best castles to visit north england

Castles in Northern England

For people in England, it is a proud badge to be a northerner. However, in a fierce debate over the north-south divide, no one can really agree on where the north is! The likes of Manchester and Liverpool are easily in the north, but when it comes to Birmingham, who knows?

Northern England has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United Kingdom. There are the waters and meres of the Lake District, the rugged coastline of Northumberland, and the charm of the Yorkshire Dales. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most beautiful and fascinating castles in North England. Which one will you decide to visit first?

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16 Castles to Visit in Northern England

1. beeston castle.

When the 6 th Earl of Chester, Ranulf de Blondeville, decided to build a castle on his return from the crusades, he chose his location well. The crag on which Beeston Castle stands has been occupied since the Neolithic age, and the foundations of an Iron Age Hill Fort lie here.

Although the castle was initially used as a fortification to both defend and attack, its purpose changed somewhat, and it became a royal castle. There is even said to be a treasure in the castle grounds, squirreled away by Richard III.

From the castle, you can see across the Welsh mountains on a clear day. It’s surrounded by woodland, which makes for a lovely walk too!

Where: Beeston, Tarporley Style: Medieval Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

2. Skipton castle

Built in 1090, Skipton Castle was established not long after the ‘Harrying of the North’. This was a campaign by William the Conqueror to suppress opposition to Northern England coming under Norman control. Its location meant it was also dragged into the Anglo-Scottish Wars a couple of centuries later.

Despite seeing numerous battles and sieges (one of which lasted three years in the English Civil War), Skipton boasts one of the best-preserved medieval castles in North England today. Once you’ve enjoyed the views from the watchtower and felt the chill of the dungeons, there’s a tearoom and a picnic area where visitors can relax. 

Where: Skipton When: 11 th century Open for visit : Yes,  check here for more information.

3. Lancaster Castle

Looking across the River Lune, Lancaster Castle guarded the Picts and Scots against crossing that line in Roman Times. Also known as John O’Gaunt’s Castle, what you can see now doesn’t date quite that far back. However, along with Skipton, it is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the country.

It has a long relationship with law and justice (or lack of it in some cases) as it was where many were condemned in the Lancashire witch trials of the 17 th century, and it was an HM Prison until 2011. Now, it is a tourist attraction that you can explore on a guided tour.

Where: Lancaster When: 11 th century Open for Visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

4. Middleham Castle

The childhood home of Richard III, the last king of the House of York, Middleham Castle sits looking out over the beautiful Yorkshire Dales from the cozy market town of the same name. Although the castle is missing its roof, it is remarkably well-preserved.

Guests can see remains of a horse mill and oven on the castle grounds as well as a 15 th -century replica of the Middleham Jewel. The original is on display in the Yorkshire Museum. Middleham Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.

Where: Middleham When: 12 th century Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

5. Raby Castle

Raby Castle is not only worth a visit for the castle itself but the surrounding woodland and deer park. The fortress was built by the powerful Nevill family in the 14 th century and has nine towers. Since the 17 th century, it has been the home of Lord and Lady Barnard.

The castle also boasts a coach house that holds a collection of several coaches and carriages from the 18 th and 19 th centuries. The 200-acre parkland in which the castle is located has traditional walled gardens, and herds of red and fallow deer, and you can even rent a bike to discover the woodland trails. 

Where: Staindrop, Darlington When: 14 th century Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

6. Durham Castle

Now part of Durham’s university college, this UNESCO World Heritage has been continuously occupied since its construction just six years after William the Conqueror arrived in England. It was constructed under his orders using stone from the cliff below.

The castle has been damaged a number of times over the years but has always been rebuilt and restored. Evidence shows that Durham Castle was built on the site of an Anglo-Saxon defensive structure, much like other castles built during the Norman Conquest.

Where: Durham When: 11 th century Open for visit:  Yes, guided tours usually take place 3-4 times daily.  Check here for more information.

7. Carlisle Castle

This medieval fortress has watched over Carlisle for more than 900 years. Due to the city’s location near the Scottish border near the ruin of Hadrian’s Wall, it has seen many historic battles.

Mary Queen of Scots was one of many that were held prisoner in the tower here. One of the most unusual things to see in the castle is the stone carvings in the keep.

They are thought to be the work of either prisoners or guards – either way, they are intricate and intriguing. Carlisle Castle is also home to Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life.

Where: Carlisle When: 11 th century Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

8. Prudhoe Castle

The only Northumberland castle never to be taken by force by a Scottish Army, Prudhoe Castle stands overlooking the River Tyne. It was built at the behest of William the Conqueror as one of a series of castles to protect against invading and marauding Scots.

Until recently, it was one of the longest continuously occupied castles in the UK and was owned by the Percy family (who still live in Alnwick Castle in Northumberland). There is a fine Georgian mansion within the walls and several walks along the River Tyne nearby.

Where: Prudhoe When: 11 th century Open for Visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

9. Aydon Castle

Hidden away outside the charming village of Corbridge in Northumberland, you’ll find Aydon Castle. It’s a beautiful example of a manor house that has been almost untouched since the 13 th century…

Well, it was fortified during the Anglo-Scottish wars a century later, then pillaged and burned. Happily, it was restored! Since then, it has had a more peaceful life, being an occupied farmhouse from the 17 th century until 1966. The castle is surrounded by woodland, perfect for walks and picnics. 

Where: Near Corbridge When: 13 th century Open for Visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

10. Tynemouth Priory and Castle

Once one of the largest fortified areas in England, Tynemouth Priory overlooks both the North Sea and River Tyne. The ruins you can now see date back to the 13 th and 14 th centuries, but this place has more than 2,000 years of history.

It has been constantly repurposed since its beginnings as an Anglo-Saxon settlement, later becoming an Anglican monastery, royal castle, and artillery fort.

You can still see the refurbished battery gun that defended the Tyne in both world wars of the 20 th century. After visiting the priory, the charming village of Tynemouth has lots of independent cafes and shops, as well as two excellent beaches.

Where: Tynemouth When: 13 th century Open for Visit: Yes. Check here for more information.

11. Elsdon Tower

Elsdon Tower was first constructed in 1415 near the village of Otterburn, close to Kielder Forest Park. It has thick walls and protects those inside against the border reivers (raiders) that terrorized the county in the 16 th century.

The defensive tower was converted into a rectory and has been named as the best-preserved historic building in Northumberland National Park. You can only view it from afar as it’s not open to the general public.

Where: Elsdon When: 15 th century Open for Visit: No. The tower is a private residence but can be viewed from afar.

12. Warkworth Castle

The Northumberland Coastal Route is an excellent road trip if you want to enjoy two of the things Northumberland is known for – its jaw-droppingly beautiful coastline and its historic castles. Warkworth is one of the first you’ll come to, and it’s unmissable.

It dominates the village of the same name, with most of the exterior walls still intact. Warkworth Castle was the seat of the Dukes of Northumberland, and it has an unusual cross-shaped keep. There’s also a hermitage that you can access from the castle, but that’ll take a small boat ride upstream. 

Where: Warkworth When: 12 th century Open for Visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

13. Dunstanburgh Castle

Located along one of the most popular coastal walks in Northumberland, Dunstanburgh Castle stands on a remote headland between Craster and Embleton. Like Tynemouth Priory, it was once one of the largest fortifications in England.

Still standing are the Lilburn Tower and the great gatehouse. Walking to Dunstanburgh is the perfect blend of history and nature. Visitors should reward themselves with some smoked kippers at Craster after a bracing walk by the North Sea.

Where: Near Craster and Embleton When: 14 th century Open for Visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

14. Bamburgh Castle

Just a few miles up the coast from Dunstanburgh Castle, you’ll find Bamburgh Castle. Standing on an outcrop above the village of the same name, it is one of the most majestic and impressive castles in North England.

Archaeologists often dig here in the summer as there is evidence of settlements on the site from long before the current castle was built. Bamburgh Castle is the ancient home of the Kings of Northumbria, who you can learn more about at the exhibitions in the castle.

After visiting, be sure to take a walk on the beach behind the castle or head to the nearby town of Seahouses for fish and chips.

Where: Bamburgh When: 11 th century Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

15. Lindisfarne Castle

Lindisfarne is also known as Holy Island; it’s where the Lindisfarne gospels were written. There was a monastery on the island long before the castle, which was built in the 16 th century.

The castle fell into ruin but was restored in the 20 th century to be a private holiday home. Now, the castle is open to the public and showcases the history of the island.

Make sure to check the tide times before committing to visiting this castle. Cars get stuck on the causeway throughout the year, and it’s not a pleasant situation to be in! 

Where: Holy Island When: 16 th century Open for Visit:  Yes,  check here for more information.

16. Norham Castle

Standing just minutes from the English-Scottish border, Norham Castle commands a ford over the River Tweed. It was one of the strongest fortresses in North England, but frequent attacks from the Scots and James IV’s heavy cannon extensively damaged the castle.

Although it was rebuilt in the 16 th century and adapted for artillery, Norham Castle subsequently fell into ruin. If you want to learn more about the castle, you can also visit the nearby St. Cuthbert’s 12th-century Norman Church.

Where: Berwick-upon-Tweed When: 12 th century Open for Visit:  Yes,  check here for more information.

FAQs about The Best Castles in Northern England

Among the best castles in Northern England are Beeston Castle in Beeston, Skipton Castle in Skipton, Lancaster Castle in Lancaster, Middleham Castle in Middleham, Raby Castle in Staindrop, Durham Castle in Durham, Dunstanburgh Castle near Craster, and Bamburg Castle in Bamburg.

There are thousands of castles spread around England. In the North of England alone, there are over 100 castles, including castles such as Lancaster Castle, Middleham Castle, Durham Castle, and Warkworth Castle.

Durham Castle, Tynemouth Priory & Castle, Warkworth Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and Bamburg Castle are the best castles in North East England.

The best castles in North West England to visit are Dunstanburgh Castle, Lancaster Castle, and Carlile Castle.

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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.

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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

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The most impressive castles in England

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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 .

Travel ideas for England, created by local experts

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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.

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Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

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A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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

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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 .

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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12 Must Visit Castles in Northumberland, England

Northumberland’s Castles are set in some of England’s most stunning countryside, guarding enters to harbours, and providing strongholds.  They look romantic and impregnable and despite the ravages of the centuries, skirmishes and an often vicious weather pattern they remain stunning to look at.  There are more than 70 castles in Northumberland, England’s most northerly county.  That there are so many is a testament to the geography of the county, on the border with Scotland and the east coast of England.  Many of Northumberland’s castles are in ruins, however, an incredible number retain their structures and are open to the public to visit.  We’ve selected 12 of the most stunning and historic Northumberland Castles that you should visit while in Northumberland.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

The Best 12 Northumberland Castles to Visit

We’ve brought you a selection of the best castles in Northumberland.  Some of quite stunning in their location and overlook, like Bamburgh Castle, overlooking the North East coast from the most majestic of viewpoints.  There are those that many will recognize, like Alnwick Castle most recently famed from the Harry Potter movies, Downton Abbey and Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves.  Northumberland’s castles have hosted Kings, kept Viking and Scottish marauders at bay and they have inspired artists.  Here are the legendary and very, very beautiful castles of Northumberland.

I have my favourite castles in Northumberland, but I’m being fair to them all and writing this in alphabetical order!

If you need to rent a car in Northumberland , we recommend Discover Cars for car hire.  You can search, compare and save up to 70%, with no hidden fees and free cancellation, what have you got to lose? Get a price for a rental car in Northumberland here.

1. Alnwick Castle Northumberland

For those outside the area, Alnwick is the most famous castle in Northumberland due to its starring role in the Harry Potter movies, Downton Abbey and Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves.  Today Alnwick Castle is the second largest castle in England (after Windsor Castle) and is still the family home of the Percy family, the Dukes of Northumberland.

A Brief History of Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle dates back to Norman times, was originally built in the 11 th century and has been the home of the Percy Family since 1309.  Alnwick Castle was originally built as border protection, it lies just 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the England – Scotland border.  There have been periods when the castle fell into disrepair and times when the castle has been home to evacuees and refugees.   Alnwick Castle is currently home to both the Percy family and students from the St Cloud State University, Minnesota, USA.  Read more about Alnwick Castle history here .

What to See At Alnwick Castle

There are LOTS of things to do at Alnwick Castle, as well as a huge number of things to see.  You’ll want to plan for the full day visiting here and pre-booking tours if you have a specific interest in the film location tours, here are our top tips of what to see and do at Alnwick Castle.

• Visit the double-level library of 14,000 books at Alnwick Castle.
• Take a stateroom tour of Alnwick Castle and see the Italian Renaissance style staterooms with elaborately carved ceilings, silk walls and a stunning private art collection.
• Take a film location tour of Alnwick Castle and visit where the flying car belonging to the Weasley Family of Harry Potter fame crashed.
• Take a broomstick training class while in Alnwick
• Visit the exhibitions of the history of Alnwick Castle’s previous residents and plotters.

Where is Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is located in the centre of the town of Alnwick.  If you’re planning on visiting Alnwick Castle, then here’s our list of the best things to see and do in Alnwick while you’re there! Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NG.

How to Get to Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is easy to reach by road, just a mile from the A1 – just follow the signposts.  The main car park is located on Denwick Lane, the B1340.  There’s a charge of £3 per vehicle for the car park for the day, and the car park is open from 1000, only cash is accepted.

If you’re visiting from Edinburgh, then there’s a fabulous trip that combines visiting Alnwick Castle and the best of Northumberland!

If you’re taking the train to Alnwick Castle, then alight off the East Coast mainline from London to Edinburgh at Alnmouth Station.  Take a taxi or a bus (the X18) from Alnmouth to Alnwick, it’s a distance of 4 miles and takes about 10 minutes. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Buses run to Alnwick from surrounding towns as well as from the Haymarket bus station in Newcastle Upon Tyne (the X15 and the 18).  Alnwick’s bus station is just 5 minutes walk from Alnwick Castle.

Alnwick Castle Opening Times

Alnwick Castle is normally open from 0900 until 1730.  State Rooms close at 1630.   Last entrance to the castle is at 1545.

Alnwick Castle Entrance Fees

Entrance prices to Alnwick Castle are £18.50 for adults and £9.75 for children.  Combined tickets to visit Alnwick Castle and the Garden cost £30.25 for adults and £13.25 for children.

2. Aydon Castle Northumberland

Aydon Castle is to be found on the outskirts of the Roman town of Corbridge.  This 13 th Century Fortified Manor House is virtually completely intact.  In its original form is was a simple Manor House, but following hostilities between the English and Scots, it was fortified and became known as a Castle.  Aydon Castle is recognised as one of the best examples of an unaltered 13 th century Manor house.

History of Aydon Castle

Aydon Castle was originally built as a manor house in the 13 th century by Huge de Raymes, a wealthy merchant from Suffolk.  Hostilities between the English and the Scots commenced not long after it was built and it was almost immediately then fortified.  However, Aydon Castle was pillaged and then burnt by the Scots in 1315, reseized by English rebels in 1317 and seized again by the Scots in 1346.  Aydon Castle is just 50 miles from the England – Scotland border.  In the 17 th century, Aydon Castle once again became a farmhouse and was lived in until 1966.  The property is now managed by English Heritage.  There’s more on the history of Aydon Castle here .

What to See At Aydon Castle

The surroundings at Aydon Castle are quite lovely, as it is positioned in secluded woodlands, be sure to take time to take a walk through them.  Be sure to see

• The manor house
• The walled orchard – it’s a great place for a picnic
• Don’t miss the 13 th century medieval carved fireplaces

Where is Aydon Castle

Aydon Castle is located off Aydon Road, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5PJ.

How to Get to Aydon Castle

Aydon Castle is located off Aydon Road, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5PJ.  Aydon Castle is 1 mile from Corbridge  There is a car park at Aydon Castle for 20 cars and parking is free for English Heritage members, there may be a charge for non-members.   The car park is 100 metres walk from the entrance to the castle.

To take the bus to Aydon Castle, take the Alba or Classic service AD122 between April and November.  Alternatively, take the bus to Corbridge and walk from there.

The closest train station to Aydon Castle is Corbridge you can walk to the castle from Corbridge Train station along a bridle path on the western side of Aydon Road, which you can access immediately to the north of Corbridge bypass. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Aydon Castle Opening Times

Aydon Castle is open every day apart from Monday and Tuesday.  The castle is open between 1000 and 1800.

Aydon Castle Entrance Fees

Aydon Castle is free to English Heritage members – che ck membership options here .   Non-members pay £5.90 for entry, £3.50 for children.

3. Bamburgh Castle Northumberland

Bamburgh Castle is found in the village of Bamburgh on the North East Coast.  It holds a stunning defensive position with glorious views over Northumberland and the coast to the Farne Islands and Holy Island.  Bamburgh Castle is a Grade I listed building that began life as a Celtic fort.  The Normans built what has become the current castle and ownership passed between various parties untilVictorian times when the castle was bought by William Armstrong, an (amongst other things) arms manufacturer.  Today Bamburgh Castle remains in the ownership of the Armstrong family.

A Brief History of Bamburgh Castle

Originally known as Din Guarie, the origins of Bamburgh Castle lie in a Celtic Fort, which may have been used to control the kingdom of Bernicia from 420 to 547.  The original fort passed between Celts and Anglo Saxons several times until 590 when it was taken by the Anglo Saxons.   It was destroyed by Vikings in 993 and the core of the current castle was built by the Normans after 1066.  Ownership of Bamburgh Castle passed to the King in 1095.  The castle changed hands several times and was bought by William Armstrong in 1894 and he began its restoration.  The Armstrong Family still own Bamburgh Castle and allow it to be opened to the public.  During the Second World War, pillboxes were built in the dunes below the castle to protect it   The castle has been a pharmacy, surgery, free school and private residence.  Bamburgh Castle features in one of the Northumberland detective novels by LJ Ross – just one of the books set in Northumberland that we recommend reading.

What to See At Bamburgh Castle

One of the most magnificent things to see at Bamburgh Castle is the view.  That’s the view from the Castle itself over the Northumberland Coast, out to Holy Island and the Farne Islands and also the view of the castle from Bamburgh Beach.  The castle is a beacon from many miles away and is especially striking at dawn or sunset from the beach. Bamburgh beach is one of Northumberland’s Best beaches, read about the others here.

There’s a lot to see at Bamburgh and we recommend arriving early ( book your tickets online here .  It’s possible to buy tickets in person on the day, but buying online saves lining up) bringing a picnic, or planning to visit the onsite tea room and spending most of the day here. It’s our top thing to do in Bamburgh .

Make time to see these highlights of Bamburgh Castle

• The Bamburgh Castle State Rooms
• The Kings Hall
• The Armoury
• The Keep at Bamburgh Castle
• The Archaeology Room
• The Armstrong Aviation Museum (you’ll need at least an hour along for this!)
• The Cross Hall
• The Library
• The Faire Chamber
• The Keep Hall
• The Battery Terrace (recommended for picnics)

Where is Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle is located at the edge of the town of Bamburgh in Northumberland, it holds a stunning location overlooking the north east coast and has views to Holy Island and the Farne Islands.  Bamburgh is in the county of Northumberland – halfway between Alnwick and Berwick upon Tweed.  The town of Bamburgh is set next to the North East Coast and is 39 miles (62 kilometres) from the closest airport, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

How to Get to Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh is accessible by local bus services, by a train to Berwick Upon Tweed or Alnwick and it is also easy to drive to Bamburgh.

To travel by car to Bamburgh take the A1 north until the B1341 junction. Bamburgh is 5 miles (8 kilometres) from the A1.  If you are travelling from the north, take the B1342 junction from the A1.  If you have more time then the B1340 coastal road provides lovely views.  Parking is available at Bamburgh Castle for £3 per car per day and this car park is a great place to leave your car to explore the rest of Bamburgh.

