the 17 th century Fairfax Hall Restaurant.

Don’t feel like being treated like royalty? Want to try something different? The castle lets you experience the life of a knight with Knight’s Glamping. Stay under the stars in a luxurious four-poster bed with cotton bedding and wake up ready to do battle on the morrow.

If you’re looking to stay at the castle for an extended period of time then try out one of the holiday cottages. These cottages house between 2 and 10 people. There are five of them all across the property and they are all self-catering. Be sure to book yours ahead of time. Staying in the cottages means you are able to explore the grounds freely long after other guests leave.

One of the best things about visiting Leeds Castle is that tickets are valid for up to a year. You’re welcome to visit the grounds as many times as you want in that time. Think of it like every ticket is a season ticket.

During your stay be sure to have a hot air balloon flight, a ferry boat ride, a round of golf, and many of the other exciting activities that are fun for the whole family.

How to Get to Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is around 4 miles east of Maidstone.

It’s off Junction 8 of the M20 motorway and around an hour and a half from London – or half an hour from the Channel Ports and Channel Tunnel.

No 6: Windsor Castle

20 miles west of London, The 900-year-old Windsor Castle is the oldest official royal estate, and the largest currently occupied castle in the world.

However, this residence is much more than just a castle. The grounds at Windsor contain a large church, several homes, and the royal palace.

(We now have a separate post on Windsor Castle: Windsor Castle | The Queen’s Favourite Home

No 7: Hever Castle, Kent

The 700-year-old Hever Castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn is home to a fine collection of beautiful furniture, antiques, tapestries, and an impressive collection of Tudor paintings.

Additionally, the castle is home to more than 125 acres of glorious gardens and award-winning landscape. One thing is for sure, at any time of the year, the stunning castle’s exteriors and interiors are sure to take your breath away.

No 8: Bolton Castle, Yorkshire

Bolton Castle in Yorkshire was once a defensive fortress as well as a luxurious family estate. Today, the castle is a well-preserved home to many outstanding rooms and features and is one of the best castles in England to visit.

Visitors of the castle can peruse rooms like the old kitchens, the nursery, the great chamber, Mary Queen of Scots’ bedroom, the armoury, and even the dungeon.

No 9: Richmond Castle, Yorkshire

Stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales elevate the Richmond Castle into its rightful place as one of the most beloved attractions in North Yorkshire.

Originally built to keep the peace in the unruly northern region, today, the castle is one of the most inspiring Norman fortresses in Great Britain.

No 10: Skipton Castle, Yorkshire

If you’re travelling to the Yorkshire Dales , why not stop on the way to see this lovely medieval castle…

One of the most well-preserved and complete medieval castles in England, the 900-year-old Skipton Castle is a place where one can easily encounter remnants of the nation’s rich history around every corner.

From the dungeon to the watchtower, Skipton Castle was made to last. In fact, the fortification withstood a three-year log siege during the nation’s Civil War. As it stands now, the castle will be around for many years to come.

No 11: Corfe Castle, Dorset

The once majestic Corfe Castle now stands in ruins guarding the Purbeck marble quarry.

At one time, nothing could pass forth from the rocky outcrop without first going past Corfe.

The centuries-old hillside castle is the centre of many stories of the kings and queens who passed between its walls.

One of the most dramatic tales reports that the castle is where King Edward was murdered by his stepmother in 979.

No 12: St Michaels Mount

The majestic St. Micheal’s Mount is connected to the mainland by a rocky causeway. As the sea waters pour in and the tide rises, the mount becomes cut off from the nearby village of Marazion.

Pilgrims have poured to the island’s jagged shores since the 5th century when Micheal the archangel appeared before a group of people at the mount. The holy site was honoured, and a Benedictine monastery was built over the plat in the 12th century.

Still today, true believers travel to the mount and follow in the footsteps of the ancient Pilgrims to the medieval monastery located at the top of the hill.

No 13: Norwich Castle

The 900-year-old Norwich Castle is one of Norwich’s most beloved landmarks. Originally built by the Normans as a royal palace, the castle was later used as a prison.

Today, the castle is home to exquisite collections of fine art, antiques, and the collections of the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum collections.

No 14: Ludlow Castle, Shropshire

First a Norman fortress, Ludlow Castle was improved upon for centuries and eventually became a royal palace. Originally, the fortification served to hold back the Welsh.

Today, the castle is open for all to enjoy.

No 15: Barnard Castle, County Durham

Sitting high on a rock above the River Tees, Barnard Castle is named for its founder, Bernard de Balliol.

First built in the 12th century, the castle was later the property of Richard III.

Visitors to the estate are able to enjoy the castle’s famed ‘sensory garden,’ which contains a variety of scented plants and tactile-rich objects.

Click here for our post on Barnard Castle

No 16: Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Less than 100 miles from London, the stately Warwick Castle is known for its superb medieval interior and great period re-enactments.

The Castle has been through a lot over the years. A few notable moments include when it was attacked in 1264, the siege of Warwick Castle in 1642, and the fire that tore through the castle in 1871. Despite all of these setbacks, the castle has endured throughout history and still stands today.

It was kept by the Earls of Warwick before becoming the private residence of the Greville Family until 1978, when it became the property of the Tussauds Group, who later became Merlin Entertainment Group, in 2007.

It remains with the Merlin Entertainment Group to this day and they have turned the castle into a fun and interesting tourist destination. Indeed it’s one of the few English castles of its size that welcomes overnight visitors, as we shall see.

In the meantime, let’s have a look at the castle’s long and varied history…

History of Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle was built by a king, became the seat of a kingmaker, and played a vital part in the War of the Roses and the English Civil War. Needless to say, it’s had a long and important history. It even housed a royal prisoner at one point.

The records of there being a walled-building in Warwick date back to the Saxon foundations built by the daughter of Alfred the Great, Ethelfleda.

The foundations were built to protect the area from invading Danes. It was constructed in 914 A.D. It’s incredible to think that the huge castle started life as a small fort built by the Saxons.

The Warwick Castle that we know and love today slowly came to life from 1068. The castle was a construction project for King William I, better known to historians as William the Conqueror.

It didn’t take long after the Battle of Hastings – in 1066 – for William to begin making his own mark on the country. The “castle” at this point was a wooden motte and bailey. The project to turn it into a stone castle wouldn’t be complete until the 13th century.

While the castle served William the Conqueror well it wasn’t until the Hundreds Year War that it became a notable footnote of British history.

It was during this war that it became an example followed by the architects of castles in the 14th and 15th centuries. The castles from that period were based on the best of the best and Warwick Castle was included among that list.

The castle has undergone several changes across the years. Some of those changes were because of changes in styles and tastes, some were for military reasons, and others were because of disaster.

One of the most famous changes to the castle came when following a fire in 1871.

While the two eastern towers of the castle can be traced back to the 14th and 15th centuries and the Great Hall was renovated in the 14th century, much of the interior of the castle – in particular the State Dining room – was remodelled in the 18th century.

Warwick Castle was where Edward IV was imprisoned in 1469. It would be held by the Duke of Gloucester in the 1480s before he would go on to become King Richard III .

It was an important part of the English Civil War in 1642 when it withstood a siege by the Royalist forces.

Who has Owned Warwick Castle?

Something that makes the castle so important and a key part of history is the story of the people – not to mention dynasties – that it has played host to over the years.

It has been owned by some prominent people throughout history, including the Earl of Warwick Richard Neville. Neville was a key figure in the War of the Roses and has been dubbed The Kingmaker by historians because of how important he was to the war.

Several families have been the custodians of Warwick Castle throughout history. It has always been closely connected to the royal family in some way or another.

It played an important role in the advancement and further development of castle design and construction.

It has been host to nobility from around the world and also hosted knight games that became a key part of the history and culture of medieval European history. It has since gone on to become one of the most popular tourist spots in England.

Some of the most famous families that have lived inside the walls as the Earls of Warwick are the Newburgh family (11th – 13th century), De Beauchamp (13th – 16th century), Dudley (16th century), Rich (17th to 18th century), and Greville (18th century to 20th century).

The castle has been taken over by the royal family twice across history. These days it is in the possession of the Tussauds Group, which now goes by the name Merlin Entertainment Group. The group is the second large leisure group in the world behind Disney.

They purchased the castle from the Greville family in 1978. The Greville’s had owned the property for almost four centuries (374 years) at the point of sale.

Visiting Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle was opened to the public and now represents a key tourist attraction in England.

Tourists are able to go through the castle itself, the keeps and stables, as well as the 18-meter high trebuchet; the largest trebuchet in the world. There are daily displays and shows happening all the time.

As tourists explore the castle they will learn about the history and architecture of the castle. There’s also plenty of activities for children and adults happening with events scheduled all year round.

Take a look at the schedule to see what’s happening and prepare yourself for a lengthy stay as it can take up to 5 hours to see it all.

Staying at Warwick Castle

Visitors can even stay at the castle overnight if they want.

Families are sure to love the Knight’s Village which has themed accommodation including medieval-themed lodges and glamping tents.

To travel back in time book a stay in the Tower Suites. As the name implies, these suites are located in the 14th-century Caesar’s Tower. Enjoy a beautiful bed and breakfast stay in a 4-poster bed, private castle tours, 24-hour concierge services, complimentary champagne, and two-day tickets to the dungeons.

So, then, Warwick Castle is one of the finest and historic castles in England. And, even better, you can stay there…

No 17: Lincoln Castle, Lincolnshire

William the Conqueror first constructed the fortress on the site of an existing Roman fortification. Since that time, Lincoln Castle has remained a symbol of power throughout the ages.

Today, the castle is on display and is the home site of an original 1215 Magna Carta.

No 18: Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

The stately home of the Duke of Northumberland, Alnwick Castle was first built following the Norman Conquest.

However, the expansive home has been remodelled and renovated many times throughout the years and is today often featured in films, shows, and popular entertainment.

The castle was used as a stand-in for Hogwarts School. Additionally, the castle has also been used as a location for feature films such as Robin hood: Prince of Thieves, The Black Adder, and Becket. Alnwick Castle was also used as the location for part of the filming of Downton Abbey.

No 19: Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

On the cliffs high above the Northumberland coastline, Bamburgh Castle extends nine acres across a rocky plateau and is one of the largest castles in England that is currently inhabited.

Today, the awe-inspiring fortification sits on a throne of volcanic rock known as dolerite more than forty-five metres above sea level.

No 20: Scarborough Castle, Yorkshire

With nearly 3,000 years of history, Scarborough Castle has proudly defended the country’s inlet area and has endured medieval sieges, Civil War, and German naval bombardment.

Today, visitors can climb the embankment and enjoy sweeping views of the dramatic coastline below.

NB We now have a post on British Castles such as Scottish Castles here: https://englandexplore.com/scottish-castles/ and one on Welsh castles: https://englandexplore.com/castles-in-wales

And here are some other of our posts on the above English castles and others:

English Castle Posts:

Castle howard | brideshead revisited’s yorkshire gem.

Set in the rolling countryside of North Yorkshire, magnificent Castle Howard’s roots date back to the 18th century. Here’s our…

Lindisfarne Castle: A Rugged Northumberland Gem

Lindisfarne Castle sits atop Beblowe Craig’s volcanic mound, on Holy Island off the Northumberland Coast. In this guide, we delve…

Oxford Castle | History, Architecture & How To Visit

Oxford Castle, located in the historic city of Oxford, England, is a great example of the rich history of the…

Barnard Castle: Imposing Fortress On The River Tees

Here’s our guide to Barnard Castle, an ancient fortress on the River Tees, in County Durham, in the north of…

Amberley Castle | Now A Luxurious West Sussex Hotel

Ever wanted to stay in a castle? Well, you can by staying in Amberley Castle in West Sussex – on…

5 Castles That Make A Great Day Trip From London

Here are five great great castles that you can visit easily in a day from London. Perfect for a trip…

Discover The Charm Of Belvoir Castle: A Faux Historical Castle In Eastern England

Belvoir Castle is a ‘faux historical’ castle in England’s East Midlands, overlooking several English counties in the picturesque Vale of…

Fotheringhay Castle: Richard III & Mary Queen Of Scots

Fotheringhay Castle may not be much to look at now, but it was the locations of several important historical events,…

Hever Castle | Anne Boleyn’s Childhood Home

Hever Castle is a beautiful medieval castle located in England and has been called one of the most romantic and picturesque buildings in…

Tamworth Castle: A Norman Castle With A Saxon History

A little over 900 years ago, the first Tamworth castle was built overlooking the River Anker where it flows into…

Highclere Castle | Downton Abbey Meets Ancient Egypt

Highclere Castle is home to Crawleys on Downton Abbey & the Earls of Canarvon (one of whom funded finding Tutankhamun’s…

Bolsover Castle | Peak District Fairytale Castle

Hidden away in the Peak District of Derbyshire, Bolsover Castle is a fairytale castle perfect for exploring, or combining a…

Arundel Castle | Ancestral Home of The Dukes Of Norfolk

Arundel Castle, which was built in the 11th century, is the historic home of the Dukes of Norfolk and has…

Durham Castle | Norman Castle Now Part Of Durham University

Durham Castle is a wonderful Norman castle in the centre of the North East England city of Durham, itself a…

The Secrets of Pontefract Castle, England

Pontefract Castle: History, Significance and Visiting Guide Pontefract Castle, located in West Yorkshire, is now a ruin but in its…

Norwich Castle | East Anglian Norman Castle & Museum

If you’re looking for a fascinating day trip from London, Norwich Castle in England is the perfect place to explore.…

Lincoln Castle | Home To The Magna Carta

Lincoln Castle in England is one of the best preserved Norman castles in existence. It was built by William the…

Ludlow Castle – The Shrophire Home Of The Kingmaker

Ludlow Castle is a ruined medieval fortification in the town of Ludlow in the English county of Shropshire. It was…

Totnes Castle: An Architectural Gem In The Heart Of Devon

Totnes Castle is the only castle in Devon (a county in the south west of England) that still has its…

Scarborough Castle | Stronghold Overlooking North Sea

Scarborough Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England. The castle sits high above…

Bodiam Castle |  14th Century Moated Castle

Bodiam Castle, a beautiful and historic castle located in the South East of England, was built in 1385 by Sir…

Raby Castle: A Fine Royal Day Out in England

Raby Castle is one of the most beautiful and historic castles in England. Situated in County Durham, Raby Castle has…

Skipton Castle | Well Preserved Yorkshire Castle

There are some incredible castles across England, each with its own story to tell, and Skipton Castle in Yorkshire is…

Yorkshire Castles | Great Castles In The Northern County Of Yorkshire

Yorkshire Castles: Yorkshire in northern England is a rugged county known for its warm non-nonsense people and gorgeous countryside. It has lots…

Windsor Castle | The Late Queen’s Favourite Home

Windsor Castle spans hundreds of years, starting with the original structure from the 11th century. From royal weddings to christenings,…

Carisbrooke Castle | Magnificent Fortress On The Isle Of Wight, England

There are some incredible castles across the UK, and Carisbrooke Castle is one of them. This is a historic motte-and-bailey…

Corfe Castle | Wild Dorset Ruin

Corfe Castle sits of one of the steepest hills in Dorset, England, overlooking the village of Corfe on the Isle…

Tintagel: King Arthur’s Cornwall Castle?

Tintagel in Cornwall is mainly a ruin now – but many years ago it may have been the home of…

Bamburgh Castle | Magnificent Northumberland fortress

Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland is one of its largest inhabited castles, spanning over nine acres of land on its rocky…

Alnwick Castle | The Real Hogwarts In Northumberland

(NB This post was originally published at https://british-castles.com/alnwick-castle/) Alnwick Castle – or the exterior of Hogwarts to Harry Potter fans…

Maiden Castle

Maiden Castle in Dorset is one of the largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts in Europe – the size…

Dover Castle: Its History From William The Conqueror To The Modern Day

Dover Castle is one of the most iconic castles in England. It also has the distinction of being among the…

Leeds Castle, Kent

Claiming to be the “loveliest castle in the world”, Leeds Castle in Kent (and, confusingly, nowhere near the city of…

Warwick Castle – Its History & Owners. Plus How To Stay There

Warwick Castle has been through a lot over the years. A few notable moments include when it was attacked in…

Remember To Check Out Our Most Popular Posts:

The Cotswolds: The 20 Best Places To Visit

English Villages | What Makes The Perfect Village In England (With Examples)

Visit Yorkshire, England: York, The Dales & More

English Cathedrals: The 20 Best Cathedrals In England

London Travel: The Ultimate Guide. Tips, Attraction Reviews & More

The Kings And Queens of England: From William the Conqueror To Charles III

British Insults, Slang & Phrases: The Ultimate Guide

10 Fun Facts About England: Weird English Traditions

The Yorkshire Dales | The Best Places To Visit

Gorgeous Images Of The English Countryside

Visit Somerset, England: Cider, Bath, Glastonbury & More

20 Gorgeous English Thatched Cottages

Take our London Quiz: How Well Do You Really Know London?

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

• Story ideas

Visit our new website . We'd appreciate your feedback!

Britain’s 20 most spectacular castles

Hundreds of castles dominate the landscape of Britain and are testament to the engineering prowess of previous generations. From vast fortresses overlooking the coast to former strategic strongholds, and others which remain inhabited to this day, these monuments stand as a reminder of the island’s turbulent past. These spectacular castles allow visitors to explore the nation’s beautiful outdoor spaces and lush autumnal scenery, while delving deep into Britain’s history and heritage…

England is home to many striking castles, built over the centuries to protect and to control. From acting as royal residences to being the stars of TV and the silver screen, as the leaves begin to fall and the countryside becomes a burnished carpet of reds, golds and yellows, these immense fortifications are sure to spark the imagination…

Windsor Castle

Just to the west of London lies the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, having been a royal residence for around 950 years. First developed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Windsor Castle is regularly used by the Queen as a weekend retreat, as well as hosting state occasions and royal weddings. The Round Tower dominates the skyline and sits atop the oldest part of the castle, while St George’s Chapel acts as the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter – an order of chivalry dating back to the reign of Edward III in 1348. Advanced booking for the castle is recommended.

Warwick Castle

An imposing fortress in the heart of the Midlands, Warwick Castle provides a taste of medieval British life. Pass beneath the castle’s impressive portcullis, wander along its ramparts, take in archery exhibitions and explore 64 acres of landscaped gardens on the way to discovering 1,100 years of history. Children can venture back through time in the Horrible Histories Maze, or book in to the Castle Dungeon to unravel some of Warwick’s darkest secrets with the help of live actors and spine-tingling special effects.

Tower of London

Once a royal residence and notorious prison, the Tower of London is a World Heritage Site with 1,000 years of history at its core. The imposing fortress is now home to the Crown Jewels, a collection of more than 23,000 dazzling gemstones, while visitors can meet the guardians of the tower – its legendary ravens! Learn more about this feast of Norman architecture from the Yeoman Warders, often known as Beefeaters, who have guarded the tower since Tudor times.

Highclere Castle

One of the stars of TV’s Downton Abbey , Highclere Castle in Hampshire provided the backdrop for four series of the show and the hit movie. Initially a medieval palace, Highclere was transformed in the mid-19th century by Sir Charles Barry, the architectural mind behind the Houses of Parliament in London. Alongside tours of its many rooms, including those used as the state rooms from the Downton Abbey movie, visitors can explore gardens dating back to the 13th century and 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, designed by the renowned landscape gardener, Capability Brown. The castle is home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, whose family have lived there since 1679, and also houses a unique display of Egyptian antiquities celebrating the 5th Earl of Carnarvon’s role in the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun. This year, the castle will also hosts special autumn and winter tours, including Real Lives and Film Sets and Christmas at Highclere.

