The UK has some of the most fantastic castles in the world, with each building carrying history that can stretch back centuries. From elegant residences made for royals to stone castles meant to aid against invasion, these castles will allow you to dig deep into the UK’s past. Come with us as we depart on a journey to explore 15 of the UK’s most impressive castles.
Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
Warwick is a grand medieval fortress that blends history with a dash of entertainment. It was originally built in 1068 by William the Conqueror, boasting high ramparts, with daily live shows and interactive exhibits throughout the castle. You can walk its landscaped gardens, inspect the lavish interiors, or even explore the dungeon. Tours of the castle are ideal for families or history enthusiasts looking to learn more about the fortresses erected in England’s dramatic past.
Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland
Lindisfarne Castle is perched atop Holy Island’s crags, standing on a beautiful tidal location. The 16th-century stronghold is only accessible during low tide and offers visitors vast views sweeping across the North Sea. Its location, coupled with the blend of Tudor military architecture and halls decorated by art, creates an otherworldly atmosphere that can only be experienced by walking its grounds.
Dover Castle, Kent
Dover Castle, also known as “Key to England,” has sat defending the coast for more than 900 years. It commands views of the English Channel and has played critical roles in both World War II and medieval wars long past. Visiting the castle allows the exploration of a Roman lighthouse, secret underground wartime tunnels, and Henry II’s Great Tower. There is so much history packed into this castle that you’ll need to take multiple tours to see it all!
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland
Bamburgh Castle is a picturesque visit that sits overlooking the coastline of Northumberland. Anglo-Saxon kings once sat within its walls, but now it houses fine art, many artifacts, and views of the surrounding waters. The rooms within the castle have been beautifully preserved and draw thousands of photographers to its grounds as they strive to capture its dramatic setting.
Bodiam Castle, Sussex
Bodiam Castle is known for its moat that stretches around the entirety of the fortress. It was built in 1385 to protect local lands against French invaders and shows the lengths to which they went to secure their territory. Unfortunately, the castle has been partly destroyed, but the exterior remains mostly intact. The surrounding wilderness is perfect for hikes and picnics as you learn about the chivalric duties of the knights who once fought to defend the local territory.
Leeds Castle, Kent
Leeds Castle has been called “The Loveliest Castle in the World.” It sits on an island located on the River Len, and its history dates back nine centuries. In 1119, the castle served as a stronghold for the Normans, an elegant residence, but most importantly, a royal palace. The inside is lavishly decorated, with gardens encircling the fortress that let you take in the beauty of royal luxury.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Castle Rock is a volcanic hill in the middle of Edinburgh, with Edinburgh Castle being constructed at the top. It is Scotland’s most famous fortress, holding precious artifacts like the Stone of Destiny and the Crown Jewels. UNESCO has dubbed it a World Heritage Site, but it remains a miracle that even after its proud military past, it is still standing strong atop Castle Rock.
Caernarfon Castle, Wales
In North Wales lies the mighty Caernarfon Castle, which was built by Edward I to show England’s dominance over the Welsh. Its high polygonal towers look over the river, which was once used to repel any forces that would seek to take the territory. Today, it is a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site and even saw the investiture of Prince Charles take place within its walls in 1969.
Lancaster Castle, Lancashire
Lancaster Castle was once a working court and a former prison. Historians speculate it was built in the 11th century on top of an old Roman fort overlooking the River Lune. Afterwards, the Normans made it a near stronghold, and it would later be used as a holding place during the Pendle Witch Trials in 1612. Tours of the castle will reveal its dungeons, courtrooms, and tales of the many trials that took place in its halls.
Dunnottar Castle, Scotland
Dunnottar Castle sits in ruins atop a cliff overlooking the North Sea on Scotland’s coast. The castle is around 2 miles south of Stonehaven and was once the home of the Earl Marischal. Buildings that have stood the test of time are mainly from the 15th and 16th centuries and are believed to have been a pivotal point of defense for Scotland.
Lincoln Castle, Lincolnshire
Lincoln Castle is an exquisite castle that was constructed by William the Conqueror in the late 11th century atop the ruins of a Roman fortress. What is unusual is that the castle has two moats, which is one of only two castles that were built this way. The castle also houses one of the four original surviving copies of the Magna Carta!
Cardiff Castle, Wales
When the Normans invaded, they built Cardiff Castle atop the ruins of a third-century Roman fort at the center of Cardiff. Many describe the building as having a Victorian Gothic style, with beautiful interiors balanced by the grit captured in its hard stone. Since it sits at the old center of Cardiff, it has become one of its most important heritage sites and is a must-see if you’re ever in the area.
Oxford Castle & Prison, Oxfordshire
Oxford Castle stands as the ruins of a medieval castle built in the late 11th century. In the 14th century, the castle’s military value decreased, leading it to become the county’s prison. However, in the 18th century, most of the castle was destroyed in the English Civil War, and the prison was officially closed in 1996 when it was redeveloped into a hotel and tourist attraction.
Hever Castle & Gardens, Kent
Hever Castle is located a mere 30 miles southeast of London and was once the home of Anne Boleyn. The castle started as a country house built in the 13th century but was soon transformed into a magnificent castle. The property features extensive gardens and a man-made moat that circles part of the property. If you wish, you can even stay at the castle, as they now offer luxury accommodation coupled with tours of the grounds.
Arundel Castle, Sussex
Arundel Castle’s history spans over a thousand years, and it still stands as a symbol of resilience and nobility. The castle once belonged to the Dukes of Norfolk, but during the English Civil War, it was badly damaged. However, it was then restored in the 18th and 19th centuries by Charles Howard, the 11th Duke of Norfolk. It now serves as a preserved attraction where you can see some of the most beautiful tulips in England or walk through its lavish halls.