The closest train station to Bamburgh is Chathill, but not many trains stop at this station.  The more regular train station to use to get to Bamburgh is either Berwick or Alnmouth.  Both Berwick and Alnmouth are on the East Coast Mainline. Check train times and buy tickets here.

In summer there are hourly local buses that go from Newcastle to Berwick.  The best planner to use in order to travel by bus to Bamburgh is here.

Bamburgh Castle Opening Times

Bamburgh Castle is open every day.  The castle is open between 1000 and 1700, last entry is at 1600.

Bamburgh Castle Entrance Fees

Entry to Bamburgh Castle costs  £11.75 for Adults and £5.75 for Children (aged 5-18).  A family day pass for 2 adults and up to 3 children costs £29.95. Bamburgh Castle is operating a cashless system for entry tickets at this time.  You can prebook your Bamburgh Castle tickets here and get a 5% discount.

Looking for other things to do in Northumberland?  Here’s our top 10 of the best of Northumberland.

4. Belsay Hall and Belsay Castle, Northumberland

You’re in for a treat if you visit Belsay Hall as you’ll get a medieval castle and a regency-style country house at the location.  Belsay Castle was built in the 14th century and comes complete with a rectangular pele tower with later additions, but the entire structure was largely abandoned in the early 19th century when Belsay Hall was built as a residence.  Belsay Hall is a regency-style country house in Northumberland.  Both Belsay Hall and Belsay Castle are managed today by English Heritage and you can visit both on the same ticket (members get in for free).

History of Belsay Castle

Belsay Castle was built in the 14 th century and is a three-storey pele tower with rounded turrets.  A manor house was added in 1614 and a further west wing in 1711, but much of this was demolished in 1872.  The Castle was largely abandoned as a residence when Belsay Hall was built from 1810 to 1817.  Both Belsay Hall and Belsay Castle are Grade I listed buildings.

Belsay Hall is the first Greek Revival style building to be built in the country.  It replaces the original Belsay Castle as a residence on the property.  Belsay Hall was built for Sir Charles Monck (who was at the time residing at Belsay Castle), with a finely dressed stone known as Ashlar and finished with a Lakeland slate roof.  From the outside it looks as though the hall has two stories, although there are actually three stories – the third being a level for servants in the roof.

Both properties are maintained by English Heritage (free entry to members) and set within stunning grounds which are maintained superbly.  The house is maintained more or less in a state of arrested decay after the house was badly affected by dry rot in the 1970’s – the building has been secured against the elements to protect the style of the architecture with only necessary structural maintenance undertaken.  It is however still a stunning building.

Belsay Hall Gardens are in themselves a Grade I listed property and are beautiful – a mixture of formal and natural gardens, through which a walk is essential – we love the Quarry Garden on the walking route to Belsay Castle!

What to See At Belsay Castle

There are lots of things to see at Belsay Hall and Belsay Castle.  Be sure to allow plenty of time to visit and try and pick a nice day as the gardens here are truly glorious.

• Belsay Hall Gardens are stunning, The gift shop will provide you with a map of the walking route through the gardens with explanatory notes on each element.
• Visit the exterior of Belsay Hall. It’s the architecture that’s interesting here – as well as understanding the issues that the dry rot of the 1970s caused.  Check when and if the interior of Belsay Hall will be open.
• Walk to Belsay Castle and explore the exterior of the original medieval castle.

Where is Belsay Castle

Belsay Castle and Hall is located in the village of Belsay, Northumberland, 14 miles from Newcastle Upon Tyne.

How to Get to Belsay Castle

It is difficult to get to Belsay Castle by public transport.  The closest train station is Morpeth, which is about 10 miles from Belsay.  To drive to Belsay Castle take the A696 North West from Newcastle Upon Tyne.  Free parking is available for visitors.

Belsay Castle Opening Times

Belsay Hall and castle can be visited by timed appointment with English Heritage.  You can book your tickets here – members get access for free but still need to book tickets.

Belsay Castle Entrance Fees

Entry to Belsay Castle costs £10 for adults and £6 for children (5-15 years).  Family tickets cost from £16.  Membership to English Heritage is quick and easy and members get in for free to this and hundreds of other historic buildings and properties in England.  Join now and save!

5. Berwick Castle Northumberland

Berwick Castle is the most northerly of the castles of Northumberland.  It was built in the 12 th century by the Scottish King David, the English King Edward rebuilt it in 1296 and then it was returned to Scotland.  From this early history, it’s easy to understand that the castle is located on the border with Scotland!   The castle has also been sold – by the English to the Scottish to raise funds for the Third Crusade.  There is little that remains of the castle today, it has been in decline since the 16 th century.  Stones from the castle have been used in the Holy Trinity Church and part of the Great Hall was demolished to create Berwick Railway Station – which you should visit to see a plaque detailing where King Edward took oaths of allegiance from Scottish nobles in 1296.  Check out other things to do in Berwick with our guide here.

History of Berwick Castle

Berwick Castle is unique amongst the castles in our top Northumberland Castles.  It was the only castle built originally by the Scots rather than the English.  In 1296 the English King Edward I rebuilt the castle, fortified the town of Berwick Upon Tweed and the castle was then returned to the Scots.  The castle changed hands – between the Scots and the English many, many times over the centuries, and the castle fell into disrepair and ruin from around 1590 onwards.  The primary remaining part of the castle itself is that of the White Wall – and a set of steep stairs known as the Breakneck Stairs.  The castle is maintained by English Heritage and entry is free.

What to See At Berwick Castle

It’s worth taking time to see the plaque at the Railway station in Berwick as we’ve mentioned and we recommend seeing the following

• Walk a full circuit of the ramparts – there are interpretation boards which explain the defences and history.
• Access the ramparts at the Berwick Upon Tweed Barracks – they’re well worth a visit in themselves and are also managed by English Heritage. (Entry is free for members – join here )

Where is Berwick Castle

Berwick Castle is next to the Berwick railway station and the ramparts are accessible at various points in the town.

How to Get to Berwick Castle

Follow directions to Berwick Upon Tweed Railways Station.

Berwick Castle Opening Times

Berwick Castle is open 24 hours a day.  We caution against visiting at dusk as the ground can be uneven.

Berwick Castle Entrance Fees

Entrance to Berwick Castle and the ramparts at Berwick is free.

6. Chillingham Castle Northumberland

Located in the village of Chillingham in Northumberland Chillingham Castle dates from medieval times.  Chillingham Castle is a Grade I listed building and is the home of Sir Edward Humphry Tyrell Wakefield, who married into the Grey family, who have held the castle since the 15 th century.  The Castle remains in private ownership and visiting includes access to the grounds which are home to a rare breed of white cattle, the Chillingham cattle.

History of Chillingham Castle

The medieval Chillingham Castle was built in the 12 th century and was fully fortified in 1344 when a “license to crenellate” was issued by the English king (so battlements were added at this point).  Chillingham was used often as a staging post for battles with the Scots, but as times changed and relations between the Scots and the English became more peaceful the use of the castle changed.  The moat was filled in, the battlements were converted to residential use, a library and banquet hall was built and the grounds were landscaped. The garden here is truly magnificent and it’s included in our guide to Northumberland’s Best Gardens.

During World War II Chillingham Castle was used as an army barracks and following the war the castle fell into disrepair until it was purchased by Sir Humphrey Wakefield in 1982.  Areas of the Castle are now open to the public and there are also holiday rentals available here too, so yes you can stay in parts of the castle .

What to See At Chillingham Castle

Visit Chillingham Castle’s gardens, grounds and woodland walks, which are open all year.  The design of the garden dates from 1828.

Inside Chillingham Castle, there are a huge range of things to see – from the dungeons to the armoury, the torture chamber to rooms designed as they were in the 13 th century.  The highlights of Chillingham Castle are:we

• The Still Room
• The Great Hall
• The Roof Garden Lookout
• The Edward I Room
• The King James I Room
• The Plaque Room Library
• The Minstrel’s Hall

Where is Chillingham Castle

Chillingham Castle is in the village of Chillingham.  Chillingham Village is 3.7 miles east of Wooler.

How to Get to Chillingham Castle

Chillingham Castle is signposted from the A1 and is best reached by taking the Chatton/Wooler road, just north of the Purdy Lodge – Bamburgh junction.

Chillingham Castle Opening Times

Chillingham Castle is open from 25 th July until 1 st November.  The castle is open from 12 noon until 1700.  Prebooking entrance is not necessary.

Chillingham Castle Entrance Fees

Ticket prices to Chillingham Castle are £10.50 for adults, £6.50 for children under 16.  Family tickets for 2 adults and up to 3 children cost £26.00.

7. Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland

Dunstanburgh Castle was built in the 14 th century as a fortification on the Northumberland Coast by the Earl of Lancaster primarily as a statement of wealth and influence.  It is a unique property in that the castle is built on land managed by the National Trust but the ruins themselves are managed by English Heritage.  This means, happily, that members of both organizations get in for free.  Dunstanburgh Castle played a key role in the Wars of the Roses and was maintained until the 15 th century.  It was reported from the 16 th century that it had fallen into decay.  Today little remains, several towers, and the outline of the castle provides for an excellent walk on the Northumberland Coast from the villages of Craster and Embleton.

History of Dunstanburgh Castle

There was originally an Iron Age fort on the site that Dunstanburgh Castle now occupies, although the current castle is the remains of a 14 th -century building.  Built by the Earl of Lancaster it’s likely that he only ever visited once – he was opposed to King Edward II, ended up being captured at the Battle of Boroughbridge and was then executed and Dunstanburgh Castle passed to the Crown and then into the ownership of the Duchy of Lancaster.

While the castle was maintained and even reinforced up until the 15 th century, as it was a strategic stronghold during the Wars of the Roses, it fell into disrepair by the 16th century.  As relations between the Scots and the English became more peaceful Dunstanburgh Castle was sold.  The Grey Family owned it for a few centuries, as it became increasingly ruined and it passed into the ownership of the state.  During World War II Dunstanburgh Castle was used as an observation post.  Today the castle is owned by the National Trust and managed by English Heritage, which means that members of both organizations get in for free.

What to See At Dunstanburgh Castle

One of the best things to see at Dunstanburgh Castle is the coastal walk to get there.  The castle is only accessible by footpath from the nearby villages of Craster or Embleton.  Most visit from Craster.  The trail is easy and the terrain is flat, but not particularly even.  The twin-towered keep is a magnificent entrance to the castle and affords excellent views from the top.  There are composting toilets at Dunstanburgh Castle, but no facilities apart from a very small gift shop.  Buy drinks and food in the village at Craster, including the famous smoked kippers.

Where is Dunstanburgh Castle

Dunstanburgh Castle can be found at Dunstanburgh Road, Craster, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 3TT.

How to Get to Dunstanburgh Castle

Dunstanburgh Castle is found 8 miles north-east of Alnwick and on footpaths from Craster or Embleton.Park in the Council Car Park in Craster (chargeable, take coins).  Buses to Dunstanburgh are the Arriva service X18 Travelsure 418. Take the bus to Craster and take the coast walk for 1.3 miles. The nearest train stations to Dunstanburgh are Chathill, not Sunday, 5 miles from Embleton, 7 miles from Castle; Alnmouth, 7 miles from Craster, 8 1⁄4 miles from Castle. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Dunstanburgh Castle Opening Times

Dunstanburgh Castle entrances MUST be pre-booked. You can do this here. 

Dunstanburgh Castle Entrance Fees

Entry to Dunstanburgh Castle costs £5.90 for adults and £3.50 for children up to the age of 17.  Family tickets from £15.30.  English Heritage members get access for free – join here. National Trust members also get free entry to Dunstanburgh Castle – join the National Trust here.

8. Etal Castle Northumberland

Etal Castle Northumberland was built about 1341 by Robert Manners.  It originally comprised a gatehouse, a corner tower, and a residential tower protected by a curtain wall.  Etal Castle has a long history of being involved in the border wars of Scotland and England.  It became part of the border defences in 1547 but then was abandoned as a military fortification in 1603.  Etal was used as a domestic dwelling until the 18 th century and then fell into ruin.  Today, Etal Castle is owned by the Joicey family but is managed by English Heritage.

A Brief History of Etal Castle

Although the Manners family had owned the manor in Etal since 1232 a license to crenellate – or fortify was not granted until 1341 when Robert Manners began to build defences against the threat from Scotland.  The oldest part of the structure of Etal Castle was the residential tower and by 1350 the tower was surrounded by a manor, mills, lime kilns and coal mines.  In the 16 th century, the Manners family moved away and left the castle in the stewardship of the Collingwood family.   1513 saw King James I of Scotland taking the castle, and its restoration to the English following the Battle of Flodden the following month.  Over the next 30 years, the castle fell into ruin and was purchased by the English Crown in 1547.  By the time King James VI of Scotland inherited the English crown in 1603 the castle had lost military value and became a private residence.  By the 18 th century, it ceased to be a residence and was simply a picturesque ruin.  Today Etal Castle is managed by English Heritage and is a Grade I listed monument.

What to See At Etal Castle

You’ll gain the most from visiting the exhibition here that details the Battle of Flodden (before you visit Flodden) – the grounds of Etal Castle are a pleasant place to have a picnic too.

Where is Etal Castle

Etal Castle is in the village of Etal, Northumberland, which is 10 miles south-west of Berwick.

How to Get to Etal Castle

Follow signs from Berwick, or drive to the village of Etal Northumberland.  There is parking at the entrance. The closest train station to Etal is Berwick, which is 10 miles away.  Bus services are run by Glen Valley/Perrymans – the service number 267 Berwick-upon-Tweed – Wooler. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Etal Castle Opening Times

Etal Castle is open from Wednesday to Sunday, but visiting times must be pre-booked here.

Etal Castle Entrance Fees

Entry to Etal Castle is free to English Heritage Members ( Join here now ).  Entry charges for non-members are £5.90 for adults, £3.50 for Children, family tickets from £15.30.

9. Lindisfarne Castle Northumberland

Lindisfarne Castle not only was a defence in the border wars between England and Scotland but also came under attack from the Vikings too!  The castle, which is managed by the National Trust is found on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne off the Northumberland Coast.  The castle has changed hands many times over the years, been sketched by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and then came into the private ownership of a published magnate in 1901, Edward Hudson, who then commission the architect Edward Lutyens to redesign the castle as a private residence.  Famous garden designer Gertrude Jekyll designed the walled garden.

History of Lindisfarne Castle

Lindisfarne Castle was built in 1550 as a defence of the island against the Scots and the Vikings.  Many of the stones used in the construction of the castle came from the recently ruined Lindisfarne Priory.  A fort built below the castle on Beblowe Crag between the years 1570 and 1572 forms the basis of the current castle.  In a similar fashion to that of Etal Castle, when King James unified the thrones of Scotland and England the requirement for Lindisfarne Castle as a military stronghold declined.  Lindisfarne Castle was occupied for a few days in the 18 th century by Jacobite rebels.  The castle has been used as a coastguard lookout and a tourist attraction until it was bought by Edward Hudson in 1901.  Architect Edward Lutyens redesigned the castle as a private residence alongside Gertrude Jeykll in the gardens.  The National Trust has managed Lindisfarne Castle since 1944 along with the gardens and the nearby Lime Kilns.

What to See At Lindisfarne Castle

When the interior of Lindisfarne Castle is open there are unparalleled views from the higher points of the castle and the interior contains exhibits relating to the history of the castle and its uses over the centuries.

Lindisfarne Castle may be currently closed, but you can still visit Holy Island itself, explore what else to do on Holy Island in our guide here.

Where is Lindisfarne Castle

Lindisfarne Castle is located on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.  The castle is a 15-minute walk from the village and the entranceway into the castle is steep.

How to Get to Lindisfarne Castle

The easiest way to get to Lindisfarne Castle is to drive.  Take the A1 to the Beal crossroads – 8 miles south of Berwick upon Tweed.  This crossroads is near to the  Lindisfarne Inn  (a good option to stay if you don’t want to stay on Holy Island) and is signed for Holy Island.  The causeway is approximately 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometres) from the crossroads.  The causeway itself is one mile long (1.6 kilometres) and parking for Holy Island, on the island is 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometres) from the end of the causeway.  We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to check the  Holy Island Tides

Parking on Holy Island

As most people visit Holy island by car, Holy Island parking can become full. Day visitors to Holy Island also all have to access via the causeway and so that also causes some congestion.  A daily parking ticket bought here can also be used in Berwick, Wooler and Seahouses.   There is a minibus that goes from this car park to the castle, which is about one mile away.

Parking costs on Holy Island are as follows:

• 3 hours £3.50
• 24 hours £5.50
• 48 hours £11
• 72 hours £16.50

If you’re planning to visit Holy Island by bus then you’ll need the 505 or 515 services that run between Newcastle Upon Tyne and Berwick Upon Tweed.  They stop at Beal crossroads on request – so ask the driver then you get on.  From Beal crossroads, it’s a 4.8 mile (7.7 kilometres) walk to the village on Holy Island, including crossing the causeway which is a mile long (1.6 kilometres).  The local  477 bus route  runs from Berwick Upon Tweed station during the summer, but you must check the timetables.  There is also a Holy Island Shuttle Bus that runs to Holy Island, this is run by a local taxi company and again, please check, it is an intermittent service and depends upon demand.  There are details  here , but it’s best to call them to find our details for when you plan to visit.

Lindisfarne Castle Opening Times

Normally, National Trust Lindisfarne Castle opening times vary depending on the tides and are usually either 1000 until 1500 or 1200 until 1700, you can check opening times  here .

Lindisfarne Castle Entrance Fees

Entrance fees to Lindisfarne Castle are normally £9 for Adults and £4.50 for Children.  Family tickets cost £22.50. National Trust Members are free.

10. Norham Castle Northumberland

Blink and you might miss Norham Castle – or rather you have to go out of your way to find it, but it’s a glorious surprise all the same.  Managed by English Heritage, but free to enter for all it’s well worth downloading the free to download audio guide of the castle.  Norham Castle is situated on the River Tweed and on the border of England and Scotland.  It was founded in 1121 to protect the bishopric of Northumberland from the Scots.  King David I of Scotland captured it in 1136 and so began a rather unstable period when the castle passed between conquerors.  There’s little left today, but ruined walls and the hint of history, but it is atmospheric all the same and you’ll likely see few visitors here.  The audio guide is well worth downloading, and so is visiting on a good weather day!

History of Norham Castle

Once one of the most important border strongholds Norham Castle is set on a high grassy mound overlooking a ford over the River Tweed.  Its history includes many attacks by the Scots, it has been besieged 13 times, once by Robert the Bruce for almost a year!

The best history of Norham Castle is understood as you are walking around.  We recommend downloading the audio tour – it’s free – from English Heritage before you get to the Castle.  The total tour lasts around 20 minutes and can be paused.

What to See At Norham Castle

Walk around Norham Castle to the accompaniment of the free audio guide from English Heritage and you’ll see history come to life at Norham.  The setting of the castle above the River Tweed is nowadays idyllic, but it’s easy to picture the fierce history that this important border castle once had.

Where is Norham Castle

Northam Castle is found in Norham Village, 6 miles south of Berwick Upon Tweed.  Take the A698, then the B640 and follow the signposts.