Hever Castle

With a history spanning more than 700 years, Hever Castle was the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn. Initially a moated defensive castle dating back to 1270, this romantic setting is packed full of Tudor portraits and tapestries, and features fine views out over Hever Lake. Set within the 125 acres of grounds is a 100-year-old Yew Maze, as well as award-winning gardens, with startlingly beautiful dahlia displays and the warming sugary scent of the Katsura tree perfuming the frosty air. Pre-booking to explore Hever Castle and its grounds is essential.

Alnwick Castle 

As the UK’s second-largest inhabited castle behind Windsor, the impressive walls of Alnwick Castle have acted as a military outpost, a teaching college and a family home over the centuries. Another castle with its origins in the Norman period, the fortress in Northumberland will be recognisable to fans of Harry Potter, as the wizarding hero was filmed learning to fly a broomstick within its walls for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone . The castle is no stranger to the world of film, having also featured in Downton Abbey , Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and Elizabeth . Pre-booking is required.

Bamburgh Castle

Perched on an outcrop overlooking the Northumberland Coast, Bamburgh Castle started life as an Anglo-Saxon citadel and has a rich and varied history. The mighty keep dates back to just after the Norman invasion, while it acted as a royal palace for numerous kings in the centuries that followed. Bamburgh holds the distinguished title of being the first castle in the world to fall to gunpowder, having been attacked during the War of the Roses, while a delightful array of artefacts and heirlooms reveal more about its past. Today it stands as the family home of the Armstrong family, descendants of Victorian engineer William Armstrong, who purchased the castle to return it to its former glory. Purchasing pre-booked advance tickets online is recommended.

Leeds Castle

Occupying 500 acres in the heart of the Kent countryside, Leeds Castle celebrated its 900th anniversary in 2019. Visitors can trace its journey from its Norman roots, through royal ownership and its time as a magnificent Tudor place for Henry VIII, to the country retreat that stands today. The Gatehouse Exhibition explores this history, while the castle’s Bird of Prey Centre features displays from hawks, owls and eagles, among other majestic birds. All visits must be reserved online.

Scotland’s castles provide a glimpse into the nation’s past, showcasing struggles for power amid some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery – from jewel-like forest foliage in autumn to misty lochs and frost-kissed glens…

Edinburgh Castle

From its dominating position atop Castle Rock in the heart of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle offers commanding views of the city. Having acted as a military fortress, prison and royal residence in the past, it stands proud as being the most besieged location in Britain. Within its thick grey walls it’s possible to explore tales of treachery and treason, to look out from the Half Moon Battery which overlooks the castle approaches, and to imagine the destructive force of Mons Meg, a 15th century six-tonne siege gun that was capable of blasting a 150kg projectile up to two miles! The Castle is also home to the Royal Palace, the living quarters of many medieval kings and queens throughout the centuries, as well as the National War Museum and the Scottish National War Memorial. Reopening on 1 August, pre-booking is essential.

Craigievar Castle

Having served as the muse for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle, the fairy-tale setting of Craigievar , with its pink façade and carefully crafted stonework, is a sight to behold, and no time more so than in autumn, when its soaring turrets are offset by atmospheric skies and fiery autumn foliage. Surrounded by picturesque countryside and woodlands, this enchanting tower house was completed in around 1626 and little of its exterior has changed since. In fact, there is no artificial light on the upper floors, meaning an incredible collection of artefacts, art works and weaponry can be viewed in the same way as when they were first created. The castle’s grounds are open, with visitors encouraged to look out for the rare pine marten, which inhabits the woodland.

Stirling Castle

Found at the point where the Lowlands and Highlands meet, Stirling Castle dominates the skyline from its position atop a vast volcanic rock. It served as a powerful stronghold during the Wars of Independence, changing hands on several occasions, before becoming an important royal residence. The Royal Palace depicts life for royalty in the 1500s, while The Great Hall, built on the orders of James IV, is the largest banqueting hall in Scotland and is testament to the skills and craftsmanship of those who built it. From learning more about the castle’s past and its role as the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, to admiring its striking Renaissance architecture, visitors can discover why Stirling is one of Scotland’s most impressive castles. Reopening on 1 August, pre-booking is a must.

Eilean Donan Castle

Surrounded by lusciously rugged mountain scenery, Eilean Donan Castle in the Highlands marks the meeting point of three vast sea lochs, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh. What began as a 13th century fortress was rebuilt several times, before being largely destroyed in the Jacobite Risings of the 17th and 18th centuries. However, the site was restored to its former glory some 200 years later, and is now recognisable as one of Scotland’s most iconic locations. Reopening on 5 August, pre-booking is essential.

Urquhart Castle

Sat on the banks of Loch Ness, the ruins of Urquhart Castle provide spectacular views both up and down the loch. With a history spanning around 1,000 years, the castle was once a medieval fortress and it’s easy to imagine what life was like here during the Wars of Independence. The last soldiers left the castle in 1692, blowing it up as they left, but the ruins remain resplendent against the striking backdrop of the freshwater loch and surrounding hills. Reopening on 1 August, pre-booking is essential.

Dunrobin Castle

With its conical spires, walled gardens and stunning outlook over the Moray Firth, Dunrobin Castle can really ignite the imagination. Situated on the eastern coast of the Northern Highlands, the great house has nearly 200 rooms and has been inhabited since the early part of 14th century. Look out for the influences of architects Sir Charles Barry, who was tasked with transforming the castle into a home in 1845, and then Sir Robert Lorimer, who redesigned the interior after it was gutted by fire in the early 20th century.

From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to eccentric gothic revival architecture, Wales is home to around 600 awe-inspiring castles. Ranging in size from small ruins to imposing citadels, these commanding structures played a key role in shaping Britain’s history. Cadw , which overseas castle sites in Wales, is gradually reopening its locations on a phased basis from early August.

Caerphilly Castle

Built in the mid-13th century, Caerphilly Castle covers a massive 30-acre site, making it Britain’s second largest castle, behind the royal residence at Windsor. Initially developed as a means of control, the concentric design with its huge walls and extensive water defences was lovingly restored in the early half of the 20th century by the wealthy fourth Marquess of Bute, although its famed south-east tower continues to lean precariously at more of an angle than the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Castell Coch

With its conical towers poking out of the Fforest Fawr on the hills overlooking Cardiff, Castell Coch appears fresh from a fairy-tale. But while its exterior is impressive, the striking interior design from architect William Burges is what really captures the imagination – making it an enchanting location for some indoor exploration in the autumn and winter months. Supported by the wealth of the third Marquess of Bute during the Victorian period, Burges introduced a gothic revival style and rich furnishings to the remains of the 13th century castle, creating the opulent surroundings found today.

Harlech Castle

One of four coastal fortresses built during the reign of Edward I to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – along with Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Conwy – Harlech Castle sits atop a vast rocky crag in north-west Wales. Dunes now separate the castle from the sea, while the rugged peaks of Snowdonia provide the backdrop, ensuring visitors can easily imagine how its commanding position would have dominated the medieval landscape. Besieged on a number of occasions, including for seven years during the War of the Roses, the castle inspired the tune ‘Men of Harlech’, a rousing song still used in the British military to this day.

Caernarfon Castle

Another of Edward I’s great fortresses, the sheer scale of Caernarfon Castle is what captures the imagination. Having stood overlooking the banks of the River Seiont for 700 years, its polygonal towers were designed to mirror those found in the Roman city of Constantinople, while the huge curtain walls and intimidating gatehouse were built with defence in mind. At the western corner of the castle is its most impressive feature, the ten-sided Eagle Tower with three turrets and walls that are an incredible 5.5 metres thick – a true feat of medieval military engineering.

Conwy Castle

Delve into 700 years of history at Conwy Castle , home to the most intact set of royal apartments from the medieval period. Restored spiral staircases in the castle’s eight towers provide access to the impressive battlements, with stunning views of Snowdonia National Park in the distance, giving visitors the chance to combine historical discovery with outdoor autumnal exploration. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a ring of town walls that stretch just under a mile, while those looking closely at the castle walls can see remnants of lime rendering – a sign that this immense fortress was originally white.

Beaumaris Castle

Found amid the picturesque beauty of Anglesey, Beaumaris Castle was the fourth and final of the main royal strongholds to be built in Wales. But for all its splendour, the fortress of near-perfect symmetry was never actually finished. Its many towers, high walls and D-shaped gatehouses are considered by UNESCO to be among the best examples of late 13th century and early 14th century architecture in Europe and serve as a reminder of Edward I’s efforts to exert power over the region.

For more information contact:

VisitBritain Media Team

Assets to download

Download images in this article

Download DOC version of this article

Location tags

The most impressive castles in England

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-castles-in-england

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 16.11.2022

Historic attractions abound in our green and pleasant land. There are ornate stately homes, gothic cathedrals and chocolate-box villages at every turn, but among the most impressive examples of heritage are the slew of majestic castles in England .

1. For Harry Potter fans: Alnwick Castle

2. one of the best castles in england — bamburgh castle, 3. leeds castle — a true fairy tale palace, 4. the deeply historical dover castle, 5. for a picturesque english castle — bodiam castle, 6. windsor castle — the oldest castle in england, 7. the commanding warkworth castle, 8. hever castle — the home of anne boleyn, 9. tintagel castle — the birthplace of king arthur, 10. warwick castle — a norman castle in england, 11. lancaster castle — historical site turned modern-day prison.

• 12. Carlisle Castle, Cumbria's mightiest castle

13. The forbidding Lincoln Castle, Lincolnshire

• 14. Highclere Castle of "Downton Abbey"

15. Corfe Castle for a beautiful hill top castle

16. arundel castle: home of the barons hall, 17. framlingham castle — one of the best castles in england, 18. the home of royalty — highcliffe castle.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to England , your essential guide for visiting England .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

20 days  / from 2994 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1350 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

5 days  / from 638 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Alnwick Castle , Northumberland, is undoubtedly one of the finest medieval castles in England. It’s owned by the Percys, the Dukes of Northumberland, who have presided over the estate since 1309. More recently, however, the castle found fame as Hogwarts School in the Harry Potter movies.

Take a scenic, coastal tour into the Kingdom of Northumbria and explore the medieval market town of Alnwick's stunning castle and gardens.

Find hotels close to Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle was used in Harry Potter movies © Gail Johnson/Shutterstock

Another Northumbrian gem, Bamburgh Castle , can be found in the little village of the same name . It’s most formidable when seen from the beach, where acres of sky, sea and dunes lead up to the castle’s dramatic setting atop a rocky basalt crag. This impressive medieval castle first appeared in Anglo-Saxon times, but was heavily reconstructed in the nineteenth century.

Discover the Ancient warrior kings of Northumberland, visit Bamburgh Castle, and explore Ad Gefrin, England’s first whiskey distillery on this private guided tour .

Find hotels close to Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle as seen from the beach © Dave Head/Shutterstock

Its reflection shimmering in a lake, the enormous Leeds Castle , Kent, resembles a fairy-tale palace. First built around 1119 AD, it has had a chequered history and is now run as a commercial concern, with a range of paying attractions on the castle grounds including hot-air ballooning, Segway tours and jousting. The name is misleading: you’ll find it in the High Weald of Kent .

Enjoy a full day discovering the treasures of Kent , including visits to romantic Leeds Castle, historic Canterbury Cathedral and the dramatic White Cliffs of Dover.

Find hotels close to Leeds Castle

A misty Leeds Castle - majestic castle in England you should visit © JuliaST/Shutterstock

No historical stone goes unturned at Dover Castle, an astonishingly imposing defensive complex that has protected the English coast for more than two thousand years. In 1068 William the Conqueror built over the earthworks of an Iron Age hillfort here; a century later, Henry II constructed the handsome Great Tower. The castle grounds also include a Roman lighthouse, a Saxon church and a network of secret wartime tunnels.

Join a day trip from London to Kent and take a tour of Dover Castle , the country's largest castle.

Find hotels close to Dover Castle

Dover Castle overlooking the English Channel © IVAN VIEITO GARCIA/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

One of the country’s most picturesque castles, Bodiam castle is a classically stout square block with rounded corner turrets, battlements and a wide moat. When it was built in 1385, it was state-of-the-art military architecture, but fell into neglect until restoration in the last century. The extremely steep spiral staircases will test all but the strongest of thighs.

Travelling around England, check out our list of the best things to do in England .

Find hotels close to Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle in East Sussex © Jaroslav Sekeres/Shutterstock

The oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, towering above the town of Windsor in the Berkshire countryside just outside London, Windsor Castle is still important as a ceremonial residence of the Queen. The castle itself is an imposing sight, while inside you can explore the State Apartments and artwork from the Royal Collection.

Discover the royal castle of Windsor, the mysterious standing stone circle of Stonehenge, and the historic university city of Oxford on a full-day tour from London .

Find hotels close to Windsor Castle

The imposing Windsor Castle, one of the Queen's residences © sloukam/Shutterstock

Ruined but well preserved, Warkworth Castle has Norman origins, although the main building was constructed using sandstone during the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Take in the view from the north of the hamlet of Warkworth, from where the grey stone terraces of the long main street slope up towards the commanding remains of the Castle.

The Rough Guides to England and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find hotels close to Warkworth Castle

Warkworth Castle has commanding views © Craig Duncanson/Shutterstock

The moated Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII, and where Anne of Cleves, Henry’s fourth wife, lived after their divorce. Bought by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor in 1903, it has been assiduously restored in mock Tudor style yet it retains an intimate feel. Outside you can explore Waldorf Astor’s beautiful Italian Garden including a splashy water maze.

Find hotels close to Hever Castle

Hever Castle – once home to Anne Boleyn © Lilly Trott/Shutterstock

Myth and legend surround the desolate ruins of Tintagel Castle, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Sited on an islet along a wild and rugged stretch of Cornwall’s coast, the remains of the buildings have nearly all but decayed since it was deserted in the seventeenth century.

Explore Tintagel with our tailor-made 12-day hiking tour to Northern Cornwall .

Find hotels close to Tintagel Castle

The view at Tintagel - ruins of the magical castle in England © Valery Egorov/Shutterstock

This whopping castle standing over the River Avon is well worth visiting. Historians think the first fortress was constructed here by the Saxons, but the most significant expansions were made by the Normans and later in the nineteenth century. Save time to explore the extensive grounds, too.

Explore Shakespeare’s birthplace and enjoy some time to explore Stratford-Upon-Avon. Have an extended visit of Warwick Castle and be part of a British medieval experience.

Find hotels close to Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle, overlooking the River Avon © David Steele/Shutterstock

From the dungeons to the ornate courtrooms, Lancaster Castle is a historical tour-de-force. Defences have been sited high above the river here since Roman times, and the building served as a working prison right up until 2011. Engaging guided tours bring the castle’s history to life.

Find hotels close to Lancaster Castle

Lancaster Castle — one of the best castles in England © Steve Allen/Shutterstock

12. Carlisle Castle, Cumbria's mightiest castle

Cumbria’s mightiest castle dominates the county capital Carlisle, were it has stood for over nine hundred years. Among its claims to fame is that it was where Elizabeth I held Mary Queen of Scots captive in 1568. Climb the battlements for great views over the town.

If you are planning to visit Cumbria in winter read our guide about best winter walking in the Lake District .

Find hotels close to Carlisle Castle

Carlisle Castle - medieval castle in Lake District © stocksolutions/Shutterstock

Intact and forbidding, Lincoln Castle ’s walls incorporate bits and pieces from the twelfth to the nineteenth centuries, with a wall walkway offering great views over town. Recently the former debtors’ prison has been revamped to exhibit several rare documents, most notably one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta.

Find hotels close to Lincoln Castle

Lincoln Castle - where you can see a rare copy of the Magna Carta © Peter R Foster IDMA/Shutterstock

14. Highclere Castle of "Downton Abbey"

Tucked away in the northern reaches of Hampshire, 20 miles north of Winchester, Highclere Castle will be very familiar to fans of hit period drama, Downton Abbey , which is filmed here. Home to Lord Carnarvon and his family, the house is approached via a long drive that winds through a stunning 5,000-acre estate, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Capability Brown.

Explore Downton village and Downton Abbey and relive aristocratic life of a century ago.

Find hotels close to Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle – otherwise known as Downtown Abbey © Alice-D/Shutterstock

The romantic castle ruins crowning the hill behind the village of Corfe Castle are perhaps the most evocative in England. The family seat of Sir John Bankes, Attorney General to Charles I, this Royalist stronghold withstood a Cromwellian siege for six weeks, gallantly defended by Lady Bankes.

One of her own men, Colonel Pitman, eventually betrayed the castle to the Roundheads, after which it was reduced to its present gap-toothed state by gunpowder. Apparently the victorious Roundheads were so impressed by Lady Bankes’ courage that they allowed her to take the keys to the castle with her.

Dorset is one of the most picturesque places in England. Find more beautiful English landscapes in our guide to the most beautiful places in England .

Find hotels close to Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle – site of a dramatic battle in the English Civil War © Kevin Standage/Shutterstock

Despite its medieval appearance, much of what you see of Arundel Castle is comparatively new, the result of a series of lavish reconstructions from 1718 onwards, after the original Norman structure was badly damaged during the Civil War.

Inside the main castle, highlights include the impressive Barons Hall and the library, which has paintings by Gainsborough, Holbein and Van Dyck. On the edge of the castle grounds, the fourteenth-century Fitzalan Chapel houses tombs of past dukes of Norfolk. Nearby, the Collector Earl’s Garden is a playfully theatrical take on a Jacobean garden, with exotic planting, and pavilions, obelisks and urns made from green oak rather than stone.

Find hotels close to Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle in Arundel City, West Sussex, England © AdobeStock

The crenellations of Framlingham Castle cut a classic shape at the top of Church Street. The castle dates from the twelfth century, and was built by the Bigod dynasty later becoming the seat of the dukes of Norfolk. It’s little more than a shell inside, but the stone curtain wall, with its thirteen towers, has survived almost intact, a splendid example of medieval military architecture, many of them topped by elegant Tudor brick chimney stacks.

You can get good views of the castle from the outside by following the footpaths that lead around the moat and down to and around the lake or “mere” below, where you can see across the valley to Framlingham College.

Find hotels close to Framlingham Castle

Medieval Castle of Framlingham, England © AdobeStock

Highcliffe Castle was built in 1831-1836 and is the epitome of Lord Stuart de Rothesay's imagination. In the years since it was built, kings and queens, princes and princesses have stayed here.

In the early 1950s it was briefly an orphanage, after which the building was used as a seminary to train students for the priesthood. Just before the students left, tragedy struck: a fire engulfed the Great Hall. An even more devastating fire broke out the following year. For two decades the castle stood in ruins, exposed to the weather and vandals.

Today the castle has been restored thanks to government funding and is open to the public. It now hosts weddings, fairs, exhibitions and plays throughout the year. The Highcliffe Castle is a treasure in the heart of the community and a popular tourist attraction.

Find hotels close to Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe castle in Dorset © Shutterstock

For more travel inspiration check out our guide about the best road trips in the UK .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to England ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to England or The Rough Guide to Great Britain . If you travel further in England , read more about the best time to go , the best places to visit and best things to do in England. For inspiration use the England itineraries from The Rough Guide to England and our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © D K Grove/Shutterstock

• History Culture Heritage
• Architecture
• United Kingdom
• Inspiration
• See & Do

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for England

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to England

• Eating and drinking in England
• Sports and Outdoor activities in England
• Travel Tips England for planning and on the go
• Getting around England: Transportation Tips
• How to get to England
• Shopping tips for England
• Best time to visit England

Find even more inspiration for 57 here

Ready to travel and discover england, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

21 famous castles in England to explore

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2022

With so many incredible castles in England it is pretty much impossible to miss adding one (at least) into your itinerary. Deciding which one can be the problem.