How to Get to Norham Castle

It is easiest to drive to Norham Castle, take the A698 from Berwick Upon Tweed and follow the signs to the B6470 towards Norham.  The closest train station to Norham Castle is Berwick Upon Tweed.  Buses run from Berwick Upon Tweed railway station to Galashiels, get off at Norham.  Car parking is signposted at the castle. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Norham Castle Opening Times

Norham Castle opening times differ depending on the time of year (gates are locked when it is closed).  But usually, Norham Castle is open 1000 until 1700 from Thursday until Sunday inclusive.

Norham Castle Entrance Fees

Entrance to Norham Castle is free.

11. Prudhoe Castle, Northumberland

Prudhoe Castle is located on the northern bank of the River Tyne in Northumberland.  The first castle here was a motte and bailey type and dates from the middle of the 11 th century.  The history of the castle has been dominated by two families, the Umfravilles who were granted the barony of the area by Henry I and then, when the last of the Umfraville line died out, the Percys.  A glorious entry to Prudhoe Castle takes you past a millpond and through a gatehouse.  The inner wards of the castle are surprisingly intact and rather lovely to explore.

History of Prudhoe Castle

Prudhoe Castle was originally built as one of a series of castles by the Normans following the 1066 Norman Conquest of England and the castle was continuously occupied for more than 900 years.  It’s been home to the Umfraville and Percy families and is the only castle in Northumberland not to fall to the Scots.

While the first castle here at Prudhoe has been shown to be a motte and bailey construct from the 11 th century, the stone castle was likely built in the 12 th century.  It was during the ownership of the castle by the Percy family (the widow of the last Umfraville married Henry Percy, the first earl of Northumberland), that they added a great hall to the castle.  The principal seat of the Percys was Alnwick Castle and Prudhoe was likely rented out to tenants.  It wasn’t used as a residence after the 1660s and is reported to have been in a “ruinous state” in 1776.  The Percys carried out major repairs between 1808 and 1817 and it was at this time that the Georgian Mansion replaces the old buildings inside the walls.  In 1966 the Castle was given to the Crown and is now managed by English Heritage.

What to See At Prudhoe Castle

Prudhoe Castle is a great place to take a picnic.  There are many sheltered spots within the walls to take a break.  Be sure not to miss

• The Prudhoe Castle Keep
• The Great Hall at Prudhoe Castle
• The Georgian Mansion inside Prudhoe Castle

Where is Prudhoe Castle

Prudhoe Castle is in Prudhoe, take the A695 and then a minor signposted road to the castle.

How to Get to Prudhoe Castle

Follow directions to Prudhoe and take the minor road signposted for Prudhoe Castle.  Free car parking is available just 70 metres from the castle entrance.  The closest train station to Prudhoe Castle is Prudhoe, less than a quarter of a mile away.    Go North East buses 10, 11A, 686 all go to Prudhoe. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Prudhoe Castle Opening Times

Y ou can check times to enter Prudhoe Castle here

Prudhoe Castle Entrance Fees

English Heritage Members get free entrance to Prudhoe Castle ( you can join here ), non-members prices for entry are adults £6.90, children £4.10.  Family tickets cost £17.90.

12.Warkworth Castle Northumberland

Warkworth Castle is located in the glorious village of Warkworth in Northumberland.  Both the castle and the village are found in a loop in the River Coquet which meanders its way to the North Sea close by.  The castle has remains from the 13 th century, a gatehouse from the 15 th century and really is a rather magnificent ruin, with some well-maintained areas.  There are four towers in a rather irregular design and the castle is built on top of a mound (motte).

History of Warkworth Castle

First documented in a charter from 1157-1164, Warkworth Castle was originally a timber castle that was considered “feeble”.  It was improved upon and the remains seen today date from the 13 th and 15 th centuries.  The keep was added in the late 14 th century and when the last Percy early died in 1670 the castle went to Hugh Smithson, who married into an indirect line of the Percy family.  He then adopted the Percy name and founded the Dukes of Northumberland, whose line the castle then descended to today.  The castle was refurbished in the 19 th century and has been managed by English Heritage since 1984.

What to See At Warkworth Castle

The Castle Walls at Warkworth Castle offer stunning views over the River Coquet and over the Northumberland Coast.  Don’t miss the various rooms in the cross-shaped keep.  When open be sure to visit the Hermitage, a short walk and boat ride away from the castle (separate entrance fees apply, and it’s also free to English Heritage members ).  Pick up the audio tour to understand more about Warkworth Castle and its history and don’t miss

• The Cross-Shaped Keep – built more than 600 years ago.
• Spot the often carved lion badge – the emblem of the Percy family throughout the Castle.
• Visit the Duke’s Rooms (if open) – restored by the Percys in the 1850s- some of the gold patterned leather that once lined the walls still remains.
• Visit the Hermitage when open and see this private chapel for the Percy Family, a lovely walk up the river, and then a free boat ride across.

Where is Warkworth Castle

Warkworth Castle is on the outskirts of the village of Warkworth, which is 7.5 miles south of Alnwick.

How to Get to Warkworth Castle

Take the A1068 from Alnwick southbound.  Parking is available at the castle itself.  Parking is free for members although charges may apply for non-members.  There is additional parking at the beach in Warkworth.  The closest train station to Warkworth Castle is Alnmouth, which is 3.5 miles away – and which is a lovely walk – it’s part of the Northumberland Coastal Walk.  Warkworth Castle is served by the Arriva X18 bus between Newcastle and Alnwick & the Travelsure 472 bus. Check train times and buy tickets here.

Warkworth Castle Opening Times

Warkworth Castle is open, although areas of the keep may be closed off.  The Castle is open from 1000 until 1700. 

Warkworth Castle Entrance Fees

Adult entry fees to Warkworth Castle are £7.90, Children’s entry fees are £4.70 and family tickets are available from £12.60.  English Heritage Members get free entry to Warkworth Castle – you can join here.

Map of Northumberland Castles

You can also see the Northumberland Castles map here.

TRAVEL NORTHUMBERLAND ESSENTIALS These are the resources and booking sites that we use when we’re exploring Northumberland. BOOKS ABOUT NORTHUMBERLAND – Read about Northumberland in these incredible books BOOK BUSES & TRAINS to and from Northumberland with Omio RENT A CAR in Northumberland with Discover Cars ACCOMMODATION IN NORTHUMBERLAND : Book holiday cottages with Sykes Cottages & Holiday Cottages Find a glorious Northumberland Hotel or B&B with Booking.com Explore Northumberland’s Hostels with the YHA JOIN ENGLISH HERITAGE and explore Northumberland’s Castles & More WALK NORTHUMBERLAND with the Ordnance Survey App and maps BOOK ATTRACTIONS & NORTHUMBERLAND TOURS Use GetYourGuide for great Northumberland Attractions

Final words on the 12 most magnificent castles to visit in Northumberland

From a castle on an island in the North Sea to castles perched on the edge of some of England’s most stunning countryside, Northumberland has more castles than any other county in England.  The castles of England’s most northerly county, Northumberland are quite simply magnificent, and have some incredible histories within their walls, and your challenge will not be just to visit them once but to not want to return time after time.

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Sarah Carter

One thought on “ 12 must visit castles in northumberland, england ”.

• 1 Comment

Warkworth was always my personal favourite.

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The Best Castles in the North York Moors National Park

The North York Moors National Park is a beautiful and diverse area in the northeast of England. It covers over 1,430 square kilometers and is known for its stunning landscapes, like mountains and forests, and its rich history with castles and stately homes.

The North York Moors National Park castles range from Norman buildings to Royal residences and beautiful historic houses filled with fine artwork, furniture, and collection. And you can also find award-winning castle gardens in the North York Moors National Park.

If you’re looking for inspiring historic castles in a beautiful natural setting, then you should take a trip to the North York Moors National Park and visit these beautiful castles in Yorkshire.

16 Beautiful Castles In the North York Moors National Park

Castle Howard

Castle Howard in North Yorkshire is one of England’s finest stately homes. Despite the name, Castle Howard is not a castle but a house. However, it is located on the site of a former castle and, therefore, can still use the name.

The castle was built between 1701 and 1811 after a design of John Vanbrugh. The Long Gallery was the last part of the house to be completed. Due to the long building period, the house has an unusual architecture. A Baroque wing flanks the central block of the house on one side, and a Palladian wing on the other side.

Castle Howard is famous for being used as the fictional “Brideshead” in the 1981 and 2008 adaptations of Brideshead Revisited.

The Howard family company, Castle Howard Estate Limited, now owns Castle Howard. It is managed by the Hon. Nicholas Howard and his wife, Victoria.

Visitor information: The castle is open to visitors. Visit the website for opening times.

Pickering Castle

Pickering Castle is a 13 th century castle in the heart of the North York Moors National Park. The original castle was built by the Normans , this wooden structure was later turned into the stone castle we see today.

The castle has been a royal hunting lodge, a holiday home, and a stud farm by several medieval kings. Pickering Castle is special because it is one of few castles that was largely unaffected by the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War.   

Visitor information: the castle is owned by English Heritage and is open to the public. Visit the website for more information.

Ormesby Hall

Ormesby Hall is a Palladian-style manor house in Middlesbrough. The house was built in 1754, but the estate had been owned by the Pennyman family since 1600. The interiors of the Georgian manor house, with its plasterwork, paintings,  furniture, and Victorian kitchen, tell the story of the Pennyman family. In the house, you will also find model railway layouts.

Ormesby Hall is surrounded by 240 acres of parkland and farmland that offer seasonal walks as well as a Victorian formal garden.

Visitor information: Ormesby Hall is owned by the National Trust. Visit the website for opening times.   

Scarborough Castle

A visit to Scarborough Castle means stepping into 3,000 years of history. The 12 th century castle is located on the site of an Iron Age settlement and later a Roman signal station. The castle, overlooking the North Sea, has endured attacks from Vikings, medieval barons, Tudor rebels, and a Parliamentary army during the Civil War.

The castle ruins on the Yorkshire coast still show the long curtain wall with many towers and you can also climb the viewing platforms in the Inner Bailey and the 12 th century tower.

The castle hosts several events throughout the year and it’s a great destination for a family day out.

Visitor information: the castle is owned by English Heritage. Visit the website for opening times.

Scampston Hall         

Scampston Hall is a Regency style manor house in North Yorkshire. The house was originally built in the 1600s, and between 1795 and 1801, the owner William Thomas, asked Thomas Leverton to remodel the house in Regency style.

Scampston Hall is one of the finest Regency country houses in Yorkshire. It contains fine works of art, furniture, and porcelain. On the estate, you can also find the award-winning Walled Garden. The contemporary garden was designed by the Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf.  

Visitor information: The hall is still a family home, but it is open to visitors through guided tours in the summer months. The gardens and parkland are open from March to November. Visit the website for opening times.

Sutton Park

Sutton Park is a Georgian manor house near the North York Moors National Park. The house was built in 1750 and features fine interiors known for its plasterwork and a Chinese drawing room with elaborate 18 th century wallpaper. The art collection at Sutton Park comes from Normanby Hall and the old master paintings and furniture came from Buckingham House (which would later become Buckingham Palace).

The award-winning terraced gardens were designed in Italianate style by Percy Cane and Mrs. Sheffield in the  20 th century. The grounds include ancient trees, a rare period ice house, a wildflower walled garden, and an orchard.

Visitor information: The house and gardens are open on selected days. Visit the website for more information.

Nunnington Hall

Nunnington Hall is a Yorkshire country house located in a picturesque location on the banks of the River Rye.  The oldest part of the house date back to the 16 th century. The period rooms tell the story of the house, and it also hosts a program of changing exhibitions. In the attic, you will find one of the world’s finest collection of miniature rooms.

The grounds include an organic walled garden with spring flowering meadows and resident peacocks.

Visitor information: the house is owned by the National Trust. Visit the website for the opening times.

Newburgh Priory Estate

Newburgh Priory Estate is a Tudor manor house on the edge of the Howardian Hills, in North Yorkshire. The house is built on the site of an Augustinian Priory. Since 1825, the house has been owned by the Wombwell family.

The historic house, with links to Oliver Cromwell, is open to the public. As well as the ground with a water garden, a hand-crafted topiary, a walled garden, and woodland walks.   

Visitor information: the house and gardens are open on selected days in April, May, and June. Visit the website for more information.  

Duncombe Park

Duncombe Park is an early 18 th century country house and estate in North Yorkshire that the Duncombe family has owned since its construction. The house was remodeled in 1843 by Sir Charles Barry, but thirty years later, it was gutted by a fire. The house was rebuilt in its original style.

Duncombe Park was used as the fictional “Groby Hall” in the television series Parade’s End featuring Benedict Cumberbatch and Rebecca Hall.

Visitor information: The house is not open to visitors. But the parkland and gardens are open some months of the year. Visit the website for opening times.     

Helmsley Castle

Helmsley Castle is a medieval castle in the North York Moors National Park. The original castle was built in wood on a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Rye. Over the centuries, the castle transformed from a medieval fortress to a Tudor mansion, to a Civil War stronghold and later a romantic Victorian castle ruin.

Beningbrough Hall

Beningbrough Hall is a Georgian manor house overlooking the River Ouse. The house was built in 1716 by John Bourchier III. The house became neglected, but in 1916, Enid Scudamore-Stanhope, Countess of Chesterfield, bought the house and set on restoring it with furniture and paintings from Holme Lacy, her ancestral home.

The house is now owned by the National Trust. On the ground floor the collection tells the story of the country house and those who lived here. The Reddihough Galleries on the first floor show changing exhibitions of contemporary and traditional artwork in partnership with the National Portrait Gallery.

Surrounding the house is an 8-acre formal garden. They are also working on a new garden design, the new Mediterranean Garden, by award-winning garden designer Andy Sturgeon.

Visitor information: the house and garden s open to the public. Visit the website for more information.

Skelton Castle

Skelton Castle in Yorkshire was a medieval castle that was built by Robert de Brus in 1140. In 1265, the castle was surrendered to King Henry III after which it was owned by several families. In the 18 th century, the medieval castle was demolished and instead, a Gothic style country house was built by John Wharton. The Castle is still owned by the Wharton family.

Wilton Castle

Wilton Castle is an early 19 th century manor house built on a medieval castle site. The original castle was built in the 11 th century and it was owned by several noble families in the following centuries. By 1805, the castle had fallen into a ruinous state, and a new Gothic mansion house, designed by Sir Robert Smirke,  was built in its place. In the 20 th century, the castle was converted into apartments.  

Whorlton Castle

Near the abandoned village of Whorlton stands the ruined medieval Whortlon Castle. The castle was built in a strategic location overlooking a road on the western edge of the North York Moors. Whorlton Castle was built in the 12 th century as a Norman motte and bailey castle. Unlike most castles from this period, Whorlton Castle remained in use through the Middle Ages.

Not much remains of the original castle, apart from some cellars or undercrofts. But the ruined 14 th century gatehouse is still visible.  

Mulgrave Castle

The term “Mulgrave Castle” can refer to three buildings on a historic property in Lythe, near Whitby. According to legend, the first Mulgrave Castle was built by Wada, a 6 th century ruler of Hälsingland in Sweden. The second castle was built by the Normans and was used until it was destroyed in 1647.

The third castle is the current castellated mansion that was built by Lady Catherine Sheffield, Duchess of Buckingham and Normanby, the illegitimate daughter of King James II. Duleep Singh, the last Maharajah of the Punjab, also lived in the castle.

In 2003, supermodel Elle Macpherson leased the castle. And since 2010, the property has been owned by Constantine Phipps, 5 th Marquess of Normanby. Mulgrave is one of England’s finest shooting estates.

Visitor information: the castle is not open to visitors. But the surrounding woodlands can be enjoyed by everyone.

Sheriff Hutton Castle

Sheriff Hutton Castle is a ruined 14 th century castle that was once one of the finest castles in Northern England. The stone fortress was once a favorite residence of King Richard III and King Henry VIII.

The castle is now used as a private event venue and can be booked for weddings.

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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.

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28 Best Castles In England To Visit

Are you a castle lover heading to England? Here’s my guide to the 28 best castles in England to put on your bucket list.

I must admit I’m a little obsessed with castles, and England is the perfect place for castle stalking. The country is blessed with scores of fairytale castles, both massive and petite.

Many of these English castles are UNESCO World Heritages sites or heritage monuments. They come complete with intriguing backstories, having set the stage for family feuds and pivotal events in British history.

Some of these English castles are in ruins. Others are well preserved medieval edifices. All of them boast picturesque settings — clinging to cliffs, rocky outcrops, or set amid shimmering moats.

On a visit to these amazing castles in England, you’ll step back in time and have a royal day out. Many of these castles make great day trips from London .

History Of Best Castles In England

Castle building in England began in earnest after the Norman Conquest in 1066. William the Conqueror used them both for defense and as a symbol of Norman power.

The first castles were wooden “motte and bailey” designs. This meant a wooden keep was built on a raised mound (the motte) with an enclosed courtyard (the bailey). The “keep” was the center and most fortified part of the castle.

Soon enough, wooden castles gave way to stone castles with elaborate gatehouses, towers, and curtain walls. Towers were of supreme importance. They were used to fire weapons, sling arrows, or pour boiling liquids down on the invading enemy through “murder holes.”

Some castles fell into ruins. Sometimes they remained in ruins because their strategic value had diminished or because the owners couldn’t afford to rebuild them.

In the Tudor era, comfort became more important than defense and castles were given less fearsome facades. Many castles became royal property with lavish interiors more akin to palaces.

Long after these castles in England ceased to have a practical defensive function, they were often kept by their owners for sentimental or historic reasons. Some, like Windsor Castle , are still in use.

Despite their sometimes violent past, many of these English castles are the epitome of romance.

If you are not a resident in England and want to visit several castles, you may benefit from buying an  English Heritage Pass for Overseas Visitors . This pass is valid at over 100 properties and is available for 9 or 16 days.

Best Castles In England To Visit

Here are my picks for the 28 best castles in England. I’ve put them in alphabetical order for ease of reference. So cue up your dreamy sighs and let’s explore some amazing English castles.

1. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Alnwick is one of the best known castles in England. It’s popular partly for its fame as a Harry Potter filming location.

Alnwick is the seat of the Dukes of Northumberland and is England’s second largest inhabited castle (after Windsor).

The de Veschy family began building the castle in the 12th century. It was one of the first castles without a square keep. When the family line died out, the Percy family claimed the castle.

The first Percy transformed the defensive castle into an even more formidable stronghold and palatial residence. He and his son built the massive towers on each side of the keep’s entrance.

The Percys were intertwined with important events in British history. Hotspur Percy helped Henry Bolingbrook ascend to the throne as Henry IV and became guardian of his son, a young Henry V.

Alnwick Castle also has a spectacular garden renovated by the current duchess. It’s home to over 4,000 species of plants, orchards, pathways, ponds, and the Grand Cascade fountain.

Alnwick Castle starred as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the 2001 film Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and the 2002 film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets . The Outer Bailey is where Harry learned to fly a broomstick.

You can visit Alnwick Castle on a guided day trip from Edinburgh .

2. Arundel Castle, West Sussex

The town of Arundel is home to one of the best medieval castles in England.  Arundel Castle  is 1,000 years old.

For centuries, it was the seat of the Earls of Arundel. Since Richard III’s reign, it’s been the Duke of Norfolk’s principal home.

The castle fell into ruin in the mid 17th century after the English Civil War between parliamentarians and royalists. It was later rescued and restored in the 18th and 19th centuries. 

The castle follows much the same plan as Windsor Castle. It has a central moat and two baileys to the north and south, curtained with thick walls. 

While, it looks medieval, Arundel was actually restored in a Norman style in the Victorian era. So it’s a bit ersatz.

If you climb up the steps of the keep, you’ll have a spectacular view of the River of Arun, the sea, and the town itself.