In this article we take a journey from London and the most famous castle of them all – the Tower of London site of numerous executions (including a couple of Henry VIII’s wives) – through the English countryside from south to north to discover 21 of the best castles in England.

To save money when purchasing tickets I have indicated if the castle is a National Trust or English Heritage site. Members gain free entry but must book a timed entry in advance. (Visiting from overseas? English Heritage have a membership scheme for you)

The Tower of London

Windsor castle, arundel castle, leeds castle, dover castle, hever castle, bodiam castle, alnwick castle, bamburgh castle, lindisfarne castle, warkworth castle, dunstanburgh castle, durham castle, tintagel castle, carisbrooke castle, corfe castle, sudeley castle, warwick castle, kenilworth castle, lincoln castle, bolsover castle, bonus – downton abbey aka highclere castle, planning to visit english castles – some tips.

Famous Castles in London and South East England

One of the best English castles (and possibly the most famous) would have to be the Tower of London . Located on the north bank of the River Thames the tower is an internationally famous and iconic structure that has been part of London’s skyline for 1,000 years.

After building castles throughout the English countryside, William the Conqueror built the Tower of London to protect the city and to demonstrate his power. Since then, it has been a fortress, a royal home and a prison.

Today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London and contains a wealth of history as well as the Crown Jewels. The Yeoman Warders, or the Beefeaters, greet visitors and explain the castle’s amazing history.

Entry to the Tower of London is included in the London Pass .

Read more | Visiting the Tower of London – tips, tricks & FAQ’s

One of the most famous English castles is Windsor Castle, built in 1070 by William the Conqueror in Berkshire, some 24 miles outside of London.

It is the oldest occupied castle in the world and has been home to 39 English monarchs. When not in Buckingham Palace , the Queen resides there. Since she can’t use all 1,000 rooms, some of the castle is open to the public.

Visitors can tour the opulent state rooms and apartments and see a sizeable portion of the royal art collection. The grounds are impressive, as is the lovely gothic cathedral, St. George’s Chapel.

Check online for the schedule of the changing of the guards — you won’t want to miss it.

Good to know – Windsor Castle is a popular stop on many guided day trip tours for example this one from London to Stonehenge and Oxford or this one from London to Bath and Stonehenge . If you are pushed for time and want to see a combination of attractions we recommend booking a tour.

Read more | How to travel to Windsor Castle from London

On a hilltop overlooking the River Arun, 65 miles from London, is Arundel Castle, the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk for the last 850 years. It is a grand castle known for impressive round towers, gothic windows and a distinctive motte that was built in 1068.

In the 19th century, the castle was converted into a country home. Because of an impeding visit by Queen Victoria and Albert, Arundel was modernised and central heat and electricity were added.

Today, even though it is still occupied by the Duke of Norfolk, many rooms as well as the formal gardens are open to the public.

Good to know – It is possible to combine a trip to Arundel and Brighton on this private Brighton & Arundel Castle day tour which includes door-to-door transfers from central London.

Read more | Top 10 places to visit in the South East

Just an hour from London, Leeds Castle sits upon the River Len in an impossibly picturesque setting.

It dates back to the Normans, who built the original castle around 1119. It passed through the hands of six medieval queens until it got the attention of Henry VIII who used it as a residence for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

Eventually it became a private home and is now open to the public. Visitors can tour the castle and explore the lovely grounds that offer spectacular views of the countryside.

Unlike many old English castles, Leeds has a maze made out of 2,400 yew trees which has proven to be a popular all-ages attraction.

Why not combine a visit to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover on this full-day tour to all the top destinations in The Garden of England , Kent?

Read more | 7 castles you can visit on a day trip from London

Dover Castle is the largest and arguably the most imposing of all the English medieval castles. Only 90 miles from London, it has been a symbol of English power for centuries because of its strategic location overlooking the English Channel.

The castle was built by Henry II in the 1180s but the land had been a military stronghold since the days of the Romans. Visitors can see the remains of a Roman lighthouse and travel through English history as they tour the great towers, narrow staircases and tunnels.

The grounds are extensive and well worth exploring, so make sure to wear your walking shoes.

Dover Castle is an English Heritage property .

In 1270, William de Hever, a sheriff under King Edward I, built himself a castle in Kent, 30 miles outside of London. At that time, Hever Castle had a gatehouse, a walled bailey and a moat with a drawbridge.

A few centuries later, Hever Castle became the home of the Boleyn family, and they added a Tudor home inside of the castle walls. Future Queen to Henry VIII and mother to Elizabeth I, Anne Boleyn, spent her childhood there.

The castle has since passed through many owners and was completely renovated in the early 1900s. Today, visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the lovely castle, its 125-acre grounds and unique double moat.

Inside of the castle, they’ll find sumptuously decorated rooms with an assortment of historical paintings and artefacts relating to the Boleyn family and to over 700 years of English history.

Read more | A tour of Tudor England

One of the best examples of a medieval castle in England is Bodiam Castle in East Sussex.

With its moat, dramatic gatehouse entrance and impressive circular towers, it very much looks the part of a castle from a fairytale. Built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, it was primarily a defensive structure.

In 1926, it was given to the National Trust. Today, visitors should not expect to see luxurious state rooms or great halls as the castle’s inside is nearly ruined.

You can, however, climb a few of its towers but beware — the stairs are very steep. The grounds are lovely and could take several hours to explore.

As mentioned above Bodiam Castle is a National Trust property.

Beautiful Castles in North East England

A Northumberland castle known for its history and dramatic architecture, Alnwick Castle is over 1,000 years old. As home of the Duke of Northumberland, it is the second largest occupied castle in England.

Originally a built in 1096 as a small Norman fortress, the castle has been remodelled and expanded over the years into what it is today.

A large portion of the castle is open to the public including the Italianate staterooms, the inner bailey and the gun terrace.

Recently, the castle was portrayed in two of the Harry Potter movies as Hogwarts. Consequently, for an extra charge, they offer broomstick training for any enthusiastic young Harry Potter fans.

Alnwick is easily visited via tour on a day trip from Edinburgh .

Read more | Things to do in Alnwick

On the Northumberland coast, perched atop of a volcanic plateau, is Bamburgh Castle, one of the oldest English castles to visit. With a history that dates back to 420 AD, it was the first castle to succumb to artillery during the War of the Roses.

Since 1894, it has been home to the Armstrong family. There are 14 rooms that are open to the public including the Great Kitchen, the King’s Hall and the Keep.

History lovers will adore the hundreds of years of artefacts throughout the castle but should also make sure to spend time exploring the beach and grounds.

Looking for a cottage along the Northumberland coast for your visit? Check out my guide to the best Northumberland Coastal villages and cottages for your stay.

Read more | Top 10 places to visit in the North East

Lindisfarne Castle is a 16th century Tudor fort located on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in Northumberland. In 634 AD, it was the home of the first monastic community in England but was eventually abandoned after Viking attacks.

In the early 1900s, Lindisfarne Castle was remodeled into a country retreat. Luckily, many of its 16th century features still exist, like its lovely vaulted passages.

There are a few partially furnished rooms open to the public but it’s the sweeping views during the walk up to the castle that visitors love the most.

Keep in mind, Lindisfarne is a tidal island. When the tide is high, the causeway disappears, so planning ahead is essential.

Lindisfarne Castle is a National Trust property .

Read more | Visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

In the 14th century, the powerful Percy family began building a castle in Northumberland. They chose a loop of the River Coquet as the location, where a 12th century motte-and-bailey structure previously existed.

Today, the Warkworth Castle is ruined but there’s still plenty to explore. The Keep and the kitchens are there as well as the Great Hall and the Great Tower, a marvel of medieval architecture and supposedly the place where Henry “Hotspur” Percy plotted treason against Henry IV.

The Lion Tower, built in 1480, still stands and was named for the symbol of the Percy family. The lion statue is still visible today.

Read more | A drive along the Northumberland Coastal Route

On the Northumberland coast you will find the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. It was a 14th century fortification built by Earl Thomas of Lancaster. After he was executed, it was claimed by the crown who, because of its strategic location, maintained it for hundreds of years.

Today, it is a crumbling shell of its former self and is owned by the National Trust. Still, it is a highly atmospheric place with extraordinary views of the beach, the sea and the rugged coastline.

Climb through the great gatehouse and explore the Lilburn Tower. When you go, park your car in Craster and walk the one and a half miles along the coast to reach the Dunstanburgh ruins.

Dunstanburgh Castle is a National Trust and English Heritage property .

Read more | Best castles to visit in Northumberland

If you’re a student at University College in Durham England, there’s a chance you might get to live in a castle — Durham Castle, that is. Since 1840, the castle has been used by University College and today, over 100 college students call it home.

In the 11th century, William the Conqueror built the castle and it quickly became a Norman stronghold. Its northern position would also eventually help maintain control over the Scottish border.

Today, 50-minute public tours are available throughout the week, allowing visitors inside to see the Norman chapel with its well preserved Norman doorway.

There’s also a 17th-century black staircase and other historical features any castle lover will enjoy. Check online for tour times and availability.

Read more about Durham in my complete Durham Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

Best castles in South West England

In northwestern England, on Cornwall’s rugged coastline , are the windswept ruins of Tintagel Castle. Even in its day, 800 years ago, Tintagel wasn’t your typical medieval castle — it wasn’t built for defence or military advantage.

The King of England’s brother, the Earl of Cornwall, built his castle on a cliff to recreate the setting of the legends of Camelot. Was he the ultimate King Arthur fan or just whimsical and a touch irresponsible with his brother’s money? It’s difficult to say.

Within a decade after construction was finished, the castle began falling into to ruin. Today, with its dramatic ocean-side setting, Tintagel feels rich in both history and legend.

Tintagel is an English Heritage property .

Read more | Top 10 places to visit in South West England

Carisbrooke Castle was built on the Isle of Wight in the 12th century. Throughout the years, this very romantic castle has been an artillery fortress, a prison for Charles I, a royal summer home and until the 1940s, it housed the official office of the Governor of the Isle of Wight.

Much of it is still standing today, including the Great Hall and Great Chamber. There is also an Isle of Wight Museum in one of the upper rooms.

Visitors will enjoy the breathtaking views from the castle’s keep and battlements. Children and adults alike will fall in love with the Carisbrooke Donkeys and enjoy watching them in action working the 16th century treadwheel.

Carisbrooke Castle is an English Heritage property.

The 1,000-year-old ruins of Corfe Castle can be found in the county of Dorset , in the village of the same name.

Corfe Castle once occupied an area of strategic importance because it protected the route between Wareham and Swanage in a gap in the Purbeck Hills.

Originally built of wood, William the Conqueror refortified it with stone. Eventually, it became a royal fortress and lasted for hundreds of years.

Today, it is a favorite attraction for its intriguing beauty and rich history. After exploring the crumbling walls and hidden nooks of the ruins, visitors should make a point of seeking out the delightful shops and tea rooms in the village.

Corfe Castle is a National Trust property.

Sudeley Castle dates from the 15th century and is one of the more romantic castles in England. It’s tucked in the Cotswolds near Winchcombe and has been associated with some of the most famous royal names in English history including Henry VIII and Katherine Parr, who is buried there.

It was recently refurbished and though it is privately owned, it is open to the public for tours and available for private events.

Visitors can explore some of the castle’s rooms, learn about their history and then go investigate the overgrown and highly atmospheric ruins.

Explore the 10 award winning gardens, the on-site restaurant and the children’s play area.

Don’t miss adding a visit to Sudeley Castle into your itinerary as it is one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds .

Read more | Cotswolds Travel Guide

Castles in the West Midlands of England

In 1068, in the small country town of Warwickshire on the River Avon, William the Conqueror began building a humble motte-and-bailey structure. Eventually, it would be fortified with stone and would become the great Warwick Castle.

Today, the castle is unoccupied and visitors will marvel at how well its 14th century architecture has been preserved. Tour the Great Hall and state rooms, both packed with historical objects.

Outside of the castle, you’ll see staff members in period costume as you tour the grounds. Be sure to watch the aerobatic bird demonstration or take some time to learn about medieval weaponry. Warwick Castle is a must visit if you have children as they have so many fun activities throughout the year,

You wouldn’t know by looking at it now, but Kenilworth Castle was a crucial royalist stronghold during the English Civil War.

Located in the town of Kenilworth in Warwickshire, the castle was built over several centuries and has the distinction of having survived a six-month siege in 1266. Today it is the largest ruined castle in England but still has fine examples of 12th to 16th century architecture throughout.

The Tudor gatehouse and the Norman keep are noteworthy examples and shouldn’t be missed. The gardens have been restored to an approximation of their 17th century appearance and make for a lovely area to stroll around and take in the views of the countryside.

Kenilworth Castle is an English Heritage property .

Read more | 10 places to visit in the West Midlands

Castles in the East Midlands

In medieval times, Lincoln was one of the most important settlements in England. Perhaps that’s why William the Conqueror built Lincoln Castle over an already existing Roman fortress in 11th Century.

Lincoln Castle is unique because it has two mottes and a Victorian prison inside the castle walls that sightseers can actually explore. It also is the home to one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta.

You can visit the castle grounds for free but you need to buy a ticket to do the medieval wall walk as well as tour the prison, enter the chapel and see the Magna Carta — all well worth doing.

Read more | 10 places to visit in the East Midlands

In the English county of Derbyshire castle enthusiasts can find Bolsover Castle. It was built by Royalist Commander Sir Charles Cavendish in the 17th century over the remains of a 12th castle. No expense was spared as Cavendish wanted all guests to be impressed and to have a good time.

Today the castle is ruined but its stunning location and spectacular views make up for the building’s degraded condition. Since 1984 English Heritage has cared for the castle and has recently restored the parapets on the wall-walk.

The gardens are lovely and have a Venus fountain as their focal point. Plan to spend several hours exploring the extensive grounds.

Famous as the home of the Crawley family in the highly acclaimed (and popular) British TV series Downton Abbey. Highclere is actually the seat of the Earl of Carnarvon and family and is located in Hampshire.

It was the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, George Herbert who famously discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in the 1920s.

The castle is open to visitors throughout the year and is included in many tours from London.

READ – How to plan a visit to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

Do make sure you plan ahead if you wish to visit any of the castles mentioned in this article. Check opening times and any restrictions. Wear comfortable shoes (cobble stones and uneven ground tends to be a feature of many of the castles and is unforgiving on the feet) And of course don’t forget your camera!

Love castles? Want more? Check out my guides to the best Scottish castles and the best Welsh castles to visit!

Many of these castles belong to either English Heritage or National Trust UK . It may be cost effective to join these organisations (annual membership) if you are a UK resident.

For overseas visitors there are alternate membership options worth considering if you are planning to include a number of castles, stately homes, ancient monuments, historic houses, gardens in your itinerary.

If spending the night in an English castle is on your UK bucket list you will be happy to hear that there are a few castles that offer accommodation. Check out my England Accommodation Guide for further information.

You will have noticed that there are a lot of castles along the North East coast. Northumberland actually has the most castles of any English county.

If you are interested to learn more about English history Northumberland is the perfect destination (it also has the advantage of having a beautiful coastline, the best night skies in the UK, some beautiful towns and villages plus numerous Roman ruins!) Read more in my Northumberland Travel Guide

Read more about the UK in my travel guides

• Brighton Travel Guide (with tips, itinerary and map)
• Lake District Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

Join my UK and London travel planning group on Facebook for more tips, inspiration and help from other travelers planning future travel to London and the UK.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

The 13 Most Beautiful Castles in England

Visit these castles in England for a fairy-tale vacation.

VisitBritain/Yin Sun Photography 

If there’s one thing England does better than anywhere else in the world — aside from medieval playwrights, pub lunches, and 1960s boy bands — it’s castles. 

This is, after all, a country that is home to nearly 800 surviving stone fortresses, some dating back as far as the 11th century. Whether you’re a dedicated Harry Potter or Downtown Abbey fan, a passing history lover, or a genuine drawbridge devotee, read on for the ultimate fortified favorites to add to your next English itinerary. 

Arundel Castle, West Sussex

VisitBritain/Pete Seaward

An easy hour's drive or train ride from London, Arundel has been home to the Dukes of Norfolk for more than 850 years, and they’ve done a fine job with its upkeep. This was one of the first castles in Europe to have central heating, electricity, and elevators in the towers, and it remains in excellent condition today. Visitors can check out many of its magnificent rooms, as well as its 14th-century chapel and exquisite gardens. Meanwhile, the quaint town of Arundel, huddled about the foot of the castle, is well worth exploring, too (particularly the legendary Black Rabbit Pub , which serves one of the best Sunday roasts in Sussex). 

Highclere Castle, Hampshire

Peter Orr Photography/Getty Images

The “real” Downtown Abbey, Highclere was built in the late 17th century, making it one of England’s youngest major castles. It is also indisputably one of the most beautiful, with its intricate state rooms, elegant saloon, and palatial dining room. A big part of the appeal is its sprawling grounds — best enjoyed with one of the castle’s famous picnic hampers, containing impeccable sponge cakes, scones, and sandwiches, as well as a demi-bottle of Joseph Perrier Champagne. 

Windsor Castle, Berkshire

Mark Kerrison/Getty Images

Royal watchers (and fans of The Crown ) will be well aware of Windsor Castle , the family home of British kings and queens for over 1,000 years — and still a residence of King Charles III today. Famously the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, the good news is plenty of the property is now open to the public, including the grandiose State Apartments and gothic St. George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married.   

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Gannet77/Getty Images

Doubling as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter movies, Alnwick has been occupied by the Dukes of Northumberland for over 700 years. The current duke and duchess live in a private part of the 11th-century fortress, but the rest is open to the public for seven months of the year, with highlights including an important gallery of Italian paintings, a lavish library, and a dedicated Harry Potter tour — including broomstick lessons in the courtyard (Golden Snitch not included).    

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Jacob King - PA Images/Getty Images

One of the oldest fortified citadels in England, Warwick Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068 but has been refortified several times since. Today, the huge castle is “full to the turrets” with family-friendly activities, including dungeon tours, fiery ballista demonstrations, and jousting tournaments. Overnight rooms are available in the castle (including tower suites with four-poster beds) or the riverside Knight’s Village, where you’ll find a cozy collection of woodland lodges.

Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Forget your regular dukes and lords; Bamburgh Castle was home to the Anglo-Saxon kings of Northumbria before England was even a country. Today the breathtaking building, perched on a dramatic rocky outcrop overlooking the wild North Sea, is considered one of Europe’s finest coastal fortresses. When you visit, don’t miss the dazzling collection of medieval armor in the state rooms, or the famous Bamburgh Sword — a seventh-century weapon shrouded in myth.

Leeds Castle, Kent

ptaxa/Getty Images

Despite its name, you’ll find Leeds Castle hundreds of miles from the city of Leeds, on a peaceful lake island in the middle of Kent. Surrounded by a handsome moat, the history of this fairy-tale fortress goes back 900 years and involves no less than six queens calling it home (hence its nickname, “The Ladies Castle”). The gardens are almost as photogenic as the castle itself and include a fiendish circular maze, mirroring the shape of a queen’s crown.

Sudeley Castle, Gloucestershire

Visit Britain/Sudeley Castle LLP

Considering its importance in English history, it’s baffling how Sudeley Castle is not better known. Tucked away in the idyllic Cotswolds near the pretty market town of Winchcombe, it was a favorite of influential monarchs ranging from Richard the Lionheart to Queen Elizabeth I. Highlights include the "20 treasures of Sudeley," a collection of important artifacts that altered the historical narrative, and a charming 15th-century chapel in the gardens, the final resting place of Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII and the most infamous “survivor” of the Tudor era. 

Framlingham Castle, Suffolk

Heritage Images/Getty Images

A perfect example of the “motte and bailey” fortifications of the 11th and 12th centuries, Framlingham Castle sits in the rolling Suffolk countryside, about a 30-minute drive northeast of Ipswich. Famed as the place where Mary I was first proclaimed Queen of England, modern visitors can hike around the castle’s intact curtain wall, enjoying magnificent views of the nearby River Ore before retiring to the castle café for a well-earned pot of tea.

Rochester Castle, Kent

Strategically placed by a vital river crossing on the old London Road, Rochester Castle is a miraculously well-preserved 12th-century keep — particularly considering the number of battles it’s seen over the centuries. One of the main strongholds in the rebellion against Bad King John, it lost an entire tower to a pig fat bomb in 1215 but was rebuilt under Henry III, remaining a viable fortress until the 16th century.   

Bodiam Castle, East Sussex

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

If you like your strongholds encircled with a deep moat, then Bodiam is the castle for you. Built in 1385 to defend England against a feared French invasion, it ticks all of the classic battlement boxes: stout round towers, traditional gatehouse, and an intimidating  portcullis. Sadly, this medieval beauty — just 14 miles from the picturesque Sussex coast — is largely just an external stone shell today. But what a shell. 

The Tower of London

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Although best known as England’s most ignominious prison during the Middle Ages, the Tower of London was built as a fortified castle and royal residence and remains both to this day. Supposedly one of the most haunted buildings in the country (two of Henry VIII’s wives were beheaded here, for starters), it’s also one of London’s top tourist attractions. Nearly three million visitors flock here every year to see the ravens, the dungeons, and the crown jewels on popular tours led by the larger-than-life Yeoman Warders, or “Beefeaters.”   

Dover Castle, Kent

Medioimages/Photodisc/Getty Images

Nicknamed “The Key to England” due to its defensive significance, Dover Castle looks out over the blue waters of the English Channel towards France — a mere 21 miles away. Built in the 12th century, it is unique among England’s ancient fortresses in that it continued to serve a defensive purpose until well into the 20th century. The highlights here are the unmissable secret wartime tunnels, the robust Great Tower itself (now an interactive museum), and the remains of a Roman lighthouse, which dates from the year 50 and is one of the oldest standing buildings in Britain. 

22 England’s Best Castles To Visit [Castle Guide]

For many people the word ”England” it’s always been associated with medieval castles, palaces, knights and queens.

Thanks to the filming industry, English Castles are advertised on a big scale.

It is indeed the land of castles which are spread across the country from sea to sea, and many of them are still standing mightily today!

If you find yourself a castle lover, below you have an ultimate guide to the most beautiful castles you can visit in England.

Each of the buildings has its own magnificent story behind where you can step back almost thousands of years.

1.Windsor Castle, the Queen’s Weekend Home. 

Being the home of 39 monarchs since the 11th century, Windsor Castle embodies almost a thousand years of architectural history.

William the Conqueror built Windsor Castle during his campaign in England designed to protect their presence in the outskirts of London.

Like many other castles at that time it was initially a wooden motte-and-bailey castle which later upgraded to stone fortifications.

Windsor Castle had seen all the ups and downs of England’s Middle Ages and modern history , from the Baron’s War up until Second World War when it served as a bombing refugee for the royal family.

To the present day, Windsor is the Queen’s weekend’s favourite residence which is also the world’s longest-occupied palace.

Daily thousands of tourists are heading to the Castle to find out more about its history, enjoy the guided tours or just to have a picnic on the family day.

As it’s located just on outside of M25, it will take you half an hour by car and 40 minutes by train which are running regularly from Paddington train station in central London.

Address : Windsor SL4 1LJ

2.Warwick Castle, a great family escape.

Located in the town of Warwick, Warwick Castle is another famous English fortress which William the Conqueror built during his conquest.

First built in 1068 like Windsor, it began as a wooden motte-and-Bailey type castle located on the bank of the River Avon.

Normans founded Warick with the intent of strengthening and control in the Midlands while William advances his armies to the north.

Warwick was used as a stronghold up until the 17th century when the Greville family converted it into a country house and lived up until 1978 when they sold it to Tussauds Group.

Today Nick Leslau is the owner of the site, but Merlin Entertainments are operating the Castle through a 35-year lease. 

Warwick has recommended itself as one of the best family out of Castles in the UK.

Once there, you will experience the guided tour through well maintained inside and out architecture, castle dungeon show with real actors, restaurants, picnic area, Knights Village accommodation and open-air events which include the world’s biggest functional trebuchet.

Warwick is also one of few castles in England that has its doors open for those wh o wants to spend Christmas in a castle .

Address : Warwick CV34 4QU

3.Tower of London a 900 year-old fortress.

Officially Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in central London.

Also called a “White Tower” the Tower of London is one of England’s most iconic buildings.

William the Conqueror built the Castle in 1066 to an unprecedented scale to demonstrate the power of the Norman Kingdom.

The Tower of London hosted significant events in England’s history, including the executions of three English Queens.

The Castle is also a surviving example of the best Norman military architecture.

Ones inside it’s hard to realise that our ancestors could build such a tower almost a thousand years ago.

If you are in London for a weekend, we encourage you to check out the White Tower, as it’s easily accessible in the centre among many other attractions.

You can get to the Tower of London by walking about 7 minutes from Tower Hill (Circle & District Line) underground station or about 15 minutes from London Bridges Station(Northern Line).

Address : St Katharine’s & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB

Opening Hours

Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

4.Bamburgh Castle, a Northumberland Gem.

Another gem on our bucket list was built by William the Conqueror rising overlooking the village Baburgh gracefully on one side and the North Sea on the other.

The originally Celtic Brittonic fort build in 420, later passed between Britons and Anglo-Saxons three times and Vikings wrecked the fortress in 993.

In the year 1095 Normans built a brand new castle which is the core of the present Castle.

As all the castles on our list, Bamburgh has a rich background of events and famous owners.

In 1894 William Armstrong bought and restored the Castle, later he opened it to the public and still belongs to its family.

It’s a great family-friendly castle where you can easily reserve yourself a full day for it.

Getting there early enough will allow you to take advantage of all assets of the Castle; the interior, shop, cafe, a walk on the beautiful beach or even stay overnight in the Bamburgh’s accommodations.

If you’re spending a whole weekend in Northumberland, you might consider visiting Alnwick and Lindisfarne castles; both are 17 miles away.

Address : Bamburgh NE69 7DF

5.Bodiam Castle, England’s Most photogenic castle.

The most iconic Castle of England by many reviews, even if you are not a castle lover, you must’ve seen it on the cover of the book, magazines, music videos or movies.

Edward Dalyingrigge built Bodiam in 1385, and it is more of a gorgeous fortified country house rather than a robust medieval castle.

Even though England was going through the Hundred Years War with France at the time, Sir Edward built the Castle more for showing off his influence and surprise the guests rather than to resist an attack of an invasion.

Lord Curzon donated the Castle in 1924 on his death to the National Trust and now is open to the public.

Bodiam Castle is in just 1.5 hours drive from London, where you’ll also enjoy England’s stunning countryside views on the way to the Castle.

By public transport, you need to get a train from Charing Cross to Hastings and the bus 349 to Hawkhurst, the bus stops in front of the main entrance.

Address : Bodiam, near Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA

Ticket Prices:

There is free entry to the castle grounds; however, there is a small fee for those who want to enter the Castle.

Opening Hours:  10:00am -04:00pm

6.Dover Castle, the Key to England.

Also called in the “The Key to England” Dover castle was one of England’s most strategic border garrisons.

It’s an absolute must-see for castle enthusiasts as some sources say it is one of th e tallest Castle in England, along with Warwick, Rochester and the Tower of London .

You will step inside Henry’s great tower and explore the recreated WWI interiors, astonishing views for the rooftop over the English Channel.

You can see and feel even the dramatic events of World War Two by experiencing the Castle’s underground hospital and tunnels where the people from Dunkirk’s evacuation are made real. 

There is also the oldest surviving lighthouse in the country and an Anglo-Saxon church and many more things to do and see at Dover castle.

It is a great family-friendly castle as you are allowed with your food and just have a picnic in the Castle’s courtyard.

Getting to Dover Castle 

If you’re in London, it will take you about two hours drive or by national express buses.

If you take the M2 route, you can have a stopover in Canterbury on the way if you have time, which is a lovely city to visit.

Address : Castle Hill Rd, Dover CT16 1HU

Opening Hours:  

Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 4 pm.

7.Highclere Castle, great for Downtown Abbey fans.

A magnificent country house built in 1679 and famous worldwide as the primary filming location of a historical drama series Downton Abbey.

During the First World War 5th Countess of Carnarvon Converted the Castle Into a hospital for wounded soldiers, and in the Second World War as a home for children evacuated from London.

Highclere Castle is a perfect stopover on your trips to Cornwall or Wales and not far from London.

The palace is an excellent family day out destination where you can explore the grand oak staircase, the estate rooms, and vast gardens recreating every scene from the popular series.

Explore the newly opened Egyptian exhibition, standard and special guided tours or even spend Christmas at the Castle 

Address : Highclere, Newbury RG20 9RN

Opening Hours:  9:30 am – 5.00 pm.

8.Leeds Castle, loveliest castle in the world.

Moving back to the east you can visit another beautiful English moated stronghold, the Leeds Castle.

You are probably asking yourself why it is called Leeds Castle? When everyone knows the city of Leeds is 250 miles away in Yorkshire.

But not many people know there is a small village next to the Castle, also called Leeds village.

Like many other English castles, it has all the features that a real castle tourist would love to see; gatehouse, drawbridge, portcullis and a massive lake-size moat which makes it unique.

Leeds Castle is often referred to as the “Castle of Queens” as it was a home for six medieval Queens.

Getting There 

Leeds Castle is just in. One hour and fifteen minutes drive from London and about 30 minutes for Dover ferry port, 4 miles from junction 8 of M20.

Address : Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL

Opening Hours:

Grounds and Gardens 10:00am – 06:00pm

Castle. 11:00 am – 04:00pm

9.Arundel Castle, stunning architecture and gardens.

Arundel Castle is a restored and remodelled medieval castle in Arundel, West Sussex.

Roger the Montgomery, one of the principal councillors of William the Conqueror, established the Castle in 1067.

Castle experienced severe damage during the civil war and restored in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Today opened to the public with many fun activities for any age.

You can climb on the stone keep , squeeze through narrow passages and enjoy the view from the top of the walls.

Contemplate the fine art, fabulous furniture, regency library and statues in the staterooms.

Wonder through the explosion of colours in the castle gardens where you can also meet the Fitzalan Chapel and the history behind it.

During the guided tours, you will have a chance to transform yourself into a real knight by wearing medieval costumes with a shield and a sword.

Address : Arundel BN18 9AB

  Adults £15.00

 Opening Hours:  Arundel castle is due to open 1st of April 2021

10.Framlingham Castle 

Framlingham Castle is a Motte-and-Bailey Castle located in the market town of Framlingham, Suffolk.

Built in 1148 and then destroyed by Henry ll in the aftermath of the revolt of 1173 and then rebuilt to a new mighty stronghold by Roger Bigod.

It might not offer as much as the other castles on this list, but it is still worth checking out if you are on a road trip to the east coast or Norwich.

By the reviews of our subscribers, it is a lovely family and dog-friendly castle ideal for a day out!

You can take the audio guide, climb on top of the wall and enjoy the view of the countryside and including the Mere and Framlingham College.

Getting to the Castle will take you about three hours by car and two and a half by train service to Ipswich and bus 118 to the Castle.

Address : Church St, Framlingham, Woodbridge IP13 9BP

Opening Hours:  10:00am – 04:00pm

11.Alnwick Castle, Harry Potter’s filming location.

The fans of Harry Potters and Downton Abbey will recognise these walls almost immediately.

Built in the 11 century is one of the largest castles in England sometimes called “Windsor of the North”.

Normans built Alnwick with the intent to control the border with Scotland during the Norman conquest.

Today the Castle gets visited by over a million visitors a year thanks to its appearance in popular movies like: “Elizabeth”, “Robin Hood”, “Price of Thieves”, and “Harry Potter” “.

So if you plan to bring your whole family, get some snacks with you cause the kids will want to spend some time here.

Moreover, the castles can be overcrowded according to the latest reviews so allow plenty of time to see everything that Alnwick has to offer.

If you come for far and have a couple of days available in Northumberland check out Bamburgh and Lindisfarne castles which are about 40 minutes drive from Alnwick.

Address : Alnwick NE66 1NQ

Opening Hours:  10:00am – 4:00pm daily

12.Bolsover Castle a 17th-century aristocratic retreat.

The Peverel Family built the first Castle on the site in the 12th century. Later in the 17th century, the Cavendish family reconstructed a new luxurious castle for entertaining influential guests.

Today is in the care of English heritage, and it’s open to the public.

It will entertain you and your family with its lavish rooms of the little Castle, ruined terrace range and views for the wall walk.

The Castle is about 3 hours drive from London and 1,5 hours from Birmingham. By public transport, you can get a train to Chesterfield and then bus A1 to the Castle.

Address : Castle St, Bolsover, Chesterfield S44 6PR

Saturday – Sunday 10am – 4pm

13.Rochester Castle, the castle of great English Sieges. 

Construction of the Rochester started in 1087, and it was strategically important as it helped to protect the east coast of England from invasion.

Historians call Rochester the “castle of destruction and rebuilding” as it went through the most bloody sieges in English history.

One of them was the epic siege in 1215 when King John crushed the southern wall down using the fat of 40 pigs to fire a mine, and after two months of battle the rebels finally gave up.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, owners carried out restoration works, and today it is under the protection of English Heritage.

Rochester Castle is a fantastic preserved piece of the Norman military architecture.

It will please any history lover with its history and beautiful gardens, The majestic Rochester Cathedral in the vicinity and the old town with bars and restaurants so obviously everyone loves it.

Rochester is located just one hour drive from London on M2 and only at 5 miles from junction 2.

Address : Castle Hill, Rochester ME1 1SW

14 Durham Castle, a home for students.

Durham Castle is a Norman castle in the city of Durham, England, which has been occupied since 1837 by University College, Durham after its previous role as the residence of the Bishops of Durham.

Built in 1072 soon after William the Conqueror arrived in the north there are still debates whether or not Durham castle has initially been a stone or wooden structure.

The Castle stands on the top of a hill overlooking the river Wear and the Durham cathedral.

As the Castle now is used as a home for students, visiting the Castle is only possible through guided tours.

By booking a guided tour, you’ll get to see two chapels, the black staircase, the long gallery Norman doorway arch in the courtyard.

The guides are highly rated by visitors as knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

Address : Durham DH1 3RW

15.Herstmonceux Castle, English fairytale castle.

Yes, this Castle is located in England! as you would think it’s a French castle judging by the name.

Herstmonceux is a brick-built castle dating from the 15th century in East Sussex, and one of the oldest buildings in the country built from such material.

Herstmonceux Castle has seven gardens listed as Grade ll in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.

Moreover, the Castle also operates as an International Study Centre for Queen’s University in Canada, where students are coming every year to study in such a chill place.

It’s well worth seeing with the whole family, a brilliant stopover on your trip to the south coast.

England’s fairytale castle as many visitors describes it surrounded by fantastic woodlands.

Herstmonceux is child and dog friendly, has a coffee shop, information Center, and a shop. 

Address : Hailsham BN27 1RN

16.Lindisfarne Castle, a fortress on the Holy Island.

Lindisfarne is a 16th-century castle used as a border garrison with Scotland, an area which was fought not only by English and Scots but also by Vikings.

The Castle sits on the highest point of the island, on a whinstone hill called Beblowe.

Building the Castle started in 1550 when the local Priory went out of use and the stones from its masons were used as a building material for Lindisfarne Castle.

After the death of Queen Elizabeth the Castle lost its strategic importance, skipping a few centuries by the end of the 19th century it fell into disrepair.

The Castle is well worth a visit even though the rooms are empty of furniture and art at the moment.

All interior belongings have been taken away during the major restoration 2016-2018 and have not yet been returned.

Lindisfarne Castle, it’s unique and has its spectacular feeling and look when you explore it from the outside and also enjoy the view of the harbour, village and Cheviot Hills from the Upper Battery.

The Castle is open mid-February to the end of October or the first week of November (exact dates vary, but the Castle is closed for winter). Opening times vary by day, depending on tide times you can check on  their website.

You can quickly drive to the Castle but allow yourself plenty of time to fit between the tides; otherwise, the tide will force you to stay on the island overnight.

If you plan to stay overnight on and enjoy the dinner while everyone rushes to leave the island, there are some great guest houses to choose from.

Address : Holy Island, Berwick-upon-Tweed TD15 2SH

17.Lincoln Castle, a great medieval walk.

Lincoln Castle is another crucial castle built by William the Conqueror on top of a pre-existing Roman court.

Built in the 11 century Lincoln is different from other castles which William the Conqueror constructed at the time.

The Castle has two mottes (main building in the Medieval Castle) there are only two such castles in England, the other one is in Lewes, East Sussex.

Things to do and see at the Lincoln Castle 

Castle Grounds

Lincoln Castle’s grounds are open even during England’s lockdown and are a perfect area for the rest, picnic and explore the Castle’s history.

Medieval Wall Walk 

We encourage you to take advantage of the unique experience of walking on the Lincoln castle curtain wall.

It costs 10£ and is accessible by a spiral staircase or lifts and where visitors can walk the whole circumference enjoying the stunning view of the city and Lincoln Cathedral.

Georgian and Victorian Prisons

You can also explore the prison built in 1788 the only original of its kind left in the world.

DAVID PJ ROSS MAGNA CARTA VAULT

The Castle is home to Lincoln’s Magna Carta 1215 and Charter of Forest 1217.

Lincoln Castle is the only place where you can see these two documents together which shaped the society that we know today.

Address : Castle Hill, Lincoln LN1 3AA

Opening Hours:  10am – 4pm

18.Warkworth Castle, a home of Percy family.

Now we are moving back to Northumberland where mighty Warkworth Castle’s waiting for its visitors on a loop of the River Coquet, less than a mile from England’s northeast coast.

The actual date of Warkworth’s foundation is uncertain. However, It was first documented in a charter of 1157–1164 when Henry ll granted it to Roger Fitz Richard.

Warkworth has been a home for many Noble families including the Percy family, whose lion budges can be seen on many parts of the stronghold.

English Heritage is looking after the site since 1984, which is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

What tourists love about Warkworth is that the staff is friendly at the entrance and the shop, the audio guide is free and informative.

The Warkworth village itself is beautiful, with late medieval cave Hermitage and chapel of a solitary holy man half a mile away.

Address : Castle Terrace, Warkworth, Morpeth NE65 0UJ

Opening Hours:  10:00 – 16:00

19.Carisbrooke Castle, Medieval Fortress on Isle of Wight.

Strategically located in the middle of Isle of Wight, village Carisbrook, (near Newport), Carisbrooke Castle is a Motte and Bailey castle also.

It’s believed that the history of Carisbrooke dates back to the Roman invasion, where they might have built fortifications, but historians never proved.

Carisbrook is an Anglo-Saxon stronghold in the 8th century with a curtain wall built by the year 1000 as a defence against Vikings raids.

Carisbrooke Castle hosted Charles l as a prisoner for 14 months before his execution, and princess Elizabeth died here.

Now the Castle is under the care of English Heritage and is open to anyone visiting the island.

Shame to miss Carisbrooke Castles if you visit the island as it’s very engaging for both adults and children.

You can explore the history, walking around the walls, views the surroundings and have a nice picnic area.

Children will love the Castle’s activities, enjoy watching the donkeys operating the wheel, sword fitting and museum can keep them captivated for hours.

The Isle of Wight is easily accessible by ferry from Portsmouth, Southampton and Lymington to which trains are heading from London regularly.