Arundel Castle also has some magnificent gardens to explore. If you plan to visit in the spring, you can admire the 60,000 tulips that bloom on the property.

In 2021, thieves broke into the castle and made off with artifacts valued at over $1.4 million, including the enameled rosary beads carried by Mary Queen of Scots at her execution in 1587.

You can combine a visit to Arundel castle with the romantic Amberley Castle, just 4 miles down the road. Fortified in the 14th century, Amberley has a dramatic 60 foot wall and twin tower gatehouse.

The castle is privately owned, but you can stay overnight in unabashed luxury by booking one of 15 rooms in the manor house, tower, or Bishop’s Hall.

3. Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

The history of Bamburgh Castle dates back to 420 A.D., when it was a Roman citadel. This makes it one of the oldest and best castles in England to visit.

Situated on a hill overlooking the North Sea, Bamburgh remained an impregnable fortress and royal stronghold for around 400 years. It was intended to stave off Scottish invaders and Viking raids.

The castle’s great keep was the work of Henry II. In the 15th century War of the Roses, Bamburgh became the first castle to be ever defeated by artillery, a new weapon of war.

By the 16th century, the castle was in ruins with only the keep intact. Lord Armstrong bought the castle in the Victorian era and began a massive renovation.

Nowadays, you can head inside to explore the staterooms, grounds, and the magnificent beach it looks over. There are 14 rooms open to the public with over 3,000 artifacts and exhibits. The King’s Hall is the most impressive room, with an intricate wooden ceiling.

4. Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire

Belvoir Castle is a romantic mock castle in England with an interesting 1,000 year history. It’s a romantic amalgam of architectural styles that make it movie set pretty. And, in fact, Belvoir doubled as Windsor Castle in season 3 of The Crown and in Young Victoria .

The name “Belvoir” translates to “beautiful view.” But the castle’s name is actually pronounced “Beever.”

The first castle on the site was built after William the Conqueror’s ascension to the throne. Belvoir was then in the hands of the Albini and de Roos family for centuries.

The castle was damaged in the War of the Roses. The first Earl of Rutherford got rid of the medieval remnants and turned it into a Tudor manor home.

That castle was then destroyed twice and rebuilt, for the final time, in the Victorian era in a Regency style. Queen Victoria was one of the castle’s many illustrious guests.

A must see room inside is the Regent’s Gallery. It displays Gobelin tapestries that once belonging to Louis XIV of France. The tapestries tell the story of Dion Quixote. 

5. Bodiam Castle , East Sussex

Bodiam Castle  is one of England’s true storybook castles. It’s a square fortress completely surrounded by a large lake-like moat. 

Built in the 14th century by the wealthy Sir Edward Dallingridge, Bodiam is one of the last medieval castles in Britain. It has a perfect symmetry with stout drum towers at each corner and crenellated walls. Conceived as a courtyard castle, it has unusually open middle grounds.

Like many castles of this period, Bodiam combined a fearsome facade with luxury elements. There were big rooms, toilets, and fireplaces.

By the 17th century, Bodiam was a celebrated and romantic ivy clad ruin. The exterior was restored in the 19th century. 

You can take the free guided tour or explore each nook and turret on your own. There’s a parking lot on site and you pay at the kiosk.

Bodiam Castle offers free tours that occur almost every day and give a brief history of the castle. The tours start at 12:15 pm and 2:15 pm and last around 35-45 minutes. 

6. Camber Castle, East Sussex

Camber Castle is a one mile walk from the picturesque town of Rye in Kent. It’s also known as Winchelsea Castle.

It’s a 16th century Henry VIII “gun fort” built in the shape of a flower. It was built to defend Rye Harbor against French attacks.

The castle lies in ruins. You can’t go inside, but you can admire the atmospheric exterior.

7. Colchester Castle, Essex

Colchester Castle was built in the 11th century and has the largest keep of any castle in England. It was built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, linking the Normans with the glory of Rome .

Today, it’s more museum than castle. But the Castle Museum is well worth the visit.

It houses important archaeological artifacts covering 2,500 years of history, including the most important Roman finds in Britain. The most famous piece is the Sheepen Cauldron, a huge and mysterious vessel dating from the Bronze Age in the 2nd century B.C.

An interactive tablet also shows you how the castle would have looked in its heyday.

8. Corfe Castle, Dorset

The once powerful Corfe Castle now lies in jagged ruins. This English castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and destroyed in the English Civil War.

Corfe was an important castle in England. Its location gave William access to southern coast and his homeland. Unlike other Norman castles, it was built out of stone, not wood, further underscoring its importance.

After William, Corfe Castle was a favorite of John and Henry III, who built curtain wall, towers, and a gloriette (a castle within a castle). It remained in royal hands until Elizabeth I sold it to one of her favorite courtiers. In 1635, Sir John Bankes bought the caste.

In 1642, the English Civil War broke out, pitting parliamentarians against royalists. Lady Bankes held out against the parliamentarians until she was betrayed by one of her own officers. As punishment, Corfe Castle was destroyed.

When the monarchy was restored in 1660, Corfe Castle was returned to the Bankes family. But they chose not to rebuild it. In 1982, they bequeathed the castle to the National Trust.

Today, you can wander through the picturesque archways and explore the west bailey, the oldest surviving section of the castle.

9. Deal Castle, Kent

Built in 1539-40, Deal Castle was the largest of Henry VIII’s “gun forts.” It was built to protect England’s southern coast against the threat of invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire. The castle was funded by Henry’s dissolution of the monasteries after the Reformation.

Deal Castle has a large central keep with six huge round bastions and an outer moat. It was meant to appear menacing, and it looks almost extraterrestrial.

In total, the castle features 66 firing positions. When viewed from the air, the castle takes on the sexfoil pattern of the Tudor rose.

Deal was famous as the spot where Henry’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, landed when she came to England in 1539.

The castle’s information center gives you a good history of the castle and Henry’s military strategies. There are beautiful coastal views from the top of the bastions.

10. Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle  is awesome in scope and size. Medievalists will be delighted by one of the oldest and best castles in England.

The first fortification on the site dates from the Iron Age. The strength of Dover’s position on the sea was so impressive that even Julius Caesar said it was “no place to attempt a landing” when he attacked England. The Romans further fortified it and then the Saxons moved in.

One of the greatest Norman monarchs, Henry II, built the imposing 12th century keep you see today. He was determined to keep England safe from France, which was just 17 miles away. Dover was a formidable castle the likes of which had never been seen before.

The central keep was 80 feet tall and the walls 100 feet long. The inner wall had 14 towers to accommodate archers.

The castle was never breached, though Prince Louis of France almost succeeded in 1216. You’ll find a multi-media exhibition dramatizing the event.

After that close call, Henry III improved Dover’s fortifications once again. He also added the great hall and royal accommodations.

Much of what you see today is unchanged from that era. The castle could take all day to explore, if you wanted to poke into every nook and cranny.

The castle’s highlight is the central keep with its Great Hall, royal chambers, and private chapel. 

The Constable’s Gateway is also impressive, with a labyrinth of tunnels that were important to medieval defense and served as an operations center during WWII. You’ll see examples of Medieval and Tudor arms and weaponry.

You can visit Dover castle along with the town of Canterbury on a guided day tour from London . You can also check out my complete guide to spending one day in Dover on a day trip from London .

11. Hastings Castle, East Sussex

Hastings Castle is an 11th century ruined castle built by William the Conqueror after landing in England. With a good harbor and site at the end of a peninsula, it was easy to defend.

The building of the castle is depicted in the famed Bayeux tapestry, which chronicles the events leading up to William’s invasion of France.

From this stronghold, William rampaged through southeast England, leading a campaign of intentional destruction and looting.

All the remains of the historic castle is a few walls and crumbling stone structures.

Because it’s perched high on a steep cliff, Hastings is not the easiest castle to visit. The only way up is via a steep staircase or funicular.

While visiting Hastings, you can watch 1066 Story , a 20 minute film on the fascinating history of the castle and the battles that decided England’s fate.

12. Herstmonceaux, East Sussex

Like Bodiam Castle, Herstmonceaux Castle was built to stave off possible French invasion. The 15th century castle is really more manor house than craggy castle.

Still, the castle has a battlements, a moat, and 300 acres of lovely gardens and woodland. The Elizabeth Garden is the most exquisite, with its rambling roses and daisies.

The red brick exterior is original, but the interior has been completely remodeled.

13. Hever Castle, Kent

If you’re a Tudor enthusiast, Hever Castle is one of the best castles to visit in England. Hever is a petite double-moated castle with a craggy romantic visage that’s largely unaltered by time.

It’s famously linked to the ill-fated royal couple, Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII . Their story is a fascinating one, one of the most dramatic in English history.

Hever was the childhood home of Anne, Henry’s second wife. It’s also linked to Henry’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, who was installed there after Henry divorced her in favor of Anne.

On a visit to Hever Castle, you can walk in the footsteps of these famous Tudor monarchs. And you can admire the castle’s medieval keep and gatehouse, Tudor rooms, original portraits, and exquisite gardens. 

The award-winning gardens are set over 125 acres. The peerless Italian Garden is the highlight of the castle gardens. It’s the setting for a collection of classical statuary from Roman to Renaissance times. 

You can also row boats on the 38 acre lake, wander through yew and water mazes, sniff roses, or try your hand at archery. There’s even an open water swimming course.

Here’s my complete guide to Hever Castle . You can get to Hever Castle from London on several guided day tours:

• a  full day guided Tudor tour of Hever Castle and Hampton Court Palace
• a  private half day tour to Hever Castle
• or a  6-8 tour of Hever Castle and Garden

14. Highclere Castle, Hampshire

Highclere Castle  is the country seat of the Earl of Carnarvon and one of England’s best and most beautiful castles. The stunning 300 room castle is most famous, though, as the real life  Downton Abbey from the hit British period TV series. 

Originally built in 1679, the castle was remodeled in the 1840s by the same architect who designed the Houses of Parliament in London. Famous landscape architect Capability Brown designed the gardens.

Royalty, politicians, famous writers, and film stars have stayed at Highclere Castle.

The current Earl’s family has been living on the estate since 1679. The Carnarvon are a busy lot. They’ve been involved in the founding of Canada, the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt, scandalous affairs, and sordid court cases.

The main things to see are the State Rooms, the Egyptian Exhibition, and the gardens.

The castle is open seasonally, so check opening dates on the website before planning a visit.

Highclere has some special events throughout the year, including an Easter Egg Hunt, Afternoon Tea, and various Christmas events. These events sell out quickly, so you should pre-book tickets online in advance.

The easiest way to get to Highclere is by car.

If you’d rather take a guided tour, this one includes a  visit to Highclere Castle and other  Downton Abbey  filming locations . You can also book a guided tour from London that combines  Highclere and Stonehenge .

15. Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

Kenilworth Castle was once the seats of medieval nobles. Today, the former castle lies in a heap of evocative ruins.

But what lovely ruins they are for ruin lusters. This is a place where your imagination can run wild.

Kenilworth has a compelling history and a colorful cast of characters. Sir Geoffrey de Clinton began work on the castle in 1122. But he didn’t hold it for long.

Henry II confiscated it to defend himself against his rebellious son. The king’s other son, King John, added a curtain wall and three defensive towers. He was later forced to surrender the castle as proof of his intent to comply with the Magna Carta.

When Henry III ascended the throne, he grabbed Kenilworth back and gave it to his sister and her husband Simon de Montfort. Bad move.

Montfort was angered by Henry’s chipping away at noble rights and soon led a rebellion. He lost in one of the most famous sieges of the Middle Ages.

After this battle, violence gave way to a more genteel castle. The Lancastrians took ownership, gussied up the place, and built a Great Hall. Under Henry IV, the castle officially became a royal residence.

Kenilworth’s swan song came when Elizabeth I gave the castle to her favorite courtier, Robert Dudley. He built enormous guest quarters to accommodate and delight the queen and her entourage on her famous visit in 1575. After that, the castle went into decline through disinterest and abuse.

Today, you can stroll the castle grounds and reconstruct its history. Take a walk along the curtain wall and see Mortimer’s Tower and Water Tower (the best preserved bit from the 13th century).

Near the Water Tower is Leicester’s Stables, which houses an exhibit on the castle’s history. Admire the gatehouse and then venture into the inner court.

Inside, you can admire the ruins of a Norman keep with turrets. You can see balls imbedded in the walls that date from the great siege of 1266. You can also visit the former Great Hall, ascend the Strong Tower for views, and see the ruins of Dudley’s buildings for Elizabeth.

16. Leeds Castle, Kent

Leeds Castle  is one of Britain’s best and most beautiful castles. The castle has a picturesque island setting on a lake in the wooded countryside of Kent.

Leeds’ history is no less romantic. Leeds Castle has been a Norman Stronghold, a Royal Palace, and the stately home of an American heiress. 

Today, you can visit the New Castle, the 13th century Gloriette tower, Maiden’s Tower, and the extensive grounds and gardens.

The castle was a royal residence until Tudor times and known as the “Ladies Castle.” Seven queens lived at Leeds. 

The castle was also a favorite abode of Henry VIII, who shuttled his ex-wife Catherine to live there permanently after their divorce. 

With Henry’s deep pockets, he lavished improvements on it, transforming Leeds from castle to royal palace. He added grand reception rooms, suites of rooms in the Gloriette, the graceful Maiden’s Tower, expensive glass, and fireplaces.

Thereafter, the castle fell into ruins. In 1926, American heiress Olive Paget (later Lady Baillie) purchased the castle. She saved it from centuries of neglect and restored it to medieval perfection.

You’ll be dazzled by its pristine landscaping, tasteful period furniture, and collection of medieval memorabilia.

The highlight is the Gloriette. You can visit the Banqueting Hall, the royal bedrooms, and climb the 16th century spiral staircase.

The castle is set on 500 acres of park land, landscaped by Capability Brown. The gardens include the Culpepper Garden, the Princess Alexandra Gardens, and the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden.

Children will enjoy the mazes, the duckery, the aviary, and the archery station.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to visiting Leeds castle . In high season, you should  pre-book a skip the line ticket  for the castle. It’s a bit pricey, but good for an entire year.

There are also guided sightseeing tours from London that stop at Leeds Castle. Here are some options: 

• 1 0 hour tour combining Leeds, Canterbury, and Dover
• 11 hour tour combi ni ng Leeds, Canterbury, and Greenwich
• 8 hour private t o ur to Leeds and Canterbury

Leeds Castle is also one of the few castles where you can stay overnight in the lap of luxury and feel like a royal. There are traditional cottages and bed and breakfasts available to book, including:

• Weir Cottage  ( 1 bedroom)
• The Oast  (3 bedroom)
• Stable Courtyard  (bed & breakfast)
• Maiden’s Tower  (bed & breakfast)
• Holiday Cottages

17. Leicester Castle, Leicestershire

Leicester Castle played a pivotal role in the English history. The first iteration of the castle was built just after the Norman conquest in 1066.

By the reign of Henry I, the castle had passed into the hands of the Earl of Leicester. In 1150, he set about improving the defensive structure and built a great medieval hall.

Unfortunately, Henry II sacked the castle in 1173 to squelch a rebellion. Only the Great Hall survived.

Simon de Montfort rebuilt the castle and, in the great hall, held the first English parliamentary session. But royalist forces caught up to de Montfort. He was killed and the castle passed to the Earl of Lancaster, who transformed the stronghold into a primary Lancastrian residence.

During the late 15th century, the castle was still occasionally used as a royal residence — Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI, and Edward IV all stayed there.

Despite taking a beating during subsequent battles, two important medieval structures remain onsite: the Great Hall and the ancient Church of St. Mary de Castro.

The 12th century Great Hall is believed to be the oldest surviving castle hall with a bay, aisles, and timber roof in all of Europe. The church was the castle’s lavish chapel.

Unfortunately, the interior of Leicester Castle is mostly inaccessible, open only on special event days or Heritage Sundays . You can also attend mass at the church.

READ : One Day In Leicester Itinerary

18. Ludlow Castle, Shropshire

Ludlow Castle has been dubbed the “the very perfection of decay,” so ruin lusters will think it’s one of the best castles in England.

The de Lacy family began building Ludlow in the 11th century. You can see remnants of their efforts in the gatehouse, keep, and Norman chapel. The chapel’s unique round nave, associated with the Knights Templar , still stands.

The castle came into the hands of the de Genevieve family in the 13th century and the infamous Roger Mortimer in the 14th century.

Mortimer was the secret lover of Queen Isabella and implicated in the murder of Edward II. When he grew too powerful, he was executed. The tower named for him, Mortimer’s Tower, has a semi-circular design and still stands in the bailey.

In 1461, Ludlow became a royal castle and would stay that way for the next three centuries. Edward IV’s son, Edward, was sent to live there. When his father died, he traveled to London.

But Richard III imprisoned the presumptive new king and his brother Richard in the Tower of London and they disappeared, while Richard was crowned king.

Did Richard murder the princes? It’s one of England’s most famous legends and mysteries. Even today, the fate of the princes is uncertain.

The last royal Ludlow occupant was Arthur, the son of Henry VIII, who died there. After that, the castle was abandoned and fell into the well-preserved medieval ruins you see today.

The Earl of Powis purchased Ludlow in the early 19th century. The family invested heavily to halt its decline and allow it to open as a tourist attraction. Make sure to climb up the tower for the best views over the picturesque Shropshire town of Ludlow.

19. Pevensey Castle, East Sussex

Pevensey Castle is one of the oldest castles in England. Some scholars call it the first Norman castle in history.

Pevensey is where it all began. It was here that William the Conqueror landed to claim the throne of England in 1066.

The crumbling ruins of the castle stand high on a hill with sweeping views of the English Cannel. In its heyday, Pevensey was an impregnable fortress that never fell to assault during its turbulent history.

After the Conqueror landed, he converted an ancient defensive fort into a motte and bailey castle. Later, the Earl of Richmond built a tall curtain wall and towers.

In the 15th century, the castle was abandoned. What you see today are the remains of the impressive curtain walls, the ruins of a medieval building in the inner bailey, and a 13th century gatehouse with dungeons.

Legend holds that the ghost of Lady Pelham walks the outer walls of the castle at night. She was the wife of the castle constable.

20. Raby Castle, Durham

Raby Castle is one of the finest intact medieval castles in England.

Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family, it has a storied history. Raby was home to Cecily Neville, the mother of two kings of England.

It was the the scene of plotting and a parliamentary stronghold during the English Civil War. When that rebellion failed, the castle was forfeited to the crown.

Originally moated and accessed via a drawbridge, Raby was built as a palace fortress. It boasts a sequence of massive towers linked by curtain walls.

Inside, the castle has Medieval, Regency and Victorian interiors. The entrance hall has tall Gothic vaulted ceilings, a massive fireplace, and armory decorating the walls.

The Baron’s Hall was where much of the civil war machinations took place. Today, you can admire an art collection and a beautiful Neo-Gothic beamed ceiling.

The castle’s distinctive blue kitchen is really a pretty space. Dating to the 14th century, it has a collection of Victorian copper cooking utensils

Raby Castle offers 1 hour guided hours . You’ll get an informative history of the castle during its heyday, from the medieval Neville family up to the Vane family who still owns the castle today. You’ll hear tales of family disputes and the many royal visitors that Raby has hosted.

Raby is also a popular filming location. The castle doubled as the temporary Royal Family residence in the new  Downton Abbey  film. It was also featured in film Elizabeth  (1998) and the popular drama series  Victoria  (2016-19).

21. Rochester Castle, Kent

Rochester Castle  has one of England’s best preserved Norman keeps. Dating from the 12th century, it’s also one of the tallest at 113 feet high. 