Address : Castle Hill, Newport PO30 1XY

Opening Hours:  10:00am- 4:00pm

20.St Michael’s Mount, the Cornwall’s top tourist attraction.

At first glance, St Michael’s Mount looks like a smaller copy of the Mont Saint-Michel in France, which is just about 500km away across the English Channel.

Usually, St Michael is why many people are heading to Cornwall, one of the prettiest travel destinations in the UK among Lake District and Snowdonia in Wales.

Some records are saying there might have been a monastery from the 8th to early 11th centuries on the site.

Ancestors founded the monastic buildings, and the Castle during the 12th century, since then St’ Michael’s Mount went through an endless list of rulers and challenging events. 

Today both National Trust and the St Aubyn family are managing the Mount together bringing a unique experience for anyone willing to visit the island.

The Mount has a designated car park at your disposal in the town Marazion from where you take the causeway when the tide is out. 

We recommend getting there a little earlier when the causeway is not accessible to get some stunning shots before many tourists arrive.

Booking the tickets in advance and checking the weather is essential as can be a quite a windy place sometimes.

The Mount is closed during the winter.

21.Lancaster Castle, discover England’s dark history

Another English medieval castle located in Lancaster with unclear early history is Lancaster Castle.

Some chronicles say that Lancaster originates in the 11th century, built on the site of a Roman fort overlooking a crossing of the River Lune.

Lancaster Castle is the oldest standing building in the region, and the first owner used it as a prison in 1196.

Fully functional HM prison until 2011 and in the next year The Duchy of Lancaster (Her Majesty the Queen is the Duke of Lancaster) regained the ownership of the stronghold, and major restoration works started.

We recommend Lancaster Castle to any history enthusiast who wants to discover this magnificent medieval building and its importance in English history.

An excellent family castle where you’ll enjoy an entertaining and informative guided tour, a well-presented courtyard, Priory and a Roman bathhouse.

Address : Castle Grove, Lancaster LA1 1YJ

Lancaster Castle is open seven days a week.               

Opening Hours:  9:30 – 5:00 pm

22.Belvoir Castle, “The Crown” series filming location.

The last on our list but not an unpopular one, Belvoir Castle is frequently appearing on TV in recent years.

Belvoir is a historic castle and a stately home 10km west of the town of Grantham, Leicestershire.

Built immediately after the Norman Conquest of 1066 and since the following owners rebuilt the Castle at least three times.

Today the  Manners Family  owns a corner of the Castle, and the rest of it is open to the public and filmmakers who are usual guests here.

Belvoir Castle played a significant role in films like;

Little Lord Fauntleroy  1980,  The Da Vinci Code  

Young Sherlock Holmes ,  The Young Victoria  2007 and recent Netflix worldwide blockbuster “ The Crown” .

If you are on a trip to East Midlands, Belvoir Castle is well worth a visit with the whole family.

It offers everything you would expect from a castle plus its unique architecture is well maintained throughout.

Beaver Castle’s interior it’s easy to explore, has gorgeous gardens and great food in the cafe.

Many people don’t know that can spend Christmas at Belvoir Castle

Believe me or not, you can also spend  Christmas at Belvoir castle , what an incredible experience it could be.

Address : Grantham NG32 1PE

Opening Hours:  10:00am- 4:00pm (Monday-Sunday)

Summary 

Thanks for stopping by and we hope the bucket list above was helpful to you!

 We always add new guides and information about castles all over the world, and you can explore more interesting facts and history in our  blog section  any time you want to sit down with a cup of coffee.

Castles and historic properties

Peacocks strut across manicured lawns, children shriek with delight as they try to find their way out of fiendishly difficult mazes, and well-kept gardens dazzle year-round at England’s many historic houses and well-preserved castles. Once inside, enthusiastic curators bring history to life with their expert knowledge and often funny insights into the lives, loves, and artefacts of generations of inhabitants. Castle breaks give you more chances of bumping into the present owners of an English castle, many of whom still live in wings of the properties. Just don’t forget to retrieve your children from that maze before you head home.

196 Experience Results

View results as:

• Derbyshire (7) Apply Derbyshire filter
• Herefordshire (1) Apply Herefordshire filter
• Leicestershire (4) Apply Leicestershire filter
• Lincoln (2) Apply Lincoln filter
• Northamptonshire (2) Apply Northamptonshire filter
• Nottingham (5) Apply Nottingham filter
• Peak District (5) Apply Peak District filter
• Shropshire (5) Apply Shropshire filter
• Stratford upon Avon (2) Apply Stratford upon Avon filter
• Warwick (5) Apply Warwick filter
• Birmingham (2) Apply Birmingham filter
• Worcestershire (2) Apply Worcestershire filter
• Essex (5) Apply Essex filter
• Norfolk (3) Apply Norfolk filter
• Suffolk (2) Apply Suffolk filter
• Durham (5) Apply Durham filter
• East Riding of Yorkshire (2) Apply East Riding of Yorkshire filter
• North York Moors (3) Apply North York Moors filter
• Scarborough (1) Apply Scarborough filter
• Yorkshire Dales and Harrogate (3) Apply Yorkshire Dales and Harrogate filter
• Northumberland (12) Apply Northumberland filter
• South Yorkshire (3) Apply South Yorkshire filter
• NewcastleGateshead (4) Apply NewcastleGateshead filter
• West Yorkshire (5) Apply West Yorkshire filter
• Yorkshire (21) Apply Yorkshire filter
• Cheshire (7) Apply Cheshire filter
• Lake District (4) Apply Lake District filter
• Blackpool (1) Apply Blackpool filter
• Manchester (1) Apply Manchester filter
• Liverpool (1) Apply Liverpool filter
• Bedfordshire (1) Apply Bedfordshire filter
• Berkshire (1) Apply Berkshire filter
• Buckinghamshire (5) Apply Buckinghamshire filter
• Brighton (1) Apply Brighton filter
• Portsmouth (2) Apply Portsmouth filter
• Hertfordshire (4) Apply Hertfordshire filter
• Isle of Wight (3) Apply Isle of Wight filter
• Kent (5) Apply Kent filter
• London (6) Apply London filter
• Oxford (3) Apply Oxford filter
• Surrey (1) Apply Surrey filter
• West Sussex (4) Apply West Sussex filter
• Cornwall (5) Apply Cornwall filter
• Cotswolds (4) Apply Cotswolds filter
• Exeter (2) Apply Exeter filter
• Dorset (7) Apply Dorset filter
• Gloucestershire (6) Apply Gloucestershire filter
• Bath (3) Apply Bath filter
• Wiltshire (6) Apply Wiltshire filter
• Boating (1) Apply Boating filter
• Countryside pursuits (1) Apply Countryside pursuits filter
• Golf (1) Apply Golf filter
• Tours and trails (4) Apply Tours and trails filter
• Walking and hiking (1) Apply Walking and hiking filter
• Autumn Break Ideas (4) Apply Autumn Break Ideas filter
• Free (1) Apply Free filter
• Low cost (6) Apply Low cost filter
• Attractions and landmarks (1) Apply Attractions and landmarks filter
• Neighbourhoods (1) Apply Neighbourhoods filter
• Beaches (3) Apply Beaches filter
• Coastal landmarks and Islands (5) Apply Coastal landmarks and Islands filter
• Coastal towns (2) Apply Coastal towns filter
• Seaside resorts (1) Apply Seaside resorts filter
• Areas of outstanding natural beauty (3) Apply Areas of outstanding natural beauty filter
• Gardens and Parks (57) Apply Gardens and Parks filter
• National Parks (6) Apply National Parks filter
• Wildlife and Nature Reserves (2) Apply Wildlife and Nature Reserves filter
• Architectural wonders (3) Apply Architectural wonders filter
• Arts and cultural events (2) Apply Arts and cultural events filter
• Hidden gems (3) Apply Hidden gems filter
• Literature, film and TV (26) Apply Literature, film and TV filter
• Museums galleries and libraries (13) Apply Museums galleries and libraries filter
• Performing arts (1) Apply Performing arts filter
• Days Out in England (4) Apply Days Out in England filter
• August events (1) Apply August events filter
• Local events (1) Apply Local events filter
• Attractions (5) Apply Attractions filter
• Dog friendly (1) Apply Dog friendly filter
• Indoor Activities (3) Apply Indoor Activities filter
• Outdoor Activities (3) Apply Outdoor Activities filter
• Playtime (1) Apply Playtime filter
• Toddler Friendly Holidays (2) Apply Toddler Friendly Holidays filter
• Zoos wildlife and safari parks (2) Apply Zoos wildlife and safari parks filter
• Afternoon tea (2) Apply Afternoon tea filter
• Eating out (1) Apply Eating out filter
• Abbeys cathedrals and sacred places (4) Apply Abbeys cathedrals and sacred places filter
• Archaeological sites (2) Apply Archaeological sites filter
• (-) Remove Castles and Historic Properties filter Castles and Historic Properties
• Historic sites and icons (6) Apply Historic sites and icons filter
• Industrial Maritime And Transport (2) Apply Industrial Maritime And Transport filter
• Military history (2) Apply Military history filter
• Myths Legends and Tales (8) Apply Myths Legends and Tales filter
• Royal (7) Apply Royal filter
• World heritage sites (3) Apply World heritage sites filter
• Luxury and indulgence (3) Apply Luxury and indulgence filter
• Spa Breaks (2) Apply Spa Breaks filter
• Picturesque places (3) Apply Picturesque places filter
• Rural and Coastal Escapes (2) Apply Rural and Coastal Escapes filter
• Unique Experiences (3) Apply Unique Experiences filter
• Autumn (43) Apply Autumn filter
• Spring (49) Apply Spring filter
• Summer (77) Apply Summer filter
• Winter (9) Apply Winter filter

Land Rover driving and falconry fun at Peckforton Castle

Always wanted to test drive the latest Land Rover? Spend the day at Peckforton Castle and get ready for the drive of your life.

Location: Tarporley, Cheshire

Explore the tranquil gardens at Tatton Park

Spread across the grounds of a historic estate in Cheshire, Tatton Park have been carefully expanded and cultivated since Edwardian times.

Location: Knutsford, Cheshire

Enjoy a picnic, zoo & make pottery at Walton Hall & Gardens

Spend the day enjoying the gardens, testing your golf skills and entertaining the kids at Walton Hall and Gardens.

Location: Warrington, Cheshire

Discover King Richard II's hidden fortune at Beeston Castle

A magical site with stunning views, long walks through rich woodland and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

Location: Beeston, Cheshire

Step into the Industrial Revolution at Quarry Bank

This fascinating industrial heritage site transports visitors back to 18th century Northern England and the life of a thriving cotton mill community.

Location: Styal, Cheshire

Uncover Cliveden's unique past

Discover a country house in Berkshire with a chequered past.

Location: Maidenhead, Berkshire

Explore captivating Alnwick Castle

Walk through history and admire world-class art at this fascinating castle, then stroll through spectacular floral displays at The Alnwick Garden.

Location: Alnwick, Northumberland

Sample over 800 years of Surrey’s history

Come and discover Surrey’s history, including the open meadows of from the internationally-know Runnymede and Hampton Court Palace.

Location: London, Greater London

Uncover a political scandal at Cliveden House

Pay a visit to the stately home in Buckinghamshire where John Profumo met Christine Keeler.

Location: Taplow, Buckinghamshire

An Italianate country house in the Chilterns

West Wycombe Park is 45 acres of landscaped park in the Chilterns countryside and home to the Dashwood family for over 300 years.

Location: West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

Visit the luxurious home of Louis XVIII

Discover this grand stately home in the heart of England with Rococo ceilings, a relaxing spa, set in 90 acres of landscaped parkland.

Location: Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

Picture Mr Darcy coming out of the lake

The magnificent house, gardens and deer park at Lyme Park was the filming location for the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice.

Location: Lyme Handley, Cheshire

Experience 19th Century living at Waddesdon Manor

Built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, this impressive 19th century estate combines one man’s grand vision of architecture, art and gardens.

Location: Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire

Visit Derby's three National Trust treasures

Derby has a trio of National Trust treasures all within a 10 mile radius, so use the city as your base to explore Calke, Sudbury and Kedleston.

Location: Derby, Derbyshire

Visit England's oldest Smock Windmill at Lacey Green

Restored to working order by The Chiltern Society, Lacey Green Windmill is England's oldest smock mill with wooden machinery dating from around 1650.

Location: Lacey Green, Buckinghamshire

Romance at Peckforton Castle and Combermere Abbey

Combermere Abbey and Peckforton Castle make for a romantic trip you’ll never forget.

Location: Nantwich, Cheshire

Discover the walled gardens at medieval Raby Castle

Visit one of England’s finest medieval castles, and explore the medieval walled gardens and 200 acre deer park.

Location: Durham Dales, Durham

Fall in love with your loved one again…but don’t lose your head

Sneak away to Hever Castle, where one of history’s greatest love affairs blossomed when Henry VIII courted the young Anne Boleyn.

Location: Hever, Kent

Coast to countryside views from Arundel Castle

Explore Arundel’s rich history and heritage with re-enactments and family fun-days at Arundel Castle.

Location: Arundel, West Sussex

Spend the night in Peverell's Tower

Pack your suitcase for a hair-raising and luxurious stay in Dover Castle’s former prison tower.

Location: Dover, Kent

Discover something for all ages to enjoy at Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle in Kent – once described by Lord Conway as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’ – is the perfect place for families to escape to.

Location: Lenham, Kent

• See more results

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

12 Most Beautiful Castles in the UK

Must-see castles in the united kingdom.

The United Kingdom has proud Royal traditions that are known around the world, so it’s only fitting that some of the most beautiful and grand castles in the world are found in England, Scotland and Wales. From the charming idyllic countryside of England to the rolling hills and quaint towns in Wales, all the way up to the stunning and enchanted lands of Scotland, finding a castle to explore in the UK is an easy task.

With a plethora of castles to choose from, you might find it hard to narrow down your search. Each castle has its own unique and rich history, making each of the castles listed below as fascinating as the next. Have your pick and plan your next magical visit to one of these beautiful castles.

Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England

The iconic royal residence.

Windsor Castle is the longest-occupied palace in Europe. It’s home of the British royal family and the famous setting of many royal weddings. With the alliance of Prince Harry and American Meghan Markle, American coverage of the event thrusted the castle even more into the spotlight. It’s easy to see why the couple chose this castle, with its gorgeous off-grey exterior built in a Georgian and Victorian design with modern elements - it’s a mixture of tradition and modernity. The view leading up to the castle on the Long Walk is truly a sight to behold – a quintessential fairy-tale setting worthy of a few snaps. The castle can get extremely busy, so make sure to book ahead and get there early.

Location: Windsor Castle, Windsor SL4 1NJ, UK

Open: Hours vary by season

Phone: +44 (0)303 123 7324

Dunrobin Castle in Sutherland, Scotland

Found in the magical highland area.

Dunrobin Castle dates back to the 1300s and is home to the Earl of Sutherland and the Clan Sutherland. Overlooking Dornoch Firth, views from the castle are remarkable as sunlight glimmers off the waters of the estuary. The architecture of the castle and its gardens are highly influenced by the French; the gardens are immaculately manicured and draws many similarities to the Gardens of Versailles with its quaint fountains circled by hedges. The castle is adorned with turret roofs, reminding one of the typical castles illustrating your favourite fairytales. A wander around the gardens is particularly picturesque, with the glittering firth in view and the castle positioned at higher ground. There are even trained falcons and owls - it is Scotland after all.

Location: Dunrobin Castle, Golspie KW10 6SF, UK

Open: April–May and October: daily from 10.30 am to 4.30 pm. June–September: daily from 10 am to 5.pm

Phone: +44 1408 633177

10 Best Family Things to Do in Manchester

10 Best Things to Do in Newquay

Madame Tussauds in London

Caernarfon castle in gwynedd, wales, the mightiest of king edward i’s ‘iron ring’ castles.

Caernarfon Castle, anglicised as Caernarvon, is a medieval fortress found in North-west Wales and is often noted as one of the most architecturally impressive castles in the country. Decorated with polygonal towers, the castle gives off an air of authority with its location linking the poorer land of North Wales to the ‘gardens of Wales’, Anglesey. Created by King Edward I as symbol of English dominance, the castle is certainly a brute of a fortress, with its massive structure and the intimidating ten-sided Eagle Tower, visible from the bay. Its phenomenal expanse and scale is mirrored in the waters of River Seiont and is especially beautiful during sunset.

Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)128 667 7617

Conwy Castle in Conwy, Wales

A medieval castle fit for game of thrones.

Conwy Castle is colossal in every respect – its huge, imposing towers packed one after the other, create such a menacing image that you feel somewhat frightened when you approach. Built for King Edward I, the castle is one of the finest examples of medieval fortification in the UK. Its high towers enhance the castle’s grandeur and exceptional architecture. The interior of the castle features an outer ward containing a great hall, chambers and kitchen and the inner ward contains a royal chapel and more private chambers. Visitors are allowed to walk all along the walls and climb up all the towers. The view from the highest tower offers 360-degree views looking out across the sea and mountains.

Location: Conwy Castle, Rose Hill Street, Conwy LL32 8AY, UK

Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 6 pm

Phone: +44 (0)149 259 2358

Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland

World-famous icon of scotland.

Edinburgh Castle sits atop Castle Rock and dominates the skyline of the city. This historic fortress does require quite of a steep walk to visit, but is definitely worth the sweat with its magnificent views of the old and new towns of the city. Complete with a military museum, the castle holds an importance place in Scottish history as a military stronghold and a royal residence. The castle’s location meant it was easily defended and allowed the city to grow into what it is today. Guided tours are provided by castle stewards as well as audio guides in 8 different languages.

Location: Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK

Open: Summer: daily from 9.30 am to 6 pm. Winter: daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)131 225 9846

Arundel Castle in West Sussex, England

Originally built by one of william the conquerer’s right-hand men.

Over the centuries, Arundel Castle has been remodelled and re-fashioned in an ever-more grand manner. Home to the Dukes of Norfolk and Earls of Arundel, the castle and its gardens are stunningly landscaped within 40 acres of sprawling, green grounds. The walled gardens can take hours to explore with its many colourful displays of fragrant flowers making it a particularly pretty scenery. The Norman Motte allows visitors breath-taking views across River Arun, the South Downs and West Sussex. The castle also holds an extensive art collection of rare paintings by renowned artists including Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Canaletto. Film and TV buffs may recognise parts of the castle from Doctor Who and The Young Victoria. Check the website for the specific opening dates and times, as the castle closes in the winter months.

Location: Arundel Castle, Arundel BN18 9AB, UK

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closes in some winter months)

Phone: +44 (0)190 388 2173

Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, England

A castle floating on water.

Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century moated castle that will captivate you from the moment you lay eyes on it. The structure offers visitors a peep into the medieval splendour of its time. The site features a quaint bridge across the moat that leads to the entrance, which is marked by looming towers. The shape of the castle is reflected in the moat’s waters and makes for a magnificent view of the castle at any time of the day. 

On sunny days, bring a picnic to enjoy on the grass overlooking the castle and revel in the majestic atmosphere of the castle (picnics are only allowed in certain areas and picnic benches are available outside the tea-room and next to Castle View Café). Walk along the moat and you may see carp come to the surface looking for food. An entry fee applies for castle visits.

Location: Bodiam Castle, Bodiam, Robertsbridge TN32 5UA, UK

Open: Monday – Friday from 11 am to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)158 083 0196

Kilchurn Castle in Dalmally, Scotland

A scenic castle on the shores of loch awe.

Kilchurn Castle is possibly one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. The structure’s ruined appearance adds to the dramatic, rocky scenery which it is set in. Built in the mid-1400s by Sir Colin Campbell, the castle comprised a 5-storey tower house located at one corner of an irregular-shaped courtyard. Tower house still stands overshadowing the rest of the mostly ruined structure. A visit to the castle is perhaps most effective if you’re looking to take in the magical atmosphere of the Scottish countryside. Kilchurn Castle is set among enchantingly beautiful mountains, which are capped with powdery snow in the winter and coated with clouds of mist in the early autumn mornings. Without a doubt, a picture-postcard setting.

Location: Kilchurn Castle, Loch Awe, Dalmally PA33 1AF, UK

Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm (closed in winter)

Phone: +44 131 668 8999

Penrhyn Castle in Llandygai, Wales

A vision in red.

Penrhyn Castle is a 19th-century neo-Norman castle which sits between Snowdonia and the Menai Strait. Originally a medieval fortified manor, the castle is now packed with fascinating items, which are on display, such as a 1-ton slate bed made for Queen Victoria, elaborate carvings, mock-Norman furniture, plasterwork and an excellent collection of paintings. In summer, the outside of the castle is covered in a blanket of green as vines grow upwards and across the exterior of the castle. In autumn, watch the castle light up in a flurry of bold red. The interior is intricate in every respect with an ornate staircase and stained-glass windows. Wear comfortable shoes as there are plenty of stairs within the castle.

Open: Daily from 12 pm to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)124 835 3084

Warwick Castle in Warwickshire, England

Experience 1,000 years of british history.

Warwick Castle, as it is today, was developed from an original structure built by William the Conqueror in 1068. Found on the banks of River Avon, the castle survived an attack in 1264, besiegement in 1642 and a fire in 1871 – and still remains one of the most well-preserved examples of medieval castles in the UK. Owned and resided in by the Earl of Warwick, the family enjoyed a lavish lifestyle which is evident through the sophisticated 17th Century Great Hall and the State Rooms, which holds the castle’s most prized possessions. 

A tour of the castle takes you through the well-manicured gardens, to the medieval vaults and the private residence of the Earl. Climb to the top of the tower and take in glorious views of Warwickshire. Check the website for special events such as jousting tournaments.

Location: Warwick Castle, Warwick CV34 4QU, UK

Open: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm

Phone: +44 (0)871 265 2000

Glamis Castle in Angus, Scotland

The legendary setting for shakespeare’s ‘macbeth’.

Glamis Castle is an overwhelming arrangement of towers upon towers surrounded by the deep green of the Scottish countryside. You’ll find yourself in a sublime setting as you gaze upon the ostentatious exterior of the castle. The structure is fit for a prince and you can’t help but imagine one gallivanting on a horse across the great, green expanse encircling the castle. The castle’s turrets and towers can be seen afar from the Queen Mother Gates and this sense of majesty will only culminate throughout your visit. There are a number of walks around the castle that see different styles of gardens.

Location: Glamis Castle, Angus DD8 1RJ, UK

Open: Daily from 10 am to 5.30 pm

Phone: +44 (0)130 784 0393

Stirling Castle in Stirling, Scotland

A shining example of renaissance architecture.

Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both architecturally and historically. Once upon a time, nobles, foreign ambassadors and knights would flock here to revel in its resplendent gardens and grand halls. As a favoured residence to the Stewart kings and queens, grand celebrations were held at the castle, which are now brought to life by the costumed staff who immerse you in 16th-century life. Its  history is palpable as soon as you ascend into the castle – once home to Mary, Queen of Scots. Look out from its high stone walls to where countless great medieval armies fought to decide the nation’s fate.

Location: Stirling Castle, Castle Esplanade, Stirling FK8 1EJ, UK

Open: April–September: daily from 9.30 am to 6 pm. October–March: daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)178 645 0000

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

Start planning your trip

Related stories.

Manchester Airport

5 Best Family Things to Do in Oxford

02 Institute in Birmingham

13 Best Things to Do on the English Riviera

Birmingham Gay Village

Keep exploring.

• United Kingdom
• Bedfordshire
• Bishop's Stortford
• Borehamwood
• Bournemouth
• Buckinghamshire
• Bury St Edmunds
• Cambridgeshire
• Channel Islands
• Cirencester
• East Midlands
• East Sussex
• English Riviera
• Eryri National Park
• Gloucestershire
• Great Yarmouth
• Herefordshire
• Hertfordshire
• Isle of Man
• Isle of Skye
• Isle of Wight
• Lake District National Park
• Lincolnshire
• Milton Keynes
• New Forest National Park
• Newcastle-upon-Tyne
• North Wales
• North West England
• Northampton
• Northumberland
• Nottinghamshire
• Oxfordshire
• Peak District National Park
• Peterborough
• Royal Tunbridge Wells
• Scarborough
• Scottish Borders
• Scottish Islands
• South Coast
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Staffordshire
• Stoke-on-Trent
• West Midlands
• West Sussex
• Northern Ireland
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Mexico and central america, middle east, north america, south america, top destinations.

• Hotels in London
• Hotels in Edinburgh
• Hotels in Amsterdam
• Hotels in New York
• Hotels in Paris
• Hotels in Dublin
• Hotels in Bournemouth
• Hotels in Blackpool
• Hotels in Las Vegas
• Hotels in Birmingham
• Hotels in Brighton
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Barcelona
• Hotels in Rome
• Hotels in Chester
• Hotels in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
• Hotels in Venice
• Hotels in Kraków
• Hotels in San Francisco
• Hotels in Madrid
• Hotels in Prague
• Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
• Hotels in Lisbon
• Hotels in Istanbul

Top countries & regions

• Hotels in United Kingdom
• Hotels in Malta
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Spain
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Barbados
• Hotels in England
• Hotels in Tenerife
• Hotels in Majorca Island
• Hotels in Disneyland® Paris
• Hotels in Scotland
• Hotels in Cotswolds (area)

Support & FAQs

Website feedback.

• Review a property

For suppliers, affiliates and the media

• Affiliate with us
• Expedia Partner Solutions
• Promote with us
• Travel agents

User terms & Privacy

• Terms & Conditions (excluding Vrbo bookings)
• Vrbo Terms & Conditions
• Legal Information

Modern Slavery Act statement

List your property.

• Travel Guides
• Vacation Rentals

* Some hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in. Details on site.

© 2024 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved.

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hotels.com, LP in the United States and/ or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

* Learn more about Hotels.com® Rewards

The 10 Best Castles to Visit in the UK

I still remember the first time I saw the Tower of London. I was awed by the site of a medieval building that still towered over much of modern London , and as a child, I quickly came to love the myths, history, and legends embedded in the UK’s best castles. 

From then on, I was hooked, and ever since, I’ve taken every opportunity to explore my home country’s heritage through its castles. In Edinburgh , the battlements of Edinburgh Castle still dominate the Scottish capital, while in Northern Ireland and Wales , imposing fortresses tell stories of blood conquests and rebellions. 

With so many famous castles in the UK, you might not know where to begin. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the absolute best castles to visit for you. Stick to these fun and fascinating recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an incredible time exploring the UK’s history!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. The Tower of London

Looming large over the banks of the River Thames, the Tower of London is one of the most iconic castles to visit in the UK. Founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Norman king ordered the construction of a mighty fortress to lord over his newly conquered kingdom. 

The original White Tower still stands today, but successive monarchs have added layer upon layer of ramparts and fortifications through the centuries, resulting in an impressive walled castle that still guards the royal family’s Crown Jewels to this day. 

The Tower of London is steeped in bloody and brutal history. Take a guided “Yeoman Warder Tour” with the famous Beefeaters who guard the gates, learn about the Ravens, see the armory, and hear the harrowing tale of the Princes in the Tower. 

2. Warwick Castle

One of the most instantly recognizable UK castles, Warwick Castle is a postcard of medieval England. Overlooking the historic town of Warwick on the banks of the River Avon, it was originally founded as a wooden motte and bailey castle in 1068. 

The vast bastions, ramparts, and stone towers that you see today were added during the ferocious Barons’ Rebellions of the 12th and 13th centuries, while many more defensives were upgraded when England was under constant threat during the later Hundred Years’ War with France. 

In the 17th century, large parts of the walls and facade were turned into a lavish country home for the Earls of Warwick, creating a uniquely contrasting picture of war and peace through the ages. 

Warwick Castle is now one of the best-preserved medieval sites in England, but in more recent times, the Earl of Warwick sold their ancestral seat of power to a theme park company. They’ve added less-than-accurate jousting tournaments, medieval reenactments, and even a medieval glamping site, but it’s all part of the fun for kids and families!

3. Caernarfon Castle

There are more castles in Wales than anywhere else in Europe, and that’s thanks to the endless attempts by medieval English kings to conquer their neighbors. Caernarfon Castle , with medieval walls designed to emulate the grand fortifications of Constantinople, is by far the most impressive, and you’ll find it overlooking the Menai Strait in northwest Wales. 

Caernarfon Castle was one of the most expensive and technologically advanced castles of its day because King Edward I intended it to be a big statement to the rebellious Welsh princes who refused to submit to English rule. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Caernarfon Castle still holds huge significance today, and it’s here where the Prince of Wales (the next in line to the British throne) is always invested in a grand ceremony. 

4. Edinburgh Castle

When you’re in Scotland, you’ll find one of the best castles in the UK in Edinburgh. The Scottish capital has long been dominated by Edinburgh Castle , which sits on a volcanic outcrop that towers above the city.

Take a stroll along the Royal Mile, and at the western end of this historic medieval thoroughfare, you’ll find the imposing gates to Edinburgh Castle. Castlehill has been fortified since the Iron Age. Even today, the castle is home to active units of the British military, and you can learn more at the National War Museum inside. 

Edinburgh Castle hosts the annual Royal Military Tattoo every August. It’s home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, and after touring the ramparts and towers, you can even enjoy an afternoon tea in the tea house.  

5. Bamburgh Castle

Thousands of years of British history are etched into the stone battlements of Bamburgh Castle , which has long guarded the Northumbrian coast. Celts, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Normans have all fought fierce battles to control this strategic fortification in northeastern England, and today, it’s one of the best castles to visit in the UK.

You’ll be struck by the isolation when you first visit Bamburgh Castle. Located atop volcanic rocks, from the windswept ramparts, you’ll have sweeping views across an undeveloped coastline and over the sea toward the Farne Islands. 

6. Dover Castle

Overlooking the English Channel, Dover Castle is one of the largest and most intact medieval castles in England. The port town of Dover has long been the gateway between England and France, and you can still see the crumbling remnants of a Roman Pharos, or lighthouse, within the castle grounds.

While Dover has been fortified for thousands of years, the medieval castle you see today was largely constructed by King Henry II in the 12th century. He built the Great Tower – a stone keep that was intended as much to be a statement of power to the French as it was a fortress. 

Dover Castle continued to evolve in later centuries, with gun batteries and forts added during the Napoleonic Wars and air raid shelters and command tunnels dug out during World War II. 

7. Tintagel Castle

The northern coast of Cornwall is a rocky and rugged place, and the mist-strewn cliffs overlooking the Bristol Channel hide as many legends as they do history. This is the mythical land of King Arthur, the great savior of the ancient Britons, and within the crumbling ruins of Tintagel Castle , it’s difficult to know where myths meet reality. 

Tintagel Castle is inextricably linked to the stories of King Arthur, with medieval writers presuming that this was where the mythical figure was conceived. King Arthur probably never existed, but Tintagel Castle was the seat of power of the last independent Cornish kings, and the strategic coastal location had been occupied for thousands of years.

Drawn by tales of Merlin, Arthur, Lancelot, and Guinevere in the 13th century, Richard, the 1st Earl of Cornwall, decided to build a modern castle on the ruins. The remains of this castle are what you see today, once you’ve crossed the windswept footbridge separating the eroding island-fortress from the mainland.

8. Leeds Castle

Not to be confused with the Yorkshire city of the same name, you’ll find Leeds Castle in southern England, where tales of royal intrigue await. One of the most picturesque castles in the UK, you’ll love how Leeds Castle was built on the islands of the River Len. 

Cross the natural moat by walking over the stone bridge, and inside, you’ll find a history dating back to the 9th century AD. Leeds Castle fell into royal hands in the 13th century, and King Edward I spent much time here when he wasn’t battling with the Welsh and the Scots. 

King Henry VIII would later present the castle to his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, and during the English Civil War, it would be used as a prison. In the 20th century, Leeds Castle became a hospital during World War II and was then used as a venue for peace talks between Egypt and Israel in the 1970s.

9. Carrickfergus Castle

Cross over the Irish Sea, and you’ll find that just as they did in England and Wales, the conquering Normans made a habit of constructing impressive castles in Northern Ireland, too. You’ll find one of the best castles in the UK on the shores of Belfast Lough, where Carrickfergus Castle has seen more than its fair share of sieges and battles in this turbulent part of the country. 

Dating back to 1177, Carrickfergus Castle controlled the gateway to Belfast for centuries, and the cast of characters that have played a role in the castle’s legend include the likes of Robert the Bruce and King John.

Take a day trip from Belfast , or call in while driving the Causeway Coastal Route, and you can discover how Carrickfergus Castle has shaped Northern Ireland’s history through the centuries.  

10. Dunvegan Castle

Beautifully remote and romantically placed on the shores of the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle is one of the most incredible castles in the UK and a must-visit when you’re exploring Scotland. Part of the sprawling MacLeod Estate (and the traditional seat of power of the MacLeod Clan), the castle is perched atop a craggy outcrop above Loch Dunvegan.

The oldest parts of Dunvegan Castle date back to at least the 13th century, but in the Victorian era, much of the crumbling masonry was replaced with a more romanticized style of Baronial architecture that was popular at the time. Even if you’re not into history, you’ll love the scenic beauty of this outstanding UK castle!

There you have it! The best castles in the UK. What are your favorite UK castles to visit? 

About the author:.

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

View all posts

Related Posts

The 14 Best Places to Visit in Europe in October

The 15 Best Christmas Markets in Germany

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Formentera, Spain

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

25 Most Beautiful Castles in England

Built to keep enemies out while protecting the safety and comfort of those within, England ‘s castles have long captured the imagination of travelers from around the world. Castles first appeared in Britain during the 11th century during the Norman Conquest and continued to be constructed well into the 18th century, although the later castles were built more for show than for fortification.

Today, there are hundreds of castles in England in various stages of restoration or states of decay. Many have become popular tourist destinations, offering visitors the chance to see how life in a real castle compares with storybook tales of towers, turrets and untold treasure.

25. Ludlow Castle

Built as an 11th century border stronghold, Ludlow Castle is a place to experience the historic lodging of former kings, queens, and nobility. It peels back the curtains and reveals life in the Medieval era and Tudor society for those in power.

The castle came to be two decades after the Norman Conquest. In the 15th century, it was the scene for the Wars of Roses before becoming property of the Crown. From then, the upper echelon of society resided and married here.

Today, the castle has a balance of ruins and preserved buildings, including accommodation and wedding space. With views over the beautiful Shropshire countryside, take pause on your adventures to admire the resounding scenery.

24. Lancaster Castle

Owned by His Majesty the King (King Charles III), Lancaster Castle boasts over 1,000 years of heritage. Tales of justice, felony, victory, and defeat ring throughout its hallowed walls.

The castle grounds date back to the Roman era. It was chosen thanks to its commanding position overlooking the River Lune and Lancaster town. After years defending it against the Scots and Picts, witch trials took place here. Dozens of them.

Over 200 souls lost their lives here. So, you can only imagine the haunting tales and spirits that reside here. Head to the Drop Room to find out more.

Aside from being a fortress, the castle also served as the Europe’s longest operation prison until it shuttered in 2011.

23. Herstmonceux Castle

In East Sussex, Herstmonceux Castle is surrounded by a moat, formal gardens and seemingly endless woodlands. Take one look and it’ll be clear why this estate was such a beloved retreat among Victorians and other nobility.

Built in 1441, it immediately became the largest private home at the time. With great preservation, it remains a gem to explore. Begin with a walk to the moat’s right side for amazing views of the facade reflecting on the water.

After entering through the gate, you can explore the seven formal gardens and the ancient avenue of chestnuts. Inside the castle, you’ll find rooms and chambers complete with period furniture.

22. Dunster Castle

A thousand years of history welcomes all who visit Dunster Castle. In Somerset, the ancient castle combines with its dramatic views and subtropical gardens to create a memorable experience.

On a quick-rising wooded hill, the ruins of the Norman-era castle showcase the effects of its turbulent past. But, beyond the crumbling tower and the head-turning medieval gatehouse, much remains intact.

This is due to the Luttrell family, who lived here for six centuries, transforming the castle into a luxurious country home. It helps to show the castle at its zenith, without taking away the history.

In addition, you’ll find gorgeous gardens complete with local and Mediterranean plants. A trail guides you through, eventually leading you down to the river and the still-operating windmill.

21. Tintagel Castle

On the clifftops of North Cornwall, the ruins of Tintagel Castle stand. Believed to be the birthplace of the iconic King Arthur, Tingtagel is shrouded in legend – aplace that has gone on to inspire endless authors, poets, and romantics.

An utterly dramatic landscape awaits all who visit, and it all begins with an unforgettable traverse of footbridge. One that runs across a 190ft gorge.

On the other side lies the legend of Camelot, the myths of Merlin, ancient catapults, and armory. From there you can scramble across the ruins and retrace the steps of historic figures on your way to the King Arthur statue. The more you climb, the more grand the coast views become.

20. Kenilworth Castle

The historic beauty and haunting ruins of Kenilworth Castle are merely the appetizer for those who visit. What’s left of one of England’s most formidable medieval fortresses helps tell the tale of royal scandals as much as famed sieges.

With the help of the castle docent, you’ll be able to explore the true nature of the royal romance between Robert Dudley and Elizabeth I. Including how he transformed this castle into an opulent palace as a way to impress his queen.

Later, after extensive renovations, you can enter Elizabeth I’s private rooms. Before completing your journey in the castle’s resplendent garden, home to a bustling aviary and marble fountain.

19. Warkworth Castle

A hilltop fortress and hermitage, the Warkworth Castle will have you ready to anoint yourself as king or queen. Set above the rolling River Coquet, the castle is a portal to the era of the Dukes of Northumberland and the world of the Percy family.

Enter Warkworth Castle to explore the chambers and state rooms that are spread across the majestic cross-shaped keep. As you do, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Harry Hotspur, the bane of Scottish raiders, who was immortalized by Shakespeare.

Interactive trails later take you through the castle grounds and the circuit of towering walls. Sculptures are set along the way the unveil the lives of other inhabitants from as far back as the 15th century.

18. Durham Castle

The centerpiece of the town’s World Heritage Site, the Durham Castle is one of the oldest, continuously occupied castles in England.

Dating back to the 11th century, the castle is far removed from its days as a Norman fortress. While the Prince Bishops of Durham have also moved on. Today, it welcomes the students of Durham’s University College. A unique educational experience if you ask me!

The presence of students and the university culture infused Durham Castle with a sense of living history. The atmosphere draws you in and makes it a fun place to explore.

As you do, you’ll come across some of the castle’s 250 pieces of art, a large number of which are oil paintings. To finish off, check out the incredible Arms and Armour collection.

17. Bolsover Castle

Many English castles were strategically placed to deal with battles. The others were the homes of kings, queens, and nobles. There are a few exceptions, however. Bolsover Castle is one of them.

A visit here is a journey back to the lavish aristocratic extravagance of the late Renaissance. Although it was built in the 11th century, the castle rose to prominence 400 years later when Sir Charles Cavendish came to town.

The horse-mad, playboy son inherited the grounds. Today, you can see the Little Castle luxurious state rooms, laden with rich murals and opulent luxury.

But that’s just the beginning. The entire estate is an allegorical journey through the best of Renaissance luxury and heavenly delights.