The castle is just a shell now, but still steeped in history. William the Conquerer granted the castle to his half brother Odo, who built a strong motte and bailey castle. He was a powerful and clever man, but was brought down by his own ambition.

Odo made a bid for the crown in 1082. But lost a siege of Rochester Castle and was banished from England.

The present day castle dates from 1127. For almost a century, it remained in the hands of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Later, barons rebelling against King John (the evil king from the Robin Hood tales) stole the castle. John took them down in a long, slow siege where the resistors were starved to death.

Rochester Castle was damaged during Simon de Montfort’s rebellion and again in the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. Later kings weren’t enamored with the ancient keep and it fell into ruins, although the outer keep was preserved.

You can enter the keep and, if you are game, tackle the steep spiral staircase to the top of the battlements for views of the countryside. 

22. Rockingham Castle, North Hamptonshire

Rockingham Castle is a former royal castle and hunting lodge in Rockingham Forest. Rockingham has been the home of the Watson family since the 16th century. Before that, it was a royal enclave for 500 years.

Fortifications have been on the site since the Iron Age. The Romans and Saxons were there. William the Conqueror built the first castle after the Norman Conquest.

Rockingham is known for its sprawling hunting grounds and beautiful countryside views. This made it a favorite of medieval monarchs.

By the 15th century, the castle was no longer in favor. Henry III sold it to Edward Watson in 1533.

Unlike many castles in England, Rockingham still has vestiges of its medieval past. The castle’s Norman walls are partially intact, as is the 1290 gatehouse.

Inside, the Great Hall is filled with some important Tudor portraits, including one of Jane Seymour (Henry VIII’s favorite wife) and of Elizabeth I surrounded by her councilors.

The Long Gallery has some of finest paintings and furniture in the Castle. There are 18 acres of gardens with a 400 year old “elephant hedge.”

23. Sissinghurst Castle, Kent

Just 40+ minutes from Hever,  Sissinghurst Castle  is a National Trust property and major highlight for garden lovers.

Laid out in the 1930s, the castle boasts one of the world’s greatest 20th century romantic gardens. 

Former owner and writer Vita Sackville-West designed the gardens to look like rooms of a house. Each one has its own color scheme and theme.

The gardens are most beautiful in spring.

24. St. Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

1,600 feet from the Cornish coast in Mount’s Bay is a small tidal island called St. Michael’s Mount . It’s reminiscent of France’s Mont Saint-Michel . Often overlooked, it really is one of the best English castles.

The castle is accessible on foot via a cobblestone causeway that resurfaces during low tide or by small boat transfer.

During a history that began in the 12th century, St. Michael’s Mount has been a priory, fortress, place of pilgrimage, and, finally, the private home to the St Aubyn family.

In 1954, the St. Aubyns partnered with the National Trust to open the castle to the public. As you pass through the medieval doors, you can tour the armory, the Gothic drawing room, and a 14th century church.

The castle also boasts some exotic terraced gardens. In the summertime, the castle’s lit up to appear as if it’s floating in mid air on a calm sea.

25. Tonbridge Castle, Kent

Tonbridge Castle is one of England’s most authentic medieval   castle, standing guard (rather menacingly) over the market town of Tonbridge in Kent. 

After being gifted the plot by William the Conqueror, Richard Fitz Gilbert built a wooden motte and bailey castle on the site. But Fitz Gilbert backed Odo against William in the civil war of 1088. William laid siege to Tonbrige and it fell.

Nonetheless, Fitz Gilbert’s son, Gilbert de Clare, became fast friends with William and rebuilt a stone castle.

In the late 13th century, another de Clare, the notorious “Red Earl,” built the mammoth 5 story gatehouse. The structure contained guard rooms, a great banqueting hall, and living quarters.

Today, you can enter the gatehouse and explore the great hall, winding stairs, and basement. Climb the battlements for breathtaking views across the town.

If you’re a fan of Madame Tussaud’s, you’ll love Tonbridge. Life size wax figures are scattered through the castle to give you slices of life from the Middle Ages. You can also get the complete scoop with the castle’s audio guide.

READ : One Week In Kent Itinerary

26. Tower of London, London

After Warwick Castle, the Tower of London is the second most popular castle in England. The Tower is also the most famous, with 900 years of history and blood. 

It has served as a royal palace, a fortress, an infamous prison, a mint, a military storehouse, a treasury, home to the Crown Jewels, an armory, a public records office, a royal observatory, and a royal zoo. Even as a place of execution. 

You will be blissfully immersed in the various successions of the Edwards, the Richards, and the Henrys.

It was here that Richard II abdicated, Henry IV was crowned, Henry VI was imprisoned (and possibly murdered), the princes of Edward IV were imprisoned, and Anne Boleyn was both crowned and executed.

William the Conqueror built the first version of the tower. In 1078, he authorized construction of what is now known as the White Tower, which took almost 20 years to build.

Over the centuries, Henry III and Edward I   expanded William’s fortress. They added huge curtain walls with a series of smaller towers and enlarged the moat. Medieval kings and queens added luxurious apartments. 

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the Tower of London . If you loathe queues, be sure to purchase a skip the ticket in advance .

The Tower is also free with the  London Pass , which you will likely want to purchase if you’re in London for several days.

For a more in depth experience, you may want to book your own tour with an expert. I’ve taken this  3 hour guided tour  and it was excellent. If you’re traveling with your family, check out this special  3 hour guided tour  for kids.

27. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Warwick Castle is one of the most significant castles in English history and the most visited castle in England. Your first glimpse will take your breath away.

The legendary Warwick Castle shaped 900 years of British history. The castle was built by a king. In 1449, it passed into the hands of the warmongering Duke of Warwick, Richard “the Kingmaker” Neville.

The castle was the backdrop for one the most famous dynastic conflicts in England, the War of the Roses . It was an epic battle for the throne between the House of York and the House of Lancaster.

The wealthy Kingmaker played chess with his Yorkist cousins, backing the monarch who best served his interests at the time. At one point, he imprisoned Edward IV in Warwick Castle and attempted to rule as uncrowned king.

After his defeat at the Battle of Barnet, the castle eventually landed in the hands of John Dudley, an ally of Edward IV. He claimed the earldom, but then lost his head when he tried to promote Lady Jane Grey to to the throne.

With that rich history as a backdrop, you will love visiting Warwick Castle and there’s a tremendous amount to see.

Warwick is everything you’d expect in a storied fairytale castle – crenellated turrets, moats, and dungeons. You’ll want to walk the 127 feet tall high walls and climb Caesar’s Tower, the most majestic of the castle’s three primary towers.

Displays in the castle are also stellar. There is a magnificent Great Hall.

You’ll also see period furnishings, extraordinary life-like waxwork models, the state rooms, and reenactments that aim to give you insight into what life was like in a medieval castle.

The castle also prides itself on bringing history to life. The exhibition on “a day in the life of Richard Neville” is quite good. But other exhibitions make the castle seem a bit Disney-fied.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Warwick Castle . Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket.

From London, you can book a  self guided tour that includes train and entry tickets or a  private guided tour from London .

28. Windsor Castle, Berkshire

Windsor Castle is a striking 11th century castle that’s the official home of the royal family. This is my favorite castle in England and a must visit for history buffs.

Windsor Castle’s history is deep indeed. By legend, Sir Aurther and his knights of the Round Table met regularly in Windsor. William the Conqueror was the first builder, making Windsor one of his “ring around London” castles meant to subdue the city.

The castle is the longest occupied royal residence in the world. It’s been the symbol of the monarchy for 1,000 years. The castle was expanded by Henry II, Edward III, and Henry VIII.

Later, George III and George IV redesigned interior portions of the castle, wiping away some of its medieval roots.

You enter the castle through St. George’s Gate. At the castle, you can see the sprawling grounds, take the “long walk,” admire lavish royal staterooms and apartments, and visit a magnificent Perpendicular Gothic chapel. 

St. George’s Chapel is simply gorgeous. It’s the place to pay homage to ancient dead kings, including the infamous Henry VIII. The chapel is also the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, England’s most prestigious club.

Not only is Windsor an authentic medieval castle, it’s home to some of the finest and most famous paintings in the British Royal Collection . You’ll find master works from English portraitists, the Northern Renaissance, the Italian Renaissance, and the Baroque eras.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Windsor Castle . Click  here  to book a skip the line admission ticket. If you want to see the changing the guard, visit on Thursday or Saturday.

Windsor Castle is also included in the  London Pass , if you have that card. Windsor is easy to reach from London. You can also book a guided half day tour to Windsor from London . 

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best castles in England. You may enjoy these other England travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Hidden Gems in London
• 30 Day Trips from London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Best Museums in London
• One Day In Canterbury Itinerary
• One Day in Oxford Itinerary
• One Day In Stratford-upon-Avon
• Harry Potter Places in London
• Guide to Westminster Abbey
• Guide to St. Paul’s Cathedra l

If you’d like to visit England’s best castles, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on June 14, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

25 Unique and Interesting Things to Do in the North of England

September 15, 2022

Most tourists who visit England only go to London.

They fly into London and they fly out of London.

They visit Big Ben. They wander around Buckingham Palace. They take photographs of the London Eye. They uncomfortably cram themselves onto the Tube to travel from one place to another.

And when they’ve done all that, they’re convinced that they’ve seen everything that England has to offer.

If they have a little more time, they might venture further afield, to Brighton, or Dover, or Windsor.

But few international tourists venture to the north of England.

In spite of that, they absolutely should. Largely ignored by overseas tourists, the north of England is packed with experience, from cultural capitals to award-winning coastlines to some of the most remote, rural regions of the UK.

You’ve probably heard of Liverpool . And Newcastle . And Manchester . And maybe those places haven’t convinced you that the north of England has enough allure to draw you in.

In this article, I’ve taken a different angle. I’ve assembled a list of the north of England’s 25 most interesting, unusual, unique attractions.

By the time you reach the end of it, you’ll be booking a flight and a hotel .

Here we go – a big fat list of the best, most interesting and most unusual attractions that the north of England has to offer.

1. Hadrian’s Wall

2. kielder observatory, 3. bamburgh castle, 4. alnwick castle and gardens, 5. durham cathedral, 6. beamish museum, 7. seaham beach, 8. whitby abbey, 9. scarborough harbour, 10. flamingo land, 11. lakeland llama trekking, 12. the lake district, 13. the forbidden corner, 14. white scar caves, 15. york minster, 16. york dungeons, 17. jorvik viking festival, 18. lancaster castle, 19. blackpool beach . and pleasure beach, 20. singing ringing tree, 21. national coal mining museum, 22. wakefield mental health museum, 23. afflecks palace, 24. manchester football museum, 25. beatles story.

Bam! Straight in with the biggest and most spectacular Roman site in the whole of the UK.

At almost 120km, it’s a site of immense historical significance, and was built to keep the northern Barbarians out of Roman-occupied territory. Though the site itself is incredible, dotted with stretches of original wall (in addition to ancient forts), the real highlight is the challenge of walking it.

Some people tackle small individual stretches such as Sycamore Gap and the area around Housesteads, but other idiots ( like me ) decide to walk the whole route over multiple days.

If you like remote hikes or ancient sites, you’ll love Hadrian’s Wall.

Close to the Scottish border sits the second-largest protected area of night sky in the whole of Europe.

Dark sky. Cool. Why would you care?

Here’s why: because it offers probably the best view of the stars that you’ll have ever seen in your entire life. And probably ever will.

Everyone likes stars. Everyone likes looking up at the night sky and seeing five or six or seven of the little guys. Here, the night sky is so dark that you can see thousands of them.

But it isn’t just a place to gaze with your naked eye. The observatory offers specialist equipment for a close-up look in addition to talks, space rocks and other wacky and weird star-related stuff.

You can also do many more activities around the observatory if you want to.

England has lots of castles. But Northumberland , England’s most northern county, has more castles than any other county in the country. It’s castle central. Castleville. Castle corner.

You can read my guide about the best castles in Northumberland . Hint: One of them is believed by some folks to be haunted!

But of all the imposing, important and influential castles that Northumberland has to offer, Bamburgh might just be the best. It’s definitely the most beautiful.

Perched upon a rocky promontory, it proudly overlooks the town which it calls home. On the castle’s other side is one of Northumberland’s best beaches – and looking up at the castle from Bamburgh’s shores is the best way to see it.

For more Northumberland coastal adventures, head to the pilgrimage spot of Holy Island (which is only accessible at certain times of day) or visit nesting puffins on the Farne Islands by boat.

Another Northumberland Castle, this one is most iconic because of its ties to Harry Potter . Some scenes from the movies were filmed here, a fact now celebrated via a number of tours.

If you aren’t interested in imaginary wizards or magic wands (and if you’re an adult, why would you be?), Alnwick Castle still has plenty to offer.

Highlights include the castle itself, one of the world’s biggest treehouses and the poison garden, which is home to more than 100 plants capable of killing. Please don’t eat them.

Renowned for its incredible architecture, Durham Cathedral stands high above the city of Durham. From the outside, it’s magnificent, but its interior is even better, full of stained glass, beautiful clocks and surprisingly-vibrant colours. It’s one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the whole of the UK.

It even possesses the highest throne in Christendom (taller even than the Pope’s. Sorry Pope).

A place of pilgrimage, it’s the final resting place of two saints. A UNESCO site , it was also used as a filming location for Harry Potter .

A realistic and multi-faceted living museum, this place is genuinely unique and unusual.

Ever wanted to be a Victorian student in a brutal school? Or a coal miner? Or see what it’s like to live in a WW2 home? If your answer is yes, you can do it all here. If your answer is no, a visit to Beamish will change your mind.

With working exhibitions taking visitors all the way from 1820 to 1950, you can also drink beer in a traditional pub, buy sweets in an old sweet shop, visit historical homes, pose for an old-school family portrait, ride a steam train and travel on a retro tram. It’s time travel without all the complicated paradoxes.

This beach in itself isn’t particularly beautiful. But it’s not famous for its views.

Instead, it’s famous for glass. Yep, you haven’t read that wrong. Glass.

People from all over the UK visit these shores to sift through Seaham’s sands in a bizarre search for small shards of glass.

Seaham was once home to the largest glassworks in Britain. The owners of this glassworks would regularly dump huge amounts of glass into the sea. Decades later, people still hunt for it, using it to decorate their homes or make homemade jewellery.

If this place is good enough for Bram Stoker, it’s good enough for you. The bat-mad author used this abbey (and the surrounding area) as part of his inspiration for writing Dracula. And though that’s one of the big draws for coming here, it’s not the only one.

A monastery of huge significance, this was once one of the most important religious spots in the whole of the Anglo Saxon world.

The abbey is situated just above the glistening shores of seaside Whitby, which is a lovely town in itself. After you’ve visited the abbey, treat yourself to a nice little ice cream.

The eastern coast of northern England is full of traditional little seaside towns which make for a relaxing yet retro getaway. Traditionally, English families would come to places like Scarborough before budget foreign getaways became the norm.

But though foreign holidays are now mega-popular, places like Scarborough still thrive, and this might just be the best quaint seaside town of them all. With ice cream, fish and chips, arcade games, sandcastles and iconically-cold English water, Scarborough is a great insight into old-school English holidays.

Scarborough’s highlight is its lovely harbour, which is home to around 300 boats. Backed by rocky beaches, colorful homes and smiling kids, it’s a charming place to spend some time.

One of the best theme parks in England and one of the best zoos in the UK , this is a great pick if you’re looking for high-octane theme park thrills in the north of the country.

With 5 intense roller coasters and several other thrill rides, it offers plenty of adrenaline rushes along with rides for smaller kids.

And if that’s not enough, it also plays host to an award-winning zoo, with lions, camels, zebras, chimpanzees and more. If the sheer drops don’t scare you, the big cats will.

Ever thought about going hiking with a llama? I hadn’t either, until I heard about Lakeland Llama Trekking. And now it’s all I want to do.

If you like llamas and you like hiking, this might just be the best thing you’ve ever heard of. Because llamas aren’t very big, you don’t ride them, but they come on your trek with you. Inexplicable and absurd, but also outrageously appealing.

The walks offer views of The Lake District National Park and The Pennine Hills. And llamas.

Don’t worry, you don’t absolutely need to hike with a llama. If you want to, you can hike all on your own.

If you want to explore some of England’s best mountains, the Lake District is a great choice.

A huge area full of mountains , lakes and charming towns and villages, it’s a hiker’s dream. England’s largest national park, the area features England’s deepest lake along with 15 more.

It’s difficult to summarise exactly where you should go (without another entire article), but the best peaks include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Bowfell, while the most famous lakes include Windermere, Coniston Water and Ennerdale Water. Looking for traditional English towns and villages? Check out Ambleside, Bowness-on-Windermere and Grasmere.

This one is really weird. Made for kids but enjoyable for everyone, The Forbidden Corner is pretty much a giant outdoor maze full of strange and unusual attractions.

Highlights include a labyrinth (with a revolving floor), hidden tunnels, passages which lead nowhere, a secret crypt, a huge glass pyramid (maybe it’s made of Seaham glass), underground chambers and lots of other tricks and traps.

It’s creepy, it’s charming and it’s bizarre. If you like strange stuff, you’ll love this.

More cavernous labyrinths, but these ones aren’t man-made. The longest show cave in England, you can venture through the rocks to find underground streams and waterfalls. You can access the caves only on a guided tour (so you won’t get lost – hooray!), allowing you to learn more about the curious rock formations inside.

The tour is over 1.5km, so it’s packed full of weird and wacky underground adventures.

York is charming, ancient and full of history. But of all the buildings which make up the city, York Minster might just be the best. One of the largest cathedrals of its kind in northern Europe, it was completed in the 15th century.

Gothic and atmospheric, it’s full of gargoyles, stained glass windows and imposing lofty architecture. If you’re interested in religious buildings, this is one of England’s most impressive attractions.

Once struck by lightning, the minster’s huge 21-storey tower weighs as much as 20 jumbo jets.

Another York historical attraction, but this one is a little less stoic and serious than the city’s minster. An actor-led interactive experience through York’s gruesome and grisly history of murder and the macabre, a visit takes guests through 2000 years of York’s most horrifying heritage.

If you like history but you’re bored by the tedium of museums, this is for you.

Like being terrified by people pretending to be murderers? Or being put on trial? Or dark spaces? Or screaming so much that you might cry? A tour of York Dungeons gives you it all, as you meet murderers, plague victims and torturers, with around 60 minutes of spine-tingling excitement. It’s like being in a haunted house with teachers.

An interactive experience full of jump scares and nervous laughs, it’s York’s most funny and frightening attraction.

Another York interactive experience, this one is somehow even weirder than the city’s dungeons. The largest event of its type in Europe, this is essentially a load of Viking cosplayers battling, building and delivering workshops.

If you’ve ever wanted to watch Viking tribute acts smash each other over the head with swords, you’ve somehow managed to find an event that’ll give you exactly that. The festival also features live history encampments, Viking feasts, sorcerer workshops, crafting, storytelling and more.

A truly immersive experience, it’s one of England’s most unusual festivals.

If you’re not in England while the festival is happening, you can instead head to the affiliated JORVIK Viking Centre, an excellent interactive museum which is open year-round.

We’ve already featured two castles on this list. But this one is a little different.

Not only a huge 12th-century castle, it also has links to Roman history. And it held witch trials. And it’s the oldest working prison in England. And it housed captives until as recently as 2011.

Guided tours here are incredible, and take you through the castle’s dark history, with information on executions, torture and prison cells. With tales of murder, witchcraft and religious persecution, it’s an incredible insight into a grislier side of English history.

I’ve already mentioned archetypal English seaside vacations in the section on Scarborough Harbour. But Blackpool is THE archetypal English seaside vacation. And it offers a vastly different experience to Scarborough.