16. Tattershall Castle

On the flat fens of Lincolnshire, Tattershall Castle has weathered the storms, the decay and the conflicts to showcase much of its original medieval designs.

Built in the 1400s, the moated castle reached its prime during the Tudor period. The Civil War changed the fortunes of Tattershall, with only the Great Tower remaining. However, restoration efforts put much of the castle’s former pieces back together. You can still spot the Gothic fireplaces and cathedral-esque windows.

Once the home of the Treasurer of King Henry VI, a big part of exploring the castle and surrounding grounds are its archaeological finds. Your adventure back in time then leads to the gorgeous wildflower meadow that bodes for great photography.

15. Lindisfarne Castle

It’s a castle, but not a castle. It stands on an island that’s also not an island. Lindisfarne Castle is like few others.

Originally built in 1550, it spent the better part of three centuries as temporary garrisons. But today it’s more renowned for its contemporary history and not its ancient past.

This is because the castle was built and transformed into a holiday home for Edward Hudson. It remains open to explore. At low tide, you can walk to Holy Island across the causeway.

Once you’ve arrived, you can explore the surprising grandeur behind the 19th century kilns, wander the shoreline and summer gardens. Inside, check out the galleries and Upper Battery for exception views of the Northumberland coast.

14. Dover Castle

Standing upon the striking White Cliffs, Dover Castle is a veritable icon. Built in the years following infamous 1066, this enormous fortress has been at the forefront of royal affairs and momentous battles.

Thanks to Napoleon’s rise to power, Dover Castle underwent vital modifications mere decades after it was first built. These fortifications remain to this day and can be seen along the memorable Battlement Walk.

Soon the one of the world’s oldest lighthouses will come into view. A tower that once helped guide Romans across the English Channel. Speaking of towers, don’t forget to step into the Great Tower and take a journey back to the Middle Ages to discover the Medieval Court of Henry II.

13. Sudeley Castle

The beauty of a visit to Sudeley Castle is the architecture and history is matched by the surrounding natural aura. In the Cotswolds, you’ll have ten magnificent gardens waiting to be explored.

Each one is different from the last, with the garden’s paths allowing you to follow the footsteps of the castle’s famous inhabitants. At the forefront is Queen Katherine Pire, the last of King Henry VII’s wives. She’s buried onsite, the only such queen to rest on private grounds.

As you move beyond the gardens and into the castle itself, you’ll find rooms filled with exhibits. These feature fascinating discoveries from as far back as the Roman era.

The castle is also a great destination for kids, with an Adventure Playground, safaris, and fun events throughout the year.

12. Highclere Castle

Ever watched or heard of Downton Abbey? Well, the Highclere Castle is the show brought to life. Fans of the show will have a blast wandering the lush grounds, spotting the locations where pivotal scenes took place.

But there is more to Highclere Castle than being the set of a TV show. Records here can be traced back to the mid-8th century, a remarkable timeline.

Travelers can book tours of the castle, where you can wander the bonnie 13th century gardens that have been maintained for over 700 years. Later, you’ll enter the state rooms for a look into noble life. Afterwards, explore the Egyptian Exhibition within the former staff quarters which commemorates the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun.

11. Rochester Castle

In Kent, the Rochester Castle has been incredibly well-preserved. Strategically placed along the River Medway, along the Old London Road, the castle was first built in the 1100s.

In just its infancy, Rochester Castle would see plenty of action. In fact, the fortress walls and castles allowed it to be a chief stronghold in the rebellion against Bad King John. The only casualty? Losing an entire tower after a pig fat bomb exploded.

The keep would remain a viable military piece until the 1600s. Today, explorers can discover some of England’s finest Norman architecture and the tallest tower of its kind in Europe – all just steps away from the Cathedral which is an equally powerful symbol of medieval life.

10. Corfe Castle

The ruins of Corfe Castle rest on a hill near a quaint village of the same name in the southern county of Dorset. Built in the 11th and 12th century, the castle was designed to intimidate would-be attackers with a limestone keep that stood 20 meters (70 feet) tall. The castle was famously defended for three years during the English Civil War by Lady Bankes.

During the final attack, Lady Bankes rained hot coals down at Parliamentary soldiers from her personal chambers. Like many of the fortified castles in England, the inner keep of Corfe Castle was then slighted, or dismantled, by its captors so that it could not be used by Royalist forces. Arrow slits and murder holes are still visible in the castle ruins today.

9. Alnwick Castle

The seat of the Duke of Northumberland, Alnwick is the second largest inhabited castle in England after Windsor Castle, the Queen’s favorite weekend home. Built during the 11th century, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Percy family for the last 700 years.

Although the present Duke and Duchess still live in a section of the castle, the rest is open to the public seven months out of the year. Alnwick Castle has been revamped, renovated and refurbished many times over the last seven centuries.

The castle’s rooms serve as rich backdrop for one of the finest collections of paintings in England, including works by Titian, Reynolds and Gainsborough. The exterior of the castle has been featured in several films and served as exterior shots for the Hogwarts school in the Harry Potter movies.

8. Framlingham Castle

Located in the east of England in Suffolk, Framlingham castle is a perfect example of the classic “motte and bailey” fortifications of the 11th and 12th century. Bailey is the term for the protective outer wall of the castle; motte refers to the hill or raised earthwork upon which the castle is constructed. Today, the stockade and 13 towers attract visitors who come to walk along the top of the castle wall.

Framlingham played an important historical role during the Tudor Period when the Howard family owned the castle. Henry VIII seized the estate, Queen Mary returned it and Elizabeth I took it back again. After her death, the castle was once again returned to the Howards. The castle was donated to Pembroke College in 1636, and the inner buildings were tore down to build a poorhouse. Visitors can explore the castle’s history at the “From Powerhouse to Poorhouse” exhibition and can view the Howard family tombs at the nearby Saint Michael Church.

7. Leeds Castle

Large, grand, intact and surrounded by a wide moat, Leeds Castle is what many people imagine when they think of an English castle. Located in Kent in the southeast corner of England, the castle was constructed during the reign of Henry I and served as residence for royalty for much of its more than 900-year-long history.

Six queens called Leeds home, earning the castle the nickname “The Ladies Castle.” The castle’s last private owner was a woman as well. Olive Wilson Filmer, Lady Baillie, inherited the estate in the early 1900s and established the foundation that has run the castle as a tourist destination since her death in 1974.

From its lavish palace to its lush grounds, the vast 500-acre estate has more attractions than can be experienced in a single visit. The moat that surrounds the castle is actually a lake fed by the River Len, and punting on the water is a favorite activity. The castle grounds boast an elaborate yew maze as well as a turf maze designed for young children.

6. Arundel Castle

The seat of the Duke of Norfolk, Arundel Castle is located in West Sussex in the south of England. One of the best of the continually inhabited castles in England, Arundel Castle features a well-preserved interior filled with rare paintings, tapestries and furnishings. The castle’s oldest feature is its motte, the earthwork mound that lifts the castle 30 meters (100 feet) high from the now-dry moat below.

Arundel Castle has remained the residence of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for more than 850 years. Nearly destroyed during the English Civil War of the 17th century, the structure underwent many renovations over the centuries, and in the 19th century, the 15th Duke of Norfolk completed a long restoration project. Today, the estate’s 14th-century chapel, its exquisite gardens and many of the castle’s breathtaking rooms are open to the public.

5. Bamburgh Castle

Situated on the shore of England’s northeast county of Northumberland, Bamburgh Castle stands on an outcrop of volcanic stone along the coastline. With origins that date back as far as the 3rd or 4th century, Bamburgh Castle may have been the capital of the kingdom ruled by the native Britons known as Din Guarie. The core of present castle was built by the Normans in the 11th century, and it’s believed that Henry II ordered the construction of the castle keep.

In 1894, the Victorian industrialist William Armstrong purchased the castle and restored it. It remains the Armstrong family home today, but 16 rooms are open to visitors. Some rooms have been converted into exhibit halls for artifacts like Medieval armor, including the famous 7th-century Bamburgh Sword excavated from the site during an archaeological dig.

4. Tower of London

Construction for the Tower of London began in 1066 on the north bank of the River Thames. Although built as a fortified castle and royal residence, it was mostly used as a prison from 1100 to 1952. Many famous figures of English history were imprisoned within its walls, including royals like Richard II, Henry VI, Edward V and Elizabeth I. Two of Henry VIII’s six wives were beheaded on the Tower Green.

Although the castle’s official name is Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress, the royal family has not used the Tower as residence since the Tudor period. The castle has been a popular tourist destination since that time, attracting visitors who come to see the castle’s menagerie, its amazing displays of armory and the nation’s Crown Jewels. Yeoman Warder tours led by knowledgeable, friendly and chatty “Beefeaters” are the highlight of a visit to the Tower of London.

3. Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle was built by William the Conqueror in 1068 on a bend of the River Avon. Since its construction in the 11th century, the castle has undergone structural changes with additions of towers and redesigned residential buildings. Originally a wooden structure, it was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century.

During the Hundred Years War, the facade opposite the town was refortified, resulting in one of the most recognizable examples of 14th century military architecture. It was used as a stronghold until the early 17th century, when it was granted to Sir Fulke Greville, who converted it to a country house. It was owned by the Greville family until 1978 when it was bought by a leisure company.

2. Bodiam Castle

Located to the southeast of London in East Sussex, Bodiam Castle is considered one of the best examples of a Medieval fortress, despite the fact that the 14th century structure was built more for status than for strength. After the conclusion of the 100 Years’ War, Richard II granted veteran soldier and landowner Sir Edward Dalyngigge a license to fortify his home as a measure of protection against French invasion.

Looking like something out of a fairytale, Bodiam has all the attributes that people expect when visiting a Medieval castle, from its soaring towers and battlements to its forbidding portcullis and moat. The interior of the castle lies in ruin, however. It was dismantled during the English Civil War in the 1600s to prevent the castle from being used by the enemy. In 1829, art philanthropist John Fuller purchased the castle for 3,000 guineas to save it from demolition.

1. Windsor Castle

Located about an hour west of London , Windsor Castle is often called the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world. It is one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II who spends many weekends of the year at the castle, using it for both state and private entertaining.

The earliest surviving buildings at Windsor date from the reign of Henry II who came to the throne in 1154. Originally designed to protect Norman dominance around the outskirts of London, Windsor Castle was built as a motte and bailey castle, with three wards surrounding a central mound. Gradually replaced with stone fortifications, the castle withstood a prolonged siege during the First Barons’ War at the start of the 13th century.

During the Tudor period, Henry VIII and Elizabeth I made increasing use of the castle as a royal court and center for diplomatic entertainment. Today, much of the castle, including the magnificent State Apartments and St Georges Chapel can be visited.

Map of English Castles

Share this post:

15 Most Charming Small Towns In England

14 Best Cities to Visit in England

28 Top Attractions & Things to Do in England

17 Best Places to Visit in England

12 Best Things to Do in Chester, England

15 Best Things to Do in Oxford, England

12 Best Things to do in Bath, UK

12 Best Things to Do in York, England

18 Most Beautiful Castles in Wales

10 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Reader interactions.

December 5, 2016 at 2:25 am

Can you tell me what castles can you stay at in England and Ireland. Around July and August

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The 15 Best Castles in England to Visit in 2023 – Which you’ll LOVE!

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: February 13, 2023
• 7 minute read

Are you looking for a list of the most impressive and best castles in England to visit this year? This list should help!

If there is one thing England has in spades… It’s history and CASTLES!There are so many incredible castles in England to explore – and I’ve put some of my favourites in this list.

If you’re looking to explore some of the UK’s local history this year, then finding some of the best castles in England is a great place to start.

This list features some of my favourite castles in England, picked for their impressive architecture, or notable historic significance!

So let’s get into it! These are the best castles in England!

Sudeley Castle, Gloucestershire

One of the best castles in England to visit this year is Sudeley Castle , Gloucestershire. The castle itself is a sight to behold, and it’s said that Katherine Parr is buried here on the castle grounds.

We do love some great royal connections when it comes to castles!

However, it’s not just the castle’s awesome royal history that makes it worth visiting. The grounds of the castle are possibly more beautiful than the castle itself.

With perfectly preened hedges and stunning, flowery gardens, it’s unsurprising that many people visit this area to relax and unwind in the castle grounds. It’s such a great choice for castles in England!

Admission to Sudeley Castle is reasonable, coming in at £16.50 for adults, and £7.50 for children. So, if you’re looking to live your best royal life, then be sure to head down for the day!

Warwick Castle, Warwick

Warwick Castle is not only one of the best castles in England to visit for its beauty, but it’s also got some great activities and extras that kids love.

This castle is old, and it’s been standing for about 950 years –impressive if we do say so ourselves.

Though some of the activities held here can be a bit cheesy, they’re great fun for the whole family. From creepy dungeons and ghost shows to excellent themed summer shows, Warwick Castle is a must-visit.

This is one of the best castles in England for activities and shows.

If you’re looking to experience the best of what the castle has to offer, then you’ll need to cough up a little bit of extra cash (if you’re looking to visit the dungeon for example).

However, we really do think it’s worth it, so consider splashing out on the full ticket if you pay Warwick Castle a visit, as it’s one of the top castles in England. 

Read more: 40 things to do in Warwickshire

Corfe Castle, Dorset

Next on my list of castles in England, it’s Corfe Castle. This is another really old castle that has a great deal of history behind it.

Though a lot of the history associated with Corfe Castle is difficult to prove (as it dates to the Saxon era), some of it’s gnarly and well worth learning about!

Much of the castle itself is a bit worse for wear, but much like Stonehenge, much of this castle’s beauty lies in the fact that it was built so long ago.  Sure, this option for castles in England isn’t ‘whole’ but it is beautiful!

If you fancy it, there are some great places to stay nearby that give you some excellent castle views.

If you really want to splash out (and we’re talking over £300 a room), you can book into Castle Cottage which is only five minutes from this landmark. 

The Tower of London, London

We couldn’t write a list of the best castles in England without mentioning the Tower of London! Though you might not immediately consider this a proper castle, we can promise you, it is.

The Tower is better known as one of London’s finest fortresses (as well as one of the best castles in England), and it’s even more well-known for its gruesome history.

If you’re partial to horrible histories, then a visit to the Tower of London will be just what the doctor ordered.

Covering everything from the execution of Anne Boleyn to the stories of the Princes in the Tower, you’ll never look at the Royal Family the same way again! 

This is one of the most important historical castles in England.

Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle is another one of our top picks for the best castles in England. The great thing about Dover Castle is that it offers a little bit of everything.

So, whether you’re keen on Roman Britain or Churchill’s office as Prime Minister, you’ll be able to find something out about it at Dover Castle !

This place is home to a great deal of British History, so you really need to spend more than one day exploring this castle to really appreciate it. 

With entry fees around £22 for adults and £13 for kids (which makes it an affordable choice for castles in England), it’s not an unreasonable day out for the family if you’re trying to cut costs!

A family ticket will probably save you even more, so it’s certainly worth looking into as there’s plenty to do. 

Lindisfarne Castle

Lindisfarne Castle is another great choice for castles in England to visit. Lindisfarne Castle certainly has the WOW factor, perched high on top of a hill, overlooking the Northumberland coastline – it’s a picture-perfect location.

This incredible looking castle was built in the 16th-century, and it’s definitely one of the most unique castles in England to visit!

Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire

Bolsover Castle is next on my list of castles in England! This Stuart Mansion was originally built as a massive entertainment venue, and it’s still got a reputation for being THE place to be.

With great views of Derbyshire on offer as well as a host of lavish rooms to explore, it’s the perfect place to visit with the family.

We highly recommend checking out the Riding House first (which makes this place unique on our list of castles in England), and then moving on to the extensive ground to let the kids run wild.

Well, not too wild, but there is a great fun play area that kids adore. 

Oh, and if you really want to be fancy, why not book in for a tearoom treat while you’re at Bolsover Castle? It’s been said that the scones with fresh cream and jam are just delightful. 

A great choice for castles in England to visit!

Middleham Castle, Yorkshire

A visit to Middleham Castle is a must if you’re heading to the Yorkshire Dales – and it’s a great option for castles in England to visit.

Known as one of the best castles in England to visit because of its awesome history (Richard III lived here once upon a time!), it’s certainly one to add to your must-see list.

This castle in England no longer has a roof, but the walls of the castle have survived well, and its ruins are truly a sight to behold.

If the castle itself wasn’t enough of a draw, you get some great views of Wensleydale from the viewing platform, so it’s a great place to visit for some photos.

Oh, and be sure to keep an eye out for the horse mill too! Castles in England are amazing and this is one of the top ones!

Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

Kenilworth Castle is next on my list of castles in England to visit this year. Having been around for over 900 years, Kenilworth Castle has plenty of history to teach you about!

Whether you fancy checking out the famous Norman keep or would rather explore the majestic Great Hall, you’re sure to have an awesome time at Kenilworth Castle.

However, it’s not just the castle itself that makes it one of the castles in England to visit. Its grounds are a huge draw too! So, make sure you don’t miss them out when you book in to visit!

Windsor Castle, Windsor

Another iconic choice of castles in England has to Windsor Castle. It had to be on our list of the best castles in England!

Home to the Royal Family, this is easily one of the most iconic castles in England.

Located only 30 minutes from Central London, you can be at Windsor in a jiffy!

If you’re choosing to visit Windsor Castle, we highly recommend booking your tickets in advance. Though you can buy them on arrival, it does tend to get incredibly busy, so we recommend planning ahead.

This place has been the host of many royal weddings too – so there’s plenty of modern history as well as ancient history!

Bodiam Castle

This castle in England isn’t one of the biggest, but it is unique and that’s what I love about it! I love the little moat around the castle, and the grounds are wonderfully well kept.

In short- this is a picture-perfect choice for castles in England that you won’t want to miss!

If I had to pick one of the castles in England on this list to live in… I think this might be the castle I would choose! What do you think?

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is next on my list of the best castles in England. For me, Leeds Castle is one of the best castles in England, because it has the typical grand castle-look to it.

If you were to ask someone to draw a castle – it’d probably look something like Leeds Castle!

Interestingly though, Leeds Castle isn’t actually in the city of Leeds. It’s 5 miles southeast of Maidstone in Kent, and named for the tiny village of Leeds nearby.

Bamburgh Castle

If you’re looking for castles in England that are by the sea, then Bamburgh Castle will likely be what you’re after!

It could be argued that Bamburgh Castle is one of the most magnificent castles in England – situated right on the coast with incredible views of the ocean to enjoy.

This castle is like something out of a fairytale, and for that reason alone, it’s worth a visit.

It has also stood guard above the beautiful Northumberland coastline for over 1,400 years – which is quite an achievement!

Read more: The best things to do in Northumberland.

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is next on my list of the best castles in England… and it’s another castle located in Northumberland.

Alnwick Castle is a pretty spectacular castle in England, it has towering walls and structures, and remains pretty intact too – so it’s ideal for exploring.

This castle in England has been around since Norman times (the 1300’s) so it’s seen it’s fair share of history! It has also seen it’s fair share of TV and movie location filming too! So you may recognise it!

Lancaster Castle

Lancaster Castle is next on my list of the best castles in England. Lancaster Castle is actually in the heart of Lancaster, so if you’re in the city for a weekend or a day, chances are you’ll easily be able to check this place out.

Lancaster Castle has over 1000 years of history, fascinating stories weaving through history at this castle in England.

Lancaster Castle is a great choice for castles in England as it’s one of the most significant castles in the north west and a perfect place to watch history come alive!

We hope that our list of the best castles in England to visit has been useful!

As you can see, there are SO many options across the whole of the country to visit castles in England!

So you’re sure to find the perfect castle in England to explore that’s not too far from you.

If you don’t mind venturing a little further afield.. then this list of castles in Aberdeenshire is also worth checking out!

So, what are you waiting for? Get planning, history seekers and check out these castles in England!

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

Post navigation

35 Fun Things to do in Somerset (Ultimate List for 2023!)

Our 22 Favorite Bars in Midtown NYC: The Best Bars in 2023!

You might also like.

• Latest Articles

Review: The Aqua Shard London

• December 10, 2013
• 3 minute read

A Very British Christmas

• December 28, 2013

Garsons Farm Esher: Escaping from London for a few hours!

• September 2, 2014
• 2 minute read

• Historical Sites in England >
• Castles & Palaces >

Top 10 Castles & Palaces in England

England has no shortage of castles and palaces, especially given its very small size. In fact, one of the nations favourite pastimes is to visit the vast number of spectacular heritage sites dotted around the country. Our pick of the top 10 castles and palaces in England lists some of the all-time classics as well as some of the more quirky and unusual choices.

1. Windsor Castle:

Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world! At nearly 1,000 years it is an official residence of the British Royal Family, and is often used and lived in by the King. No visit to the United Kingdom would be complete without a stroll around the castle including its state rooms, chapel and dolls house that make up this impressive display of British history and heritage.

2. Blenheim Palace:

Blenheim Palace is one of Britain’s most impressive palaces. If first impressions are anything to go by, then the imposing and flamboyant landscaped gardens will blow you away!  The inside of Blenheim Palace equally doesn’t disappoint with impressive state rooms and lavish furnishings. The palace was in fact the birthplace of the great Winston Churchill and there’s an exhibition showcasing Churchill’s connection with the palace.

Tour of Blenheim Palace:  Click here

3. Leeds Castle:

Once described as the loveliest castle in the world, this fairy tale castle is surrounded by a moat and landscaped gardens. Located in Southern England, 40 miles from London, Leeds Castle dates back over 900 years and includes extensive grounds, gardens, a moat, a rampart and several towers. You can visit it on our day tour of Southern England from London.

4. Hampton Court Palace

Just a 30 minute ride from Central London, Hampton Court Palace is a pristine example of British Tudor architecture. 60 acres of gardens are combined with an impressive artwork collection and grand royal rooms. Its certainly one of the top castles and palaces to visit from London and is a great day out for all the family.

5. Buckingham Palace

The London residence and administrative headquarters of the King of the United Kingdom. Every day, visitors from all over the world line up outside the Palace gates to watch the changing of the guard ceremony, an impressive display of the British monarchy. The Palace is open during the summer months to visitors, who can view the impressive state rooms and take a tour of the extensive landscaped gardens. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony that takes place outside Buckingham Palace which you can view as part of our London sightseeing day tour .

6. Chatsworth House

Number 6 of our top 10 castles & palaces in England is the country estate of Chatsworth House. Officially the home of the Duke of Devonshire, this grand house is set in the Peak District which is one of the most beautiful regions of the UK. The house includes impressive paintings by da Vinci and Rembrandt and many grand rooms filled with lush furnishings and decor.

7. Warwick Castle:

Warwick Castle is a perfect day out for the family and one of the finest medieval English Castles . This impressive 1,000 year old castle has been re-imagined as a kind of adventure playground for kids with loads of activities for all the family. There’s a maze, a dungeon, and plenty of towers to climb.

8. Bodiam Castle

For those looking for an off-the-beaten path castle to visit then this one might just be for you. In terms of dramatic settings it doesn’t get more impressive than Bodiam! This castle moat was built in the 14th Century to defend the area against a French invasion and has been carefully restored in recent years, with plenty of fascinating rooms to explore. Given its remote location, Bodiam Castle is best reached by car, although there are a few transportation options that will get you there… eventually!

More info:  Click here Private Tour:  Click here

9. Tintagel Castle

For those who like myths and legends this is the castle for you! King Arthur’s legends are closely connected to Tintagel . The story goes that it was here that Arthur was conceived and he would of course later go on to be a legendary warrior renowned for his extraordinary bravery.

10. Stay in a Castle

Don’t just visit a castle, but stay in a castle ! There are lots of castles and country houses that have been converted into luxury hotels. Many of these are located within driving distance of London and are an amazing way to experience the life of a king or queen!

more things to do

25 Things to do in London

England Vacation Packages 6-Days and More

Where to Stay in London - Best Areas in London

How Many Days Should You Spend in London?

Top Celebrity Hotels in London 2024

The 10 Best London Tours 2024

9 Great Scottish Castles

One of the best things about Scotland is that no matter where you find yourself, a castle is never far away. As integral to the Scottish landscape as its lochs and mountains, the country’s castles rank amongst the most iconic in the world. There were once up to 3,000 castles in Scotland, so it's tough for us to narrow down our favourites! Here’s our pick of the ones which never fail to impress.

Balmoral Castle Braemar

Balmoral Castle

Set in the serene countryside of Aberdeenshire, Queen Victoria lovingly described Balmoral as her "dear paradise in the Highlands", and it still remains a private home of the Royal Family. When the Royals are not in residence, visitors can enjoy exhibitions in the Castle Ballroom, the largest room in the castle, and wander through the charming gardens and grounds.

• On Public Transport Route
• Pets Welcome
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Accessible toilets
• Cafe or Restaurant

Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle in the sunshine

Set atop a craggy extinct volcano in the hear of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Castle is unquestionably Scotland’s most famous castle. This sprawling complex houses the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. Famous Scots throughout history have made their mark on the castle, from Mary Queen of Scots to Sir Walter Scott. Make sure to get there in time for the spectacular firing of the One O’ Clock Gun!

• Level Access

Dunnottar Castle Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

Dunnottar Castle

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Dramatic doesn’t even begin to cover this formidable cliff-top stronghold. Perched on an immense rocky outcrop overlooking the north east coast, Dunnottar has witnessed many pivotal moments in Scotland’s history as a fortress of the Earls of Marischal. The sight of it silhouetted against the setting sun is truly spellbinding.

Stirling Castle Stirling

Stirling Castle

Meticulously restored to its original Renaissance glory, Stirling Castle was the favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens. Highlights include the Great Hall, Chapel Royal and Tapestry Studio, where you can delve into a world of decadence, plots and intrigue. It's also a great place to bring the family - the kids will love meeting costumed courtiers, bodyguards and servants!

• Hearing Loop

Eilean Donan Castle Kyle of Lochalsh

Eilean Donan Castle on Loch Duich at Dornie

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

Eilean Donan has to be one of the most photographed castles in the world with a site history that dates back to 643 AD. It boasts a romantic setting on an island at the entrance of Loch Duich, surrounded by the forested mountains of Kintail and overlooking the Isle of Skye. Eilean Donan is steeped in Jacobite lore and history; amongst the rare artefacts on display is a sword said to have been wielded at Culloden. More recently, you might recognise it as a backdrop in films including Highlander , The World is Not Enough and Rob Roy .

Glamis Castle Forfar

Glamis Castle

The red sandstone walls of Glamis have been home to many colourful characters throughout the centuries, not least of them the late Queen Mother. Once the family home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, it also famously features in Shakespeare’s  Macbeth . Crowned with iconic battlements and pointed turrets, Glamis is the epitome of baronial grandeur and is only a short trip from Dundee. 

Inveraray Castle Argyll & The Isles

Inveraray Castle

© VisitScotland / Stuart Brunton

Inveraray Castle is one of Scotland's finest stately homes and the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, Chiefs of the Campbell Clan since the early 15th century. With an intricate façade and sumptuous interiors, the castle embodies the pinnacle of 18th century neoclassical elegance. Admire priceless Beauvais tapestries in the Drawing Room, as well as outstanding views of Loch Fyne.

Cawdor Castle Nairn

Cawdor Castle

The fictional home of the Thane of Cawdor in Shakespeare's  Macbeth , Cawdor Castle ranks among Scotland’s most enchanting castles. Celebrated for its fairy-tale edifice, dramatic history and romantic gardens - parts of which are over 300 years old - a visit here is like stepping into bygone age. According to local legend, if you visit the castle dungeons you can still see a thorn or holly tree which the castle was built around dating back to 1372. 

Blair Castle Blair Atholl

Blair Castle

The white-washed Blair Castle stands proudly against a backdrop of wooded hills rising above the River Garry. The ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl, it is also the home of Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders. Explore its opulent rooms, sprawling estate and peaceful surroundings in the heart of the Highlands.

Find experiences

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this product search form. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Other things you might like

Scotland's Castle Trail

Stay in a Castle in Scotland

Highland castles itinerary

Historic Attractions in Scotland

Dream Barbie Pink Attractions

10 Scottish Surnames & Their Clan History

Castles to Visit in Scotland

Outlander Filming Locations

Join our newsletter clan.

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Highclere Castle: Inside the Hampshire estate and how to visit

Explore the stunning stately home and gardens, used as the main location in Downton Abbey

Originally built in 1679, Highclere Castle underwent architectural renovations in the 1840s that resulted in its striking Jacobethan and Italianate style, which draws thousands of visitors each year.

The property, which you can visit on an exclusive tour with Good Housekeeping , sits on an estate that stretches 5,000 acres and comprises farmland, woodland, a park designed by renowned gardener Capability Brown in the 18th century and numerous landscaped gardens.

Where is Highclere Castle?

Highclere Castle is located in the village of Highclere in Hampshire, nestled in the rolling North Wessex Downs, a certified Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village is a great starting point for numerous scenic walks despite its proximity to the busy towns of Andover (approximately ten miles south) and Newbury (approximately five miles north, across the border in Berkshire).

Who owns Highclere Castle?

Highclere Castle is owned by Lord Carnarvon – George Herbert, 8th Earl of Carnarvon – and Lady Fiona Carnarvon (pictured below), who are also full-time residents.

The first written records of the Highclere estate date back to 749 AD, when the Bishops of Winchester were gifted it by an Anglo-Saxon king. It was Bishop William of Wykeham who first built a medieval palace and gardens on the site, before the property was rebuilt as Highclere Place House in 1679, after being purchased by Sir Robert Sawyer, the ancestor of Lord Carnarvon.

In 1842, architect Sir Charles Barry, who designed the Houses of Parliament and the Elizabeth Tower (better known as Big Ben), remodelled the house into Highclere Castle as it stands today.

Lord Carnarvon is heavily involved in the estate's farming business, while Lady Carnarvon is author to several books about Highclere and its former residents. Lady Carnarvon also has a podcast and blog based on her magnificent home, its involvement with Downtown Abbey and its behind-the-scenes workings.

What is there to see and do at Highclere Castle?

Visitors can enjoy both guided and self-guided tours inside the castle , taking in some of the main state rooms, bedrooms, the cellars and the old staff quarters, much of which will be recognisable to Downton fans.

The castle is also home to the Egyptian Exhibition, which tells the story of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon (Lord Carnarvon’s great grandfather) discovering King Tutankhamun’s tomb with archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. The exhibition showcases real artefacts dug from the tomb along with some recreations, as well as items excavated by the 5th Earl of Carnarvon elsewhere around the world.

Outside, you can roam the sprawling parkland or explore the picturesque gardens, including a secret garden, wildflower meadow, the Wood of Goodwill, the Rose Arbour, and the aromatic Healing Herb garden.

How to visit Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle and its grounds are accessible mainly in spring and summer months (check their website for exact dates). During these times, it’s advised that entry and tours are pre-booked, however the estate does allow some walk-up visitors daily. They suggest calling ahead to check availability.

Throughout the rest of the year Highclere hosts a selection of ticketed events, from a history festival in autumn to carol evenings at Christmas. Visit Highclere Castle website for details of all upcoming events.

You can also visit Highclere on an exclusive visit with Good Housekeeping this year. You'll enjoy an unforgettable journey aboard the British Pullman, including a three-course brunch and dinner, to Highclere Castle for a talk with Lady Carnarvon and our Editor-in-Chief, Gaby Huddart.

FIND OUT MORE

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

Glacier Express: Everything you need to know

Cruise to Japan's cherry blossom displays with GH

Everything you need to know about Japan in spring

The best hotels in Sydney

Our guide to Danube river cruises

The best river cruises

The best cruises for 2024

5 amazing holidays to Japan

The best spring holidays for 2024

Lake Orta is the hidden gem of the Italian Lakes

Best time to visit Japan: Here's when to go

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

8 Epic FREE Castles to visit in England & the UK

Looking for the best free castles to visit in England and the UK? You’re in the right place. Here are some of our favourites.

Planning a road trip? Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner below.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Best Free Castles in the UK

There’s something about castles.

Maybe it’s the way their stone walls seem to reach toward the sky, or how they always seem to be built on high ground.

Maybe it’s the way they take you back in time, or maybe it’s just that they’re just so darn imposing – you can’t help but feel like you’re stepping into a different era when you’re inside one.

Whatever it is, there’s no denying that the UK is lucky enough to have a LOT of these incredible buildings, and they are all a big part of British history.

They may have been around for centuries, and many have been destroyed over time, but even wandering through castle ruins can make a fun day out- especially if it’s free!

Want to explore more? We strongly recommend joining these two incredible organisations when you’re touring the UK:

National Trust

English Heritage

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

When you’re planning a road trip, keeping track & organising all your ideas is often the hardest part. Fix that TODAY with our printable pdf road trip planner. Grab yours FREE now

This form subscribes you to our mailing list. We share tips, itineraries, stupid mistakes and guides like this for road trippers and motorhomers.

We never spam (yuck) and you can unsubscribe at any time.

The Best Free castles in England

The history of England is chock full of incredible battles and the building of castles. Like the rest of the UK, they are everywhere.

What’s fascinating about them is how the architecture changes- and the direction of the defences, depending on the enemy. There are PLENTY of castles to enjoy on an England road trip , but here are some of the best free to visit ones.

Alnwick Castle 

Location: Alnwick NE66 1NQ

Alnwick Castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in England. Its construction was ordered by William II (Rufus), who was King of England from 1087-1100 and his descendants ( the Percy’s ) still live there today.

The castle has been the setting of many films, including Harry Potter and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Parking for people with limited mobility is available on Castle Square and in the main car park at The Alnwick Garden. The Castle has been open to the public since 1938 and is one of the most visited attractions in Northumberland. It is a Grade I listed building, as are its gardens, which are also open to visitors from March to October.

Liverpool Castle 

Location: Rivington, Bolton BL6 7SB

Liverpool Castle is a medieval fortification in the village of Rivington, Chorley, Lancashire, England. (NO- it’s not in Liverpool!)

The castle was founded by King John and was built to protect against Scottish raids from across the river Ribble. It was built sometime between 1207 and 1210 and was designed to be defended by only a small number of soldiers because it was also a royal residence for the king. 

Rivington Reservoir Car Park is located just off Rivington Lane and provides access to a tree-lined avenue that will take you directly to the castle.

During its long history, the castle has undergone many changes, including being captured by the Scots in 1319 and retaken by the English army only six years later.

Liverpool Castle remained in use until 1536 when it was abandoned due to structural problems caused by flooding. It’s just ruins now, but it’s a lovely walk and a great place for legs (big & little) to stretch themselves.

Peveril Castle

Location: Market Pl, Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WQ

The remains of Peveril Castle sit in an imposing location, overlooking the popular village of Castleton in the Peak District. It dates back to 1153 and was built by William Peveril, a Norman knight who fought under William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings.

William received land from Henry II to build the fortress but was imprisoned at Nottingham Castle after joining a rebellion led by Thomas Becket.

The castle was besieged by King John in 1216 but managed to hold out until the king’s death, after which it was captured by his successor Henry III.

The site is free to enter and the visitor centre is located at the bottom of a hill, with ample parking spaces. There are also several cafes to enjoy if you wish.

Location: 35 Castle St, Eye IP23 7AW

Eye Castle is a medieval hilltop ruin, built by William Malet. The Castle site has recently been restored and revamped, opening new areas to explore and providing a viewing platform offering wonderful views of the church, 

You can see for miles over the surrounding countryside. Parking is available near the cross street car park and there are also toilets close to this parking lot.

There are also remains of a medieval fishpond that can be seen, along with the original drawbridge.

The castle is a good place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Eye and its surrounding area. There are also some great walks around the village, including a walk up the hill to see the town’s windmill.

Best free castle in Scotland

I defy you to enjoy a Scotland road trip without passing a castle. They are EVERYWHERE.

Indeed, some of the most scenic drives in Scotland include many of them on their itinerary. But here is one of the best free to visit castles in Scotland.

Kilchurn Castle

Location: Lochawe, Dalmally PA33 1AF

Kilchurn Castle is the oldest castle in Scotland. It was built in about 1450 and has been passed down through four generations of the Campbell family.

There’s a free parking area at the entrance to Loch Awe off A85, and there’s room for vans if you’re motorhoming in Scotland . It will take you less than 15 minutes to walk from the highway through the wooded area and over a small creek, up towards Kilchurn Castle.

During its long history, Kilchurn Castle has served various functions: first as an administrative centre for the Romans; then as a clan fortress during Scotland’s Wars of Independence (1250-1300); and later as a state prison in the 17th century.

Since the early 1900s, this magnificent castle has been open to the public and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can step back in time and get a glimpse of what life was like for royalty during Scotland’s medieval period.

Best Free Castle in Wales

Wales also has plenty of incredible castles and historic buildings to enjoy. If you’re motorhoming in Wales , you can even stay in some of their car parks. But here is one of our favourite free to visit castles.

Harlech Castle

Location: Harlech Castle, Harlech LL46 2YH

Harlech Castle was built by English kings in the early 15th century, as a stronghold to control Wales. It is one of the most important castles in Wales and has been described as Britain’s finest example of medieval military architecture.

The castle is perched on a rocky outcrop, with dramatic views over Tremadog Bay. There’s ample parking nearby, although you do need to pay. You can walk from the car park to the castle itself, but if you want to see more of the grounds, there is a narrow-gauge railway that runs around them.

The views are spectacular and well worth taking some time out of your Wales road trip to explore this area.

Today, Harlech Castle is a tourist attraction and a popular filming location for movies and TV shows including A Knight’s Tale, Doctor Who, Merlin and Braveheart. There are guided tours through the castle, which is open to the public.

It is also possible to wander around the grounds at your leisure. There is a small museum inside the keep, which provides an insight into life at Harlech Castle during medieval times.

Best Free Castle in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has a lot of incredible history and places to visit. But if you’re looking for a free castle, head to the Grand Belfast hotel.

Belfast Castle

Location: 9-15 Bedford St, Belfast BT2 7FF

Belfast Castle stands proud on the grounds of Cave Hill Country Park, overlooking the city. It enjoys breathtaking views of Belfast and the surrounding countryside due to its elevated position.

In 1806, the castle was destroyed by fire. In the 19th century, it became part of a large estate that included a deer park and golf course.

During WWI wounded soldiers were brought to the castle to recover and it served as a base for the military during WWII, then later became a youth hostel.

During the 1970s it was abandoned but restored in 1980 to serve once again as an attraction with guided tours offered daily through summer months (April-October).

You can park your car at the Great Northern multi-storey car park to take advantage of a special rate. If you do, the hotel will validate your parking ticket for £10 per 24-hour. If you’re in a motorhome, you’ll need to find alternative parking as they can’t fit in the multi-storey.

We hope you found that list of the best free castles in England and the UK useful. Here are some more UK posts you might find helpful:

• How to plan a UK road trip
• The best UK motorhoming holidays
• 15 unmissable UK road trip ideas

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts

Hampshire & Dorset road trip- 21 beautiful places to visit

10 EPIC UK Winter Road Trips You NEED to Drive

11 BREATHTAKING best places to see in Southern Norway

Transfagarasan, Romania (driving The top gear road)

North Coast 500 motorhome Guide- Route, Highlights and Tips

Motorhome Wild Camping in Scotland- Essential things you need to know

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.