While the latter is humble and wholesome, Blackpool is loud, intense and raucous, with topless middle-aged men running around like kids. And topless kids running around like kids.

If you like busy beaches with big atmospheres, you’ll love it here. It’s fun, unpretentious and no-frills. It even has a theme park (known as Blackpool Pleasure Beach) with lots of rides and roller coasters.

An adrenaline-fuelled trip in more ways than one, Blackpool’s seaside is a huge favourite among English tourists.

Maybe the weirdest sculpture in the whole of England, this award-winning construction is pretty much a giant self-playing musical instrument. Carefully constructed from layers of steel pipes, the tornado-shaped sculpture harnesses the natural power of wind to produce music.

Imagine if you took a brass band, turned them into sculpture and put them on a hill. That’s the Singing Ringing Tree.

Set in the hills near the town of Burnley, the panoramic view from the sculpture is fantastic, making for a multi-sensory spectacular both bizarre and beautiful.

The north of England is synonymous with coal. Decades ago, this region was almost single-handedly funded by the mining and production of the stuff. And that’s a history which is considered and explored by this museum near Wakefield.

Here, you can chat to former miners, meet pit ponies, explore the homes and workplaces of miners and learn all about the history of coal mining.

But it’s not just about history. The museum explores interesting facets of mining life, such as the language used, the dangers experienced and the class struggles inherent in the job. It’s perhaps northern England’s best insight into what this region once was, and how that’s affected what it now is.

Another Wakefield Museum, this one is about the inside of our brains rather than the inside of underground mines.

An unusual museum, it houses an interesting collection of mental health-related objects from the 19th century to the present day. Set in a humble two-room collection, its highlight is a real-life padded cell, which is both a disturbing and fascinating insight into the history of mental health treatment.

The museum explores how mental health treatments have greatly evolved (and continue to evolve) from their rudimentary beginnings.

Imagine the weirdest shopping complex you’ve ever been in. Now multiply that by ten. That’s Manchester’s Afflecks Palace, which offers one of England’s most unusual shopping experiences.

Wacky wares include collectible toys, rubber masks, record players, american candies, music posters, strange clothes, crystal balls, ancient relics and way more. It’s impossible to summarise the absurd and unusual goods on offer.

With five labyrinthine floors of stores, arcade games, photo booths, a breakfast cereal cafe and some of Manchester’s weirdest residents, it’s a great place to waste a couple of hours.

I’ll start by clearing up any confusion. I’m talking about soccer here. As you all know, that’s what we in England call football. And that’s what everyone should call football. But let’s not argue.

The biggest and best football museum in the whole world, this place takes the concept of interactivity and runs with it. And kicks it. And scores goals with it. You can take penalties, practice skills, attempt challenges and loads more.

When your lungs can’t take any more interaction, you can explore the museum’s galleries, which include trophies, jerseys, posters, programmes and medals. If you like football, you’ll love this, regardless of your age. It’s one of the most fun museums on the planet.

Is there anything more archetypally English than The Beatles? Probably not, so they’re the perfect way to round off this list. The most famous band of all time was – as you probably know – made in Liverpool.

Their music, legacy and history are all celebrated in this interactive experience. With authentic recreations of 1960s settings, facts about the Fab Four and their music, and interactive stylised exhibitions, it’s fun and informative.

If you like The Beatles, you’ll love this. If you don’t, you will by the time you’ve left.

Go to northern England!

As I’ve (hopefully) covered in detail, it’s got loads of unusual and interesting stuff. And everyone loves unusual and interesting stuff.

But even more than that, it’s friendly and welcoming. People from the north of England have a reputation for being some of the friendliest people on the planet, and we love pointing people in the direction of things they’ll enjoy.

With remote areas, excellent outdoor adventures, some of England’s greatest cities and loads of wacky and weird stuff to enjoy, it’s one of the most exciting regions on the planet. Get yourself to northern England. Who knows, you might even see me there.

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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England for Anglophiles

The 30 Best Castles of England Worth The Journey From London

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With more than 4000 castles, how do you know which are the best castles in England to visit? With the help of travel writer friends, we have created a list of the best castles England has. Castles in Northern England include Alnwick Castle, famous as Hogwarts in Harry Potter. Castles in Southern England include Tintagel which is associated with King Arthur. For central England, there are beautiful castles in East Midlands, castles in West Midland and castles in East Anglia, many of which are steeped in important historical events that shaped the country’s path.

Best Castles of England – Central England

Some of the best castles of England lie in the middle of the country. As armies from the north and the south of England clashed, lots of the beautiful castles in England were left in ruins. There was lots of history made in the castles of the East Midlands, such as Nottingham Castle, and the castles of the West Midlands, such as Tutbury Castle. Castles in East Anglia, likewise, have plenty of history including Norwich Castle which is now a full-blown museum.

Baconsthorpe Castle

One of the most wonderful things about England is that beauty hides around every corner. As you trundle down the farm track towards Baconsthorpe Castle , you’d have no idea that the ruins of this 15th-century manor house are even there. Located in Baconsthorpe, just outside of Holt in Norfolk, this English Heritage site offers a fascinating insight into the history of the area. Once owned by the highly influential local family, the Heydon’s, the castle was passed down through many generations until too much spending meant that much of it needed to be sold off to pay debts. The castle sits in a truly idyllic setting, the highlight of which is the impressive moat where it is possible to see swans in the summer. There are also a number of beautiful circular walks nearby. Unlike many other English castles, Baconsthorpe offers remarkable value for money and is free to enter. The only costs that guests will incur are the cost to park in the car park which is charged at £2. English Heritage members park for free. Pet owners will also be pleased to hear that Baconsthorpe Castle is dog-friendly. Animals, however, should be kept on leads at all times.

– by Sheree Hooker at Winging The World

Bolsover Castle

Bolsover Castle is located within the beautiful village of Bolsover, Derbyshire. Set atop a steep hill, you can marvel at the spectacular 17th century fairy-tale mansion as you approach. The castle itself originates as a gift from William the Conqueror to one of his knights. As you wander around the grounds, you can see remnants of the lavish rooms that were designed to impress and entertain. Explore the fountain garden, the extensive terrace and the little castle. But best of all, gaze at the spectacular views of the countryside from the medieval style turret walls. Bolsover castle is part of English Heritage and accordingly, to enter the grounds you will need to purchase a ticket on the day, or in advance. There is a visitor centre where you can purchase audio guides for an immersive historical experience. You can also learn a lot from the free leaflets and posters. However, if you just want to enjoy the view of the castle itself, you can park on the hill, cross the small path and come out into the large open field at the foot of the castle. Best of all this part is free!

– by Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel 

Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden is a large castle that is owned and maintained by English Heritage. The castle is located in the town of Kenilworth in the county of Warwickshire. The gardens had a major revamp at a huge cost of around 2 million but it was more than worth it as the gardens are stunning. They were originally created for Queen Elizabeth 1 by Robert, Earl of Leicester. In a huge Tudor stable you will find a cafe and next to here the staff often host family-friendly activities such as learning how to shoot arrows and build battle defences. The castle itself is largely ruined but that doesn’t mean there’s not much to explore. Some of the ruin has staircases and platforms now installed so that you can climb high up and enjoy some impressive views. The ruined Great Hall is also incredibly impressive with some fabulous views of the gardens from the Castle Keep. In the gardens, there are some lovely statues, flowers, plants and herbs that you can rub to smell. There is a cute aviary with canaries and other small birds. The centrepiece is a fountain made entirely out of marble. You can also look around Leicester’s Gatehouse which is an intact part of the castle with some interesting reconstructed rooms that you can look around. Kenilworth Castle is one of our favourite days out.

– by Suzy McCullough at Yorkshire To Do With Kids

Norwich Castle

What Norwich Castle lacks in beauty, it makes up for with history. It is a Grade I-listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The castle was founded by William the Conqueror sometime around 1067. Up until the mid-12th century, when Henry II built Orford Castle, Norwich was the only major royal castle in East Anglia. Today only the castle keep still stands on a hill in the middle of the Norwich city centre. Since 1895, it has been a museum. Norwich Castle is one of the best things to do in Norwich and perfect for a day out with the kids. Allow at least two hours to visit Norwich Castle. Inside the keep nothing remains of the medieval layout. You can walk around the castle and learn about its history through interactive displays. They also offer tours of the dungeon and the battlements. In the exhibition area next to the keep, they have a diverse collection of fine art, including costume, textiles, jewellery, glass, ceramics, teapots, and silverware. There are also displays about Boudica (Queen of the Iceni), and the Romans, Anglo Saxons and Vikings. You will also find a section about the Egyptians as well as a Natural History Gallery. – by Anisa Alhilali of Norfolk Local Guide

Nottingham Castle

Nottingham Castle definitely comes under the bracket of epic castles in England. Although the castle doesn’t have impressive turrets or battalions that other castles have it is overflowing with historical significance and is one of the top Nottingham attractions . Nottingham Castle was originally built as a wooden structure in 1068 on top of a sandstone cliff known as ‘Castle Rock’ which was a huge vantage point. The wooden castle was replaced with a much stronger stone castle during the reign of Henry II. This castle was used as a royal residence and served as one of the most important fortresses in England due to its strategic position near a crossing point of the River Trent. For this reason, Nottingham Castle was used as a secondary location for parliament to be held. In 1642 Charles I chose Nottingham Castle because of its defensive capabilities as the rallying point for his armies at the start of the English Civil War. After many skirmishes at the site it was left in a semi-ruined state, and after Charles I was executed the medieval Nottingham Castle was razed to the ground to prevent it being used in future uprisings. The current Ducal Mansion was built on the foundations of the previous Nottingham Castle by the Duke of Newcastle between 1674 and 1679 and today it houses various art collections and galleries on the history and archaeology of Nottingham.

– by Stephanie Jackson from Book It Let’s Go!

Oakham Castle

All that is left of Oakham Castle is its Great Hall which has survived from Norman times. Unlike Pevensey Castle , it was not fortunate enough to have a Roman base which could withstand the test of time. The Castle is conveniently located in the center of Oakham, the county town of Rutland, the smallest county in England.

One of the unique things about Oakham Castle is its collection of horseshoes. No one knows where this tradition started but every visiting nobleman or royal has to provide a horseshoe to hang on the wall of the Great Hall on their first visit to Oakham Castle. The oldest horseshoe belongs to Edward IV from the 15th century. There are over 200 horseshoes now including horseshoes given by Prince Charles, Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Victoria.

The Great Hall at Oakham Castle is surrounded by a large field where the Castle’s outbuildings would have stood. The defensive walls are also still in place. From the top of the hill for the wall, you have fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Rockingham Castle

Rockingham Castle stands on the “Rock” high above the River Welland Valley close to the border of Northamptonshire and Rutland. Rockingham Castle is a motte and bailey castle (which comes from the Norman French words for mound and enclosed land) and was built around 1070 by King William the Conqueror. Several Kings and Queens have stayed at the castle, including Richard the Lionheart, King John, and Edward I during its 900+ years. In 1544 the castle passed into private hands when Henry VIII gave Rockingham Castle to Edward Watson who turned the Castle into a family home. Since then Rockingham Castle has remained in the hands of the Watson family, undergoing many changes throughout the years, who still own it today as their private home. Rockingham Castle is open to visitors several times a year and its Civil War Themed Events are very popular. The gardens, set in 18 acres, are worth touring where a 400 year old Yew Hedge known as the “Elephant Hedge” is a prominent feature as well as seventeenth century terraces, a circular rose garden and a nineteenth century woodland garden. An interesting side trip you can make is a walk down Rockingham Hill to the village where you can see many tudor houses lining the road and even have a Pint in the 16th Century Sondes Arms Public House. – by Dave at the Silver Backpacker  Beautiful castles in England to visit include Rockingham Castle, one of the castles in East Midlands (Image credit: Silver Backpacker).

Shrewsbury Castle

Shrewsbury is a very historic town in the county of Shropshire and at the heart of it is the castle. Shrewsbury castle dates back to 1067 just after the Norman conquest, thus it has quite a story to tell. The Castle is a key attraction in Shrewsbury and is one of the first thing visitors see when arriving by train or road. They built Shrewsbury castle with red sandstone on some higher ground overlooking the River Severn. Shrewsbury castle dates back to 1067 when William the Conqueror ordered it to be built. William aimed to use it as a defensive fortification and base of operations for forays into Wales. The castle is open to visitors to explore the castle grounds or visit the Shropshire Regimental museum that calls the castle home. The museum is very interesting and contains uniforms, weapons and medals relating to the regiment. In the basement, there is an exhibit is about the castle’s history which is interesting. The grounds and outer fortifications are a haven for photographers and artists, these are free to explore. However, to enter the principal building and museum costs £4.50 for adults or £2 for children. There are also lots of things to see and do in Shrewsbury , a great town if you enjoy seeing historical buildings.

– Richard Meek of RJ on Tour

Tutbury Castle

Tutbury Castle , located in the Staffordshire countryside offers a fascinating opportunity to explore castle ruins whilst it is still being discovered. Large parts of this castle are still being unearthed, its fascinating history being pieced together, telling stories of British Kings and Queens. Following the Norman invasion Tutbury Castle was originally built in 1071. The castle later became an important medieval fortress in the rebellion against Henry II. It is currently owned by the Duchy of Lancaster. It is best known for being Mary Queen of Scots prison. She was imprisoned at Tutbury several times by Queen Elizabeth I. Its hillside location in the middle of the country far away from Scotland meant guards could easily watch for her supporters who may try to free her. The Castle is now a popular tourist attraction in the small town of Tutbury. The ruined walls are fascinating to explore and the views across the surrounding countryside to the River Dove are breathtaking. It is home to an authentic Tudor Garden and the “haunted” Great Hall. It is just £2.50 to visit and there’s a lovely tea room and bar during weekend evenings. Tutbury holds regular events such as historic re-enactments and fireworks displays and can be booked as a unique wedding venue.

– by Karen Quinn of Marvelous Middle England

Warwick Castle

Warwick castle is a majestic English castle located along river Avon in Warwickshire. Founded by William the conquerer, the castle holds a rich thousand year history in its sleeve. Several wars have been fought around the castle. Many kings and famous people have been hosted as guests and struggled as prisoners. There are plenty of things to do inside the castle, enough to keep you occupied for a day. And if you are travelling as a family, there are interesting things to keep the kids occupied. Don’t miss out the Horrible Histories Maze, Princess tower, Trebuchet, and Castle dungeons. Explore the tower and ramparts and soak in the views from the castle. If you are travelling with a young princess, don’t forget to get the timed tickets for Princess Tower. The Trebuchet in the castle is one of the largest replica siege machines in the world. Don’t miss out the live demonstration of Trebuchet. The castle gardens are huge so be sure to picnic if the weather is good. There are also seasonal shows that run in the castle. Be sure to check their website for up-to-date information. Warwick can be explored by car or public transport. It is only 15 minutes from Stratford upon Avon and 45 minutes drive from Birmingham.

by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

The Best Castles in Northern England

In terms of castles, Northern England seems full of them. In fact, Northumberland has the most castles of any county in England. The troublesome Scots were always raiding from across the border which explains all the castles in Northern England.

Alnwick Castle

Dating from Norman times, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Duke’s of Northumberland for the last 700 years. As England’s second largest inhabited castle (after Windsor Castle), Alnwick holds an important defensive position in the north of the country on the border with the Scots.

One of the best castles of England, Alnwick Castle rose to fame as the setting for Hogwarts on the Harry Potter movie series. Alnwick Castle has also been featured in the Downton Abbey film as well.

There is plenty to see and to do in Alnwick Castle including a large collection of Old Masters collected by the Dukes over the years. The Alnwick Castle gardens are extensive and the latest Duchess has created an intriguing Poison Garden.

Alnwick Castle is great with children too. There is broomstick training for Harry Potter fans, Peterkin the Jester demonstrates medieval comedy and Knight School for budding wannabe knights.

Bamburgh Castle

You really can’t miss Bamburgh Castle on Northumberland’s coast, it towers over the village of Bamburgh, holding an incredible defensive position with marvellous views to both Holy Island and the Farne Islands. There has been a defensive building here since the Celtic fort of the year 420 and today’s Grade I listed building dates from Norman times, passing eventually into the ownership of the Armstrong family in 1894 where it remains now.  The castle has been used as a private residence, a free school and a pharmacy over the years and can be seen for miles around. There’s a lot to see within Bamburgh Castle and you should plan a full day to visit, have lunch at the café or bring a picnic, there’s lots of space here to enjoy the magnificent views from the walls and gardens.  There are even apartments that can be rented as holiday lets. Tickets to Bamburgh Castle cover access to all the open areas and there are fabulous activities for families during school holidays and weekends too. The State Rooms are particularly beautiful and kids will have great fun dressing up in the armour and chain mail. A visit to Bamburgh Castle is one of the top things to do in Northumberland , England’s most northerly county and shouldn’t be missed!

– by Sarah Carter at A Social Nomad

Chillingham Castle

Dating back to the 12 th  century, Chillingham Castle in the North of England was initially built as a monastery. It is still owned by descendants of the Chillingham family.

It was used as a fortress for English armies during the England and Scotland border wars. Plenty of captured soldiers were kept and tortured in the dungeons and are said to have never left. Chillingham Castle is notorious for being the most haunted castle in England .

Now, parts of Chillingham Castle England are open to the public for tours. The tours include a display medieval torture instruments. It’s also possible to spend the night in one of the eight en-suite rooms located inside the castle.

We took a ghost tour of Chillingham Castle and sadly did not encounter any paranormal phenomena.

Dunstanburgh Castle

The ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle are managed by the National Trust. Built in the 14th century, Dunstanburgh was built to show off positively in comparison to nearby Bamburgh Castle.

Dunstanburgh Castle was strategically important during the War of the Roses of the 15th century. The castle never recovered from these battles and fell into disrepair. When the Scottish and English thrones merged, the importance of castles in Northern England fell away.

The ruins of this most beautiful castle in England, standing in its isolated grandeur on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, attracted artists to feature it in their works. J.M.W. Turner featured Dunstanburgh Castle heavily in his works.

You can visit the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle by a 1.5 mile coastal walk from nearby Craster. Alnwick Castle is a mere 8 miles away.

Durham Castle

The city of Durham is about 220 kilometers away from Edinburgh and merely 30 kilometres away from Newcastle upon Tyne. It is a university city with historic Romanesque features in England that may not be known to a lot of tourists. However, Durham is perfect for a day trip from Edinburgh or Newcastle upon Tyne. Take a train in the Waverley Station getting there from Edinburgh, trains depart every hour and the journey takes about two hours. The city’s skyline is defined by the striking Durham Cathedral, which has a history of over one thousand years. Together with the Durham Castle on the opposite side, these UNESCO World Heritage Site are open to the public for free unless they are used for ceremonies and events, including the congregation of Durham University. The Durham Castle is a Norman castle dated back to the year 1072; it was previously the residence of the Bishops of Durham, and a fine example of Norman architecture of citadel – round arches and massive proportions. Today, the castle served as a museum, and part of Durham University’s campus and dormitory, which visitors may take a guided tour to see the chapels and halls. – by Kenny Chow of Knycx Journeying Durham Castle, one of the best castles of England to visit (Image credit: Kenny Chow)

Raby Castle

Raby Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in England, has a picture perfect setting among a couple of hundred acres of deer park near Durham England. The castle is still privately owned by the Barons Barnard.

Raby Castle has a famous collection of paintings, including Old Masters, that have been collected by the owners. For children, there is a woodland adventure playground as well as special events, like open air cinemas and theatre, that are held at Raby Castle.

Raby Castle has appeared on film inthe 1999 Oscar-winning movie Elizabeth and the television drama series, Victoria .

Raby Castle is only open to the public during the summer. You can visit on your own or through a guided tour. The gardens are extensive with both a walled garden and a kitchen garden. You can rent bikes to pedal through the parkland to see the deer up close.

Ripley Castle

Ripley Castle, a 14th century castle located near Harrogate and the Yorkshire Dales, has been owned by the Barons Ingilby for 7 centuries. That’s 26 generations of the family that have called this place home!

Ripley Castle is open to the public for guided tours including a special children’s guided tour geared towards making a castle tour fun. It’s one of the castles in the best castles in England if you want to see a priest’s hiding hole.

The castle grounds are extensive and include various gardens like a walled garden and hothouses for a tropical garden. Ripley Castle puts on special events like the House & Garden Fair and outdoor concerts. The castle grounds are home to the national Hyacinth collection.

The grounds are also great for kids because there are a lot of outdoor activities available, such as archery and kayaking. The park walk is beautiful and includes deer (naturally) and an ornamental lake.

Skipton Castle

The Yorkshire market town of Skipton isn’t necessarily the first place you would think of when considering grand castles in England. And granted, Skipton’s offering is more about functionality rather than finery, but it is definitely not one to overlook. At over 900 years old, Skipton Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. On your visit, you will have a unique opportunity to explore the whole castle from top to bottom. Some notable highlights include the grand Banqueting Hall, the impressive Bedchamber, and the depths of the dungeon. Your tour is self-guided using a comprehensive information sheet, which is available in 10 different languages. Along the journey, you will discover how Skipton Castle was able to survive a three-year siege during the Civil War. You can also admire the pretty yew tree in the courtyard that was planted in 1659 to celebrate the restoration of the castle. To make the most of your visit to Skipton, you will also want to spend some time exploring the quaint market town. It is full of independent stores and a bustling market feel. You can also explore Skipton Castle Woods, a 36-acre ancient woodland, now maintained by the Woodland Trust. – by Hannah Ackroyd of  Get Lost Travel Blog

Spofforth Castle

Spofforth Castle was once the seat of the prominent Percy family who now have a seat at Alnwick Castle further north in Northumberland. Although riginally constructed in the 11th century, the ruins seen today date back only to renovations done in the 14th and 15th-century.

Entry to the ruins of Spofforth is free. Spofforth Castle has an important backstory since it is where the rebel barons met to write the Magna Carta, a charter of rights for the nobles that has become an important part of the British constitution. The barons then went south to meet King John at Runnymede to force his hand.

Any castle ruins this old is bound to have a ghost story or two. People have reported seeing the figure of a phantom woman throwing herself from the ramparts in despair.

Wray Castle

Despite its name, Wray Castle is not actually a castle. It is a private home that was built in the Gothic Revival Style in 1840 along the shores of Lake Windermere in Low Wray, England. Wray Castle is possibly most famous as the holiday and summer home of Beatrix Potter, the author of “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” Visitors can explore Wray Castle’s elaborate hall, private rooms, towers, turrets, and more. While none of the original furniture remains, many photos of the original home are prominently displayed. The castle also has mock ruins, hidden doors, and the Peter Rabbit Adventure to explore. Outside, visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk along the shore of Lake Windermere. There is also a cafe on-site, with large grounds and gardens to explore while enjoying a treat. The Castle is easily accessible via car from the nearby town of Ambleside. Parking at Wray Castle ranges from £5 (6.94 USD) for two hours up to £7.5 ($10.41 USD) for four or more hours. Visitors can take a fifteen cruise from Waterhead Pier, just outside Ambleside. Note: because of COVID-19, there are limited cruises being offered. It would be best to check what cruises are available while planning your trip. Visiting the grounds outside Wray Castle is free, with pets welcome to explore the area. Entrance to the Castle will cost you £10.40 ($14.45 USD) for adults and £5.20 ($7.22) for children. Wray Castle offers a group discount for groups of at least fifteen people. The most popular time to visit Wray Castle is during the summer. The warm evenings make watching the sunset nearly magical. Wray Castle is open year-round and hosts several seasonal events. No matter when you visit, Wray Castle is a destination not to be missed. – by Catalin Geangos from Travel Trained

The Best Castles of Southern England

There’s a variety of castles in Southern England to visit from the haunted ruins of Berry Pomeroy Castle in Devon to the world class art contained at Longford Castle in Wiltshire. Then there are the castles in Southwest England that are tied to legend (Tintagel Castle) or located on their own island (Mount Saint Michael).

Berry Pomeroy Castle

Although maintained by English Heritage, Berry Pomeroy is still owned by the Dukes of Somerset.

Berry Pomeroy Castle was built in the 15th century to keep order in the area because Devon at the time was hotbed of unrest.

The Pomeroy sold it to the Seymours (the Dukes of Somerset) eventually. The Duke of Somerset was the Lord Protector for England because his nephew, Henry VIII’s son, Edward VI, was still a young boy. The Seymours kept enlarging it because they wanted to show their wealth and power. Then the Seymours abandoned Berry Pomeroy without actually finishing it.

Berry Pomeroy was a favourite of the Victorians who loved their romantic ruined castles. Lots of ghost stories were promoted about Berry Pomeroy Castle which still lead people to believe that it is haunted today.

Berry Pomeroy is a short distance from both Dartmouth Castle and Totnes Castle. The castle ruins are cool and the grounds are great for exploring.

Carisbrooke Castle

If you’re looking for the best castles in England you can’t miss Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight. This evocative stone building has had various uses through the centuries, from fortress, a king’s prison right through to a royal summer retreat. Carisbrooke has been a key building on the Isle of Wight for over 1000 years. It’s probably most famous for being the prison of Charles I who was held here during the Civil War before being taken back to the mainland for his execution. Charles I attempted to escape from the castle but wasn’t able to get through the bars. It’s very atmospheric to see where he would have been held and how desperate he must have felt. Today you can have a picnic on his bowling green which he had constructed. If you’re visiting on a family holiday to the Isle of Wight , the castle put on lots of events which kids will love. Visitors of all ages will enjoy winding their way through the rooms and discovering history through the ages in the various quarters. Walk along the battlements for some of the best views of the Isle of Wight. Carisbrooke also have a relatively new garden designed by the award winning garden designer Chris Beardhsaw, the Princess Beatrice Garden which is inspired by Edwardian times. So even today it is evolving and giving so much pleasure to countless visitors.

– by Nichola West at Globalmouse Travels

Corfe Castle

Built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, Corfe castle is one of the most beautiful castles in England. Located in the stunning Dorset countryside, this picturesque castle is part of the Purbeck Heritage Coast. Once upon a time, this castle stood at the top of the hill as a sturdy fort, yet now only ruins remain. However, these ruins are some of the most beautiful castle ruins around, making this site one of the most visited historic structures in the whole of England. With over a thousand years of history, this castle is an epic day out for everyone. From children to adults everyone can enjoy the unique history lesson as well as the incredible scenery. We advise that the best way to visit Corfe castle is by staying at one of the quaint campsites in Swanage and taking the steam train to the castle. The heritage railway at Swanage is one of the most popular heritage railways in Britain, with trains running every day between April and October. You will love arriving at the train station in Corfe as it is a postcard-perfect station with magnificent views of the castle and takes just 22 minutes to get to from Swanage station. – by Breanne Fleat of Family Camping Europe

Dartmouth Castle

The salty remains of Dartmouth Castle cling to the cliffs above the entrance to the River Dart in South Devon. Unlike many English castles, it has never been home to kings or courtiers. But since the 14th Century it has played an important role in protecting the nearby port of Dartmouth. French raids were common in the area, so over the centuries towers and batteries were added to the fortifications, giving the guns longer range into the English Channel. A chain could also be drawn across the river mouth between Dartmouth Castle and Kingswear to stop unwelcome vessels entering. Today you can visit the castle’s battery, casemates and gun tower where troops were stationed periodically right up until the Second World War. It’s also fascinating to wander around the gravestones of St Petrox Church, which has stood in the same location for nearly 200 years longer than the castle. One of this castle’s very best features are the panoramic views over the sea and down the River. Stand on the top of the gun tower and you’ll be able to see the Britannia Royal Naval College perched on the hill above Dartmouth and the comings and goings of hundreds of sailing boats. – by Claire Hall of Devon with Kids

Longford Castle

Salisbury is the perfect city to see an amazing English estate. It is the perfect English city and offers everything you’d expect from a travellers imagination from middle class town market to world class sites like the Salisbury Cathedral and Stonehenge as well as the spectacular Longford Castle. To get here, takes a quick 2 hour train ride from London Waterloo or Clapham Junction stations on South Western Railways. The best part is Salisbury is the beautiful Longford Castle. It is the same castle that is shown as the Castle of fictional Genovia in Princess Diaries movies. In reality, however, it is the seat of the Earl of Radnor. It is one of the most beautiful castles in England and definitely worth a visit. It is built in a hexagonal shape with all towers linked to each other. The gardens around the castle are vast and beautiful and perfect for a summer picnic or an evening stroll. If you want to visit the castle you must book it in advance though through their website and the tours happen only 28 days a year. – by Ucman Scher of Brown Boy Travels Longford Castle is one of the best castles of Southern England thanks to its important art collection, some of which is on loan to the National Gallery in London. (Image credit: Ucman Scher)

Powderham Castle

One of the beautiful castles in England, Powderham Castle, has been owned by the same family for hundreds of years. Lying near Exeter in Devon, Powderham Castle was built in the 14th century. 

Powderham started off as a fortified manor house and got upgraded to the castle designation in the 17th century. It’s still missing elements that would make it a proper castle like a moat even though castle-like elements were added in the 19th century.

There are plenty of things to do in Powderham Castle. You can take tours of the castle interiors, and visit the gardens. There are guided tours of the gardens or alternatively, just go on a ramble of the grounds. Among the gardens to see are the walled garden, the American garden, the rose garden and the secret garden. The Belvedere Tower on the grounds, formerly used as a ballroom, gives great views over the countryside.

You may recognise Powderham Castle from the 1993 movie, The Remains of the Day .

Saint Michaels Mount

Saint Michael’s Mount located in Cornwall, is one of the rare tidal islands in the U.K. that you can get to via a short walk. When the tide is high, the island sits detached from land, in the middle of the sea and is inaccessible. Located in Mount’s Bay near Marazion in Cornwall, the pathway to get to the island is actually man-made and can be used when the tide is low. The island is managed by the National Trust and contains a castle, chapel, and gardens. St. Michaels Mount, which looks quite similar to the Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, France, is actually its cornish equivalent. Legend has it that the castle here was home to Cormoran the giant, of Jack the giant slayer fame. Till date, some believe that the boulders and scattered tree trunks around are due to the giant! Currently owned by the St Aubyn family, the castle has quirky items scattered all over. There’s a clock that tells the time of the tide as well as the time of day, a piece of Napoleon’s coat which he wore at the battle of Waterloo and even a mummified cat! It is also believed that St. Michaels Mount is haunted so if you like such places, the legend, history and all the mystery make it a must visit!

– by Lavinia Dsouza at Continent Hop

Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle is a beautiful attraction in the Cotswolds AONB in England. Located near the village of Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle is a great place to spend a few hours while in the area. The history of the castle dates back to the 15th century and is associated with King Edward IV, King Richard III and King Henry VIII, and is also the burial place of a queen. The long and trembling history of the place is explained in detail in the indoor exhibition, while the Castle Rooms present an extensive collection of art pieces and other objects. Outdoors, visitors to the castle will be able to enjoy a large area of green space, featuring several gardens with various flower collections. Wander in the White Garden, the Secret Garden or even the Ruins Garden that is created around the remains of an old section of the castle. Nested in the gardens, you will find St Mary’s church. It is a small church that was hugely destroyed during the Civil War and it was restored in the 19th century. Bird enthusiasts will be able to find more than ten species of pheasants, many of which are globally endangered in the outdoor pheasantry. The easiest way to reach Sudeley Castle is by car; however, it is still possible to visit it using public transport. To do so, you need to take the train or bus to Cheltenham Spa, and from there you need to take bus W to Winchcombe. The castle is about 15 minutes on foot from there.

– by Elina Michaelidou at Empnefsys & Travel

Tintagel Castle

There is something magical and evocative about the medieval fortification that is Tintagel Castle . Set on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, the ruined Tintagel Castle is managed by English Heritage and has been open to tourists since the middle of 19th century. Built in 1233 by Earl Richard, the castle is prominently known for its connection to the legendary King Arthur. After Earl Richard, Edward, the 1st Duke of Cornwall, reworked the hall into smaller buildings. But over the years the castle remained largely deserted and became dilapidated as the following Earls of Cornwall were not interested in it. It was only in the 19th century that interest was renewed in the castle ruins, mainly due to Arthurian legends, and it became a tourist attraction. Today, visitors can follow in the footsteps of Tintagel’s medieval inhabitants, explore the ruins, enjoy outdoor works of art, take in the stunning scenery or relax on the lovely beach below the castle. Because of its clifftop location, there are some steep slopes and uneven surfaces to reach the top. But the dramatic views more than make up for the not-so-easy climb up. After you are done exploring, you can head to the Beach Café to enjoy tasty local dishes while enjoying the views out to the sea.

– by Deeptha at The Globetrotter

Star Castle

Visiting the Scilly Isles? Star Castle Hotel is a must – whether you stay or just go for afternoon tea.

Built in the reign of Elizabeth I in 1583, it was intended to provide fortification and an early sighting of potential Spanish invaders! Thanks to its island setting, it became a Royalist stronghold and was a refuge for the Prince of Wales (later crowned Charles II) in 1643.

Now, it’s a charmingly restored hotel with the dungeon converted to a bar and with quirky rooms where you can stay in the look-out towers.

– by Fiona Maclean of London Unattached

Map of the Best Castles in England

Here’s a map for your planning convenience that shows the best castles of England that are more than a day trip from London. Our choices of the best castles in England including beautiful castles in East Anglia, castles in East Midlands, castles in West Midlands, castles in Northern England and castles in Southern England.

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• Where to go in North East England

5 Castles To Visit in the North East of England

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• September 1, 2022 5 villages to visit in the North East of England

• The North East

I don’t know about you, but when I think of England one of the first things that comes to mind are our castles surrounded by stunning countryside views. We may be a small island, but we’re rich in history...the kings and queens of our past, the battles they fought, it’s all encapsulated in our fairytale-like castles and fearsome fortresses. 

The only thing is, with having so many castles, sometimes it can be tricky choosing where to visit first! So we’ve put together a little check list of must visit northern castles - whether it’s a day trip or a weekend away, I’m sure you’ll be planning your next excursion before you’ve even finished reading! 

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle has stood guard above the spectacular Northumberland coastline for over 1,400 years. Spanning nine acres of land on its rocky plateau, Bamburgh Castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. It is one of the most majestic and impressive castles in North England.

Archaeologists often dig here in the summer as there is evidence of settlements on the site from long before the current castle was built. Bamburgh Castle is the ancient home of the Kings of Northumbria, who you can learn more about at the exhibitions in the castle. After visiting, be sure to take a walk on the beach behind the castle or head to the nearby town of Seahouses for fish and chips.

Tynemouth Priory And Castle

Once one of the largest fortified areas in England, Tynemouth Priory overlooks both the North Sea and River Tyne. The ruins you can now see date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, but this place has more than 2,000 years of history.

It has been constantly repurposed since its beginnings as an Anglo-Saxon settlement, later becoming an Anglican monastery, royal castle, and artillery fort.

You can still see the refurbished battery gun that defended the Tyne in both world wars of the 20th century. After visiting the priory, the charming village of Tynemouth has lots of independent cafes and shops, as well as two excellent beaches (and one of our favourite outdoor restaurants - Riley's Fish Shack ).

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is one of the largest, most iconic castles and one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the North East of England. Famous not only for it’s impressive exterior, but for starring on screen as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey and as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films.

Alnwick Castle has over 950 years of history and the origins of the Castle date back to the Norman period. Since 1309, it’s been home to the Percy family, a family with a history as illustrious as the castle’s own. The 12th Duke and Duchess still live there to this day.

Visitors to Alnwick can enjoy daily tours of the opulent State Rooms, as well as appointment-only views of the impressive collection of art and artefacts housed here. For film and history buffs, the castle has year-round activities and inventions including medieval games, the Dragon Quest and even flying lessons in the exact spot that Harry Potter and friends first took to their brooms!

Raby Castle

Set in the heart of the beautiful Durham Dales, Raby Castle is one of the finest and best-preserved medieval castles in North East England. Built in the14th century by the powerful Nevill family, it has a fascinating history. 

Raby Castle is a picture-perfect example of medieval architecture; with turrets, embattled walls and a fortress which boasts nine towers. Though it’s not only worth a visit for the castle itself but the surrounding woodland and deer park. The 200-acre parkland has traditional walled gardens, herds of red and fallow deer, and you can even rent a bike to discover the woodland trails.

Lindisfarne Castle 

Lindisfarne Castle sits on Holy Island in Northumberland; which gets cut off from the rest of the UK several times a day and is only accessible from the mainland only during low-tides via a causeway (make sure to check the tide times before committing to visiting this castle).

There was a monastery on the island long before the castle, which was built in the 16th century by Henry VIII; meant as a defensive fort between Scotland and England. The island itself has a steep history, in fact, it’s said that the Viking Age truly began here when the Vikings invaded. 

The castle fell into ruin but was restored in the 20th century to be a private holiday home. Now, the castle is managed by the National Trust and is open to the public and showcases the history of the island.

The view from the top is truly magnificent - sited atop the volcanic mound known as Beblowe Craig, Lindisfarne Castle is one of the most distinctive and picturesque features of the Island and can be seen for many miles around.

Did you know Lindisfarne Castle and Holy Island are the setting for the very first LJ Ross DCI Ryan novel ?

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The 10 best places to visit in the north east of england.

The North East of England is a treasure trove of Britain's finest historic houses & gardens. Here we look at the best places to visit in the region.

If you love castles and stately homes, a visit to the North East of England ticks all the boxes. From Alnwick Castle – as also seen in the Harry Potter franchise, to Raby Castle, Brancepeth Castle and Chipchase Castle, among others, the North East of England is the perfect day out for lovers of historic houses and gardens. See our top eleven suggestions for places to visit below, or view a map of the houses and gardens in the region here .

County Durham

Brancepeth Castle, Brancepeth

Brancepeth Castle was the stronghold of the Neville family in medieval times. The Battle of Neville’s Cross, between England and Scotland, was planned in the castle’s Baron’s Hall.

The Nevilles forfeited their estates after the failed Rising of the North, and the Castle went through a number of hands before being bought by the wealthy Russell family in the late 18th-century.

Raby Castle, Darlington

This impressive and complete 14th-century fortress of the powerful Nevills, with nine towers set in 200 acres of landscaped deer park and picturesque walled garden, has been home to Lord & Lady Barnard’s family since 1626.

Victorian restoration by Burn includes the Octagon Drawing Room and extensions of the Barons’ Hall to 132-ft.

Rokeby Park, Barnard Castle

Completed in 1735 by its owner, Sir Thomas Robinson, a leading amateur architect of his day, Rokeby Park represents the heyday of the Palladian-style country house.

A unique collection of 18th century needlework pictures by Anne Morritt (1726 – 1797) are on display as well as a very rare surviving print room. Velásquez’s ‘Toilet of Venus’ hung at Rokeby for almost a century until it was bought by public subscription in 1905 and now hangs in the National Gallery. A copy of the ‘Rokeby Venus’, painted by W.A. Menzies, can be seen in The Saloon at Rokeby.

Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Garden, Durham

Situated in acres of immaculate gardens, the buildings feature outstanding examples of Georgian and Victorian Gothic architecture throughout the Main House and Chapels.

Established initially as a Catholic Seminary (known as Ushaw College/ St Cuthbert’s College, Ushaw) founded in 1808 from the former English Catholic College at Douai in France, it was purpose-built in its beautiful setting four miles from the City of Durham.

Explore the North East of England sustainably

You don’t have to jump in the car to explore the stunning historic houses and gardens of the North East, and we’re keen for you to explore alternative travel options to help us fight for a more sustainable future. We’ve therefore teamed up with Good Journey to help you find car-free options to explore the UK’s historic estates. Take a look at their website here.

Northumberland

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick

The origins of Alnwick Castle date back to the Norman period. Since 1309 its story has been intertwined with that of the Percy family, a family with a history as illustrious as the Castle’s own.

The exterior medieval castle is one of the finest in Britain – it was restored by Anthony Salvin in the mid-19th century. The interior includes lavish state rooms filled with excellent collection of Italian old masters and sculpture. The Castle is set in a wonderful park landscaped by Capability Brown.

Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh

With its origins in the Anglo-Saxon period, Bamburgh has dominated its volcanic outcrop and the surrounding countryside for centuries. From its humble wooden palisade to the impressive stone walls of today it strikes an iconic pose on the Northumbrian coastline.

Open all year round it welcomes visitors to enjoy the grounds and staterooms. From the medieval kitchen to grandeur of the Victorian Kings Hall there are fourteen rooms to explore.

Bywell Hall, Stocksfield

Home to the Beaumont family since 1810, the Palladian building sits by the River Tyne at Bywell, Northumberland.

The privately owned 18th-century country house is a Grade II* listed building set in extensive parkland and houses an important collection of furniture and art.

Chillingham Castle, Chillingham

Chillingham Castle is a 13th-century, Grade I listed stronghold in Northumberland, famed for action and battles. With its fine rooms, gardens, lakes, fountains and tea rooms, the castle has an extraordinary ownership bloodline which runs back to the 1200s.

Just twenty minutes from the seaside, this romantic and thriving castle is perfect for short breaks or family days out! Or if you’re looking for a more chilling experience, as one of the most haunted castles in England, our ‘Torture Chamber’ and evening Ghost Tours are sure to entertain.

Chipchase Castle, Hexham

Chipchase Castle is a  rugged border castle of the 14th century consisting of a great Pele tower with corner turrets.

The castle was added to later in the 1620s and more comfortable lodgings which were themselves altered in the mid-18th century. In the mid-19th century dining room furniture by Mein of Kelso was installed.

Preston Tower, Chathill

The Preston pele tower, which is owned by GJ Baker Cresswell, was built between 1392 and 1399, when warfare between England and Scotland was endemic.

At the time of Agincourt (1415) it was one of 78 Pele Towers in Northumberland. Its owners included Sir Guiscard Harbottle, who was slain fighting against James IV at the battle of Flodden in 1513, the conflict that brought Mary, Queen of Scots to the Scottish throne.

Events in the North East

Don’t just visit historic houses and gardens. Experience them. There simply is no better place to attend a concert, watch an outdoor film screening, peruse a plant fair, or admire vintage cars than at a historic house or garden. Here, you can view a regularly updated list of the best events you can attend in the North East over the coming weeks and months.

Explore other UK regions

Best Places to Visit in Wales

The 14 Best Places to Visit in the West Midlands

The 20 Best Places to Visit in Yorkshire

The 21 Best Places to Visit in the East of England

The 24 Best Places to Visit in the East Midlands

The 28 Best Places to Visit in the North West of England

The 4 Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

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The 53 Best Places to Visit in the South West of England

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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!

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15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit

England is an incredible country to explore. We’ve got some stunning history, beautiful villages and gorgeous national parks that dotted all across the lands. That being said, sometimes, the best places in the north of England are forgotten in lieu of amazing cities like London or the pretty spots in the south of England .

That being said, the north of England is pretty vast, with a whole heap of beautiful places to explore. This is exactly why I wanted to share some of my favourite and best places in the north of England to visit on your next trip.

Now, for clarity, there’s no real defining line of what constitutes, north and south England, it seems like everyone has their own cutoffs of where this border exists. To make things simpler, I’m going on the notion that anything lower than the Peak District National Park is south.

With that in mind, take a look below at the best places in the north of England to see. Have the best trip around England, we really have a beautiful country. 

1.) The Lake District

One of the UNESCO protected national parks , the Lake District is one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you love the countryside. Consisting of around sixteen lakes, the Lake District is filled with stunning mountains, rolling hills and a heap of lakes that are nestled within the countryside.

Now, with the Lake District, you do have ‘popular’ lakes and some that are much quieter. For me, I prefer the quiet ones like Ullswater Lake that is totally pristine.

Here, you can head out paddleboarding, hiking and even take the historic Ullswater Steamer that crosses the lake itself. 

That being said, don’t forget Windermere Lake, too. It’s probably the most famous lake in the Lake District with plenty of little places to explore around the shores. 

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

Perched on the north-east coast of England, Whitby is a pretty historic fishing town to visit. 

The town’s skyline is overlooked by the historical ruins of Whitby Abbey, a gothic structure which inspired Bram Stoker to write his classic horror masterpiece, Dracula. They’re incredible to see and easily one of the best places in the north of England to see if you love history. 

Afterwards, pop over some classic fish and chips from the Magpie Cafe. For dinner, don’t forget the Star Inn (the harbour) for some yummy fresh seafood and local treats. 

Finally, if you fancy a little jaunt from the town itself, head over to Robin Hood’s Bay , it’s a stunning little smugglers village that is so beautiful to see. 

Read more: Visiting Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay

3.)The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Nestled on a small tidal island off the coast of Northumberland, the holy island of Lindisfarne is beautiful to see.

First off, to get here, you have to pay attention to the tides, each day, the island gets cut off from the mainland when the sea washes over the road. Only ever attempt to travel this road when it is safe to do so as your car can get washed away. You can see the safe crossing times, here . 

Once you’ve got over to the island, make sure to spend some time exploring the historic abbey, head to the Lindisfarne Castle and have a tipple of Lindisfarne Mead that has been made on the island for centuries. The island itself is steeped in history and is considered the starting point for the Viking Age in northern Europe. 

It really is one of the best places in the north of England to explore ancient beauty and history. 

Read more: Visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

York is one of the oldest cities in England and easily one of the best places in the north of England to visit whilst you’re here. Honestly, York itself is absolutely teeming with history and dates way back over a thousand years. 

Once you arrive, make sure to visit and explore York Minster , a cathedral that dates back to the 13 th century. Here, you can even climb the stairs to the roof, with a lovely view across York itself.

Also, don’t forget Clifford’s Tower and the Castle museum nearby. Afterwards, rent your own little red boat and charter the river that runs through the city. Afterwards, take a little road down the medieval street called the Shambles and explore the totally quaint side of York. 

Finally, for some amazing food, head over to Skosh or Roots that both have some of the tastiest grub in the city. You won’t be disappointed with either of them. 

Oh yeah, and if you fancy a little jaunt from the city, head across to Castle Howard that is about 25-minutes in the car from the centre. It’s huge and totally magnificent to see. 

Read more: Best things to do in York

5.) Bamburgh

Nestled on the pristine coastline of Northumberland, Bamburgh is a tiny little place that has some of the best coastline and castle around. Only about 60-minutes from the Holy Island , it’s quite easy to partner a trip to Bamburgh with a wider trip across Northumberland. 

As soon as you arrive, make sure to wander around the little town and make reservations for dinner at the Potted Lobster. It’s so yummy and they serve the best local seafood. Afterwards, head on over to Bamburgh Castle itself and explore the ancient history of this gorgeous place. Finally, take some time to enjoy the stunning beaches around the castle, too. They’re totally pristine and offer some gorgeous views over the castle itself.

Finally, if you fancy going on a little adventure, pop over to the uninhabited Farne Islands on a boat. You might even see whales or puffins during your trip. 

Honestly, if you love castles, you’ll easily find Bamburgh one of the best places in the north of England to visit. 

Read more: Visiting Bamburgh Castle

6.) Peak District 

The Peak District National Park is the oldest national park in the UK and one of the best places in the north of England to explore. 

Once here, make sure to explore Winnats Pass and discover the underground river on a tiny boat. Afterwards, head across to the plague village of Eyam and learn about this isolated community during the plague. 

Afterwards, check into your own safari-style lodge that is just so cosy with the wood burner roaring. 

Read more: Visiting the Peak District in England

7.) Scarborough

Nestled on the coast of the North Sea, Scarborough is a gorgeous town to visit for a weekend trip. 

Once here, head on through Peasholm Park and also explore the historic harbour that makes this spot so picturesque. Also, make sure to explore Scarborough Castle and visit St Mary’s Church where you can also see Anne Bronte’s final resting place. 

Finally, for a good spot of lunch, head over to the Green Room Brasserie which has some of the freshest dishes around. If it’s a traditional fish and chips you’re after, pop into the Lifeboat Fishbar – they serve some of the best on all the east coast. Scarborough really is one of the best places in the north of England to visit. 

Leeds is a pretty cool city to visit in the north of England and an easy spot to explore when heading further north. 

Once here, make sure to explore the city centre and head to explore the Corn Exchange with all its little eateries and shops. Afterwards, head across to the arcades which are gorgeous to see. 

If that’s not your thing, head to Kirkstall Abbey (one of the largest in England) or even Harewood House (out of the centre) which was built in the 1700s.

Finally, for some tasty grub, head across to The Swine That Dines for a gorgeous dinner. 

That being said, if you want something quick and easy, pop into the Station House Cafe for some of the best Italian food in the city. It is one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you like a little city break. 

Read more: Best things to do in Leeds

The Market town of Malton is not too far from York and pretty easy to visit on your trip around this area. 

Now, one of the things that makes Malton so special is its foodie heritage. It might be a relatively small town but it’s got some of the best independent food spots in Yorkshire. Once here, head over to Roost for some of the best coffee in town and find McMillans for a tasty bottle to take home.

Afterwards, head to Florian Poirot (near Roost) for an incredible French bakery.

They make the most delicious sweet treats. Malton is certainly one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you’re a foodie. 

Read more: Visiting Malton in England

10.) Hebden Bridge

A whimsical little market town, Hebden Bridge’s Rochdale Canal is a gorgeous spot to visit.

While, like most of northern England, the weather can be a little unpredictable (take your umbrella), Hebden Bridge is easily one of the best places in the north of England to explore.

Once here, head out on the 15 miles of footpaths and walkways around the Hardcastle Crags. That being said, if you’re feeling a little lazier, head to the Heptonstall Museum which has far less walking. 

After strolling the canal, pop over to Sowerby Bridge and gorge at Engine. The tapas-style plates are just so yummy. 

11.) Manchester

Being one of the larger cities in England , there’s a whole heap of amazing things to see and do whilst in Manchester . Plus, it’s one of the best places in the north of England to explore if you want a vibrant city.

You see, Manchester has a long history, which makes for some gorgeous places to explore. Once here, make sure to explore the Science and Industry Museum, see Old Trafford (if you’re a football fan), or check out the Manchester Art Gallery. The latter is stunning and a great thing to do if the weather takes a turn for the worst. 

Oh yeah, and if you fancy some nightlife, Canal Street is famous for being one of the oldest LGBT+ neighbourhoods in Europe, while the Northern Quarter has loads of trendy bars to explore. Also, for a tasty and juicy steak, pop into Fazenda Rodizio Bar which is gorge-worthy. You’ll leave stuffed. 

Also, for a great place to stay, check into Hotel Gotham which is unique. 

Read more: Best things to do in Manchester

12.) Haworth

An absolute must-visit for any literary lover, Haworth is home to the longtime home of the Bronte sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Ann.

While the girls worked under pen names, they released some tremendous successes which continue to resonate with readers today, including the classics Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre. You can visit the gravesite of the majority of the Bronte family at the Haworth Parish Church as well.

Although Haworth is pretty small, it’s a great place to spend a pit stop on your way further north (or south) for an hour or two. 

Read more: Pretty Places in the UK

13.) Liverpool

Of course, most people know Liverpool as the hometown of the Beatles, right? Liverpool is certainly one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you love the Beatles! That being said, there’s so much more to this city to experience.

After arriving, make sure to explore the waterfront (marked by a trio of buildings popularly known as the Three Graces). If that doesn’t float your boat, the Liverpool Cathedral is worth visiting for its stunning Gothic architecture, too.

Finally, head across to the Royal Albert Dock, visit the Beatles Story and visit the Walker Art Gallery, too.

Oh yeah, there’s also a shedload of yummy spots to grab a bite to eat, too! From high-end spots to a pint and some fish and chips at the local pub, Liverpool has a spot for everyone.

Now, for a tasty dinner, head across to the London Carriage Works. Once you arrive, make sure to try their incredible cocktails and seasonal menu. Their salted cod with clams is so good. 

Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool

14.) Chester

Originally constructed as a Roman fortress (almost two thousand years ago), Chester still maintains some of its Roman past in what remains of the city’s walls.

Now, with a city that’s so steeped in history, it’s easily become one of the best places in the north of England to see. Plus, it’s really easy to get to from the likes of Manchester or Liverpool.

Once here, make sure to explore Chester’s gothic cathedral and stroll along the Groves which are lovely. Oh yeah, the Old Town is worth a visit to gaze upon the black and white Tudor-style homes that line the streets too.

Afterwards, head across to visit the Grovesnor Museum or walk the city walls themselves. It’s the perfect thing to do before gorging at The Yard for their tasty seabass. 

Read more: Best things to do in Chester

15.) Durham

Based just west of Newcastle, Durham is pretty easy to get to from most places in the UK, especially by train. Now, although Durham is a relatively small city (as cities go), it’s still got a shedload of history and gorgeous things to do. 

After stepping off the train, head across to explore Durham Cathedral in all its glory. It’s so imposing and can’t be missed when visiting the city.

Afterwards, stop over to Durham Castle and learn more about the ancient history of this place. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the quaint Palace Green and see Finchale Priory (that sits outside the centre).

If it’s the food you’re after, pop into Cafedral (on Owengate) for some of the tastiest homemade cakes and buns. It really is one of the best places in the north of England just for the cakes alone! 

Read more: Best places in the UK to explore

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21 Best Castles in England That Will Take Your Breath Away!

• by Martina Kokesova
• July 15, 2021 May 3, 2024

Hey there, history buffs and castle enthusiasts! Did you know that England once boasted over four thousand castles? Surprisingly, while many have vanished into thin air, more than 800 medieval castles still proudly stand across the English landscape today . Some may show their age, while others stand proudly preserved, each telling tales of the island’s rich and wild past. These majestic fortresses aren’t just relics; they’re your tickets to a day filled with adventure. So, grab your bucket list and let’s dive into the best castles in England you should visit .

Whether you’re a history buff or just someone seeking an unforgettable day out, these British castles offer something extraordinary for everyone.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps to support and run our blog.

21 Best Castles in England to visit

Having lived in England for over 14 years, we’ve been fortunate to explore romantic ruins and fully mounted fortresses. Leveraging both guided tours and the freedom of our trusty car, we’ve unearthed some true treasures. Here, we are excited to share our firsthand experience and insider tips. These are the best 21 castles in England you absolutely need to visit .

Best Castles in England to visit in London

1. windsor castle.

Windsor Castle, located within the English county of Berkshire, was the main residence of Queen Elizabeth II until she died in 2022. Now, it’s the ownership of King Charles, but he doesn’t live there.

No visit to London would be complete without a visit to Windsor Castle . But why should you care about this old castle? Well, first, it’s old: it’s the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world . Can you believe it? It’s been around for almost 1,000 years, built by the legendary William the Conqueror . Originally it was a wooden mottle and bailey fortress and took 16 years to complete.

Over the centuries, Windsor Castle got a makeover. Henry III turned it into a luxurious home, and Edward III took it to the next level. He rebuilt and turned it from a military fortification into a beautiful Gothic palace fit for royalty. Since then, Windsor Castle has been home to 40 monarchs . It’s even the final resting place of 11 kings and queens .

Windsor Castle has stood strong – through thick and thin. It has seen it all wars and was nearly toasted in fire. Today, it is one of the hottest spots in England , attracting tourists like bees to honey.

Take a guided tour of the castle and see its opulent Semi-State Room s and State Apartments full of Rococo, Gothic and Baroque furnishings. Don’t miss the 15th-century St George’s Chapel : it’s basically a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Catch the iconic Changing of the Guards ceremony and see Queen Mary’s Doll House . Last, but not least, take a stroll down the Long Walk for some killer castle views.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Remember that Windsor Castle isn’t open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The opening times vary during the season. Also, because it is a working royal palace, sometimes the entire castle or the State Apartments are not open at short notice. Check Windsor Castle’s official website for more information to avoid disappointment.
• Generally, you can visit Windsor Castle  between 10 am and 3 pm during winter or until 4 pm during the peak season. Also, St George’s Chapel is open for visits only on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
• Entry tickets to Windsor Castle for adults cost £30 online or £33 at the gate as of May 2024. If you visit Windsor Castle with kids (5-7), expect to pay £15 online or £19.50 (18-24) for young people.

BUY YOUR TICKET TO WINDSOR CASTLE:

2. Tower of London

The Tower of London, a symbol of the nation, is steeped in dark history.

When it comes to the best castles in England to visit , the   Tower of London  takes the crown. Why, do you ask? This castle, proudly standing by the River Thames, boasts almost 1,000 years of fascinating history. It’s the symbol of monarchy ; it was also home to the Royal Mint and even had its own mini zoo !

But this royal residence and a fighting structure has also got a darker side. It’s a place where some queens got locked up. Sadly, unlucky three of them ended up losing their heads.

The Tower of London has been a prison for four queens of England.

Fast forward to today, the Tower of London still attracts the crowds. The Crown Jewels are a major draw – give yourself an hour to view them. And don’t forget to say hello to the Tower’s official mascots, the London Ravens .

• The Tower of London welcomes visitors daily from 9 am until 5.30 pm. The last slot is at 3.30 pm as of May 2024. Opening hours may vary on Mondays and Sundays during the low season.
• As of May 2024, entry tickets to the Tower of London cost £34.80 for adults and £17.40 for children aged 5 to 15.

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Best Castles in England to visit in the south of London

3. bodiam castle.

Bodiam Castle may be smaller than other fortifications, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character and beauty.

If you’re on the hunt for the most beautiful castles to visit in the Southern England , check out Bodiam Castle in East Sussex . This 14th-century fortress, surrounded by water, stands proudly like a character from a fairytale. Its dramatic setting, remote location and charming medieval vibes make it an irresistible destination. And don’t forget to pack a picnic – there is no better spot to enjoy it than on the grass, soaking in the castle’s gorgeous views.

Back in the day, Bodiam Castle was the home and fortress of a knight under King Edward III . He built it as his stronghold, protecting against the French invaders. While time has taken its toll on the castle’s interior, its exterior still impresses. Picture yourself strolling through the courtyard, gazing up at the towering walls. Discover unique features such as murder holes and gun loops for sighting and firing. And here’s a fascinating bit: did you know Bodiam Castle has a 600-year-old metal castle door , possibly one of the oldest in England ?

It isn’t just a pretty face.

And get this – Bodiam Castle is also famous for its unique design and circular towers. According to military historian Cathcart King, Bodiam Castle is the most complete surviving example of a quadrangular castle . Even though it isn’t as intact as it once was, this popular National Trust attraction remains one of the best examples of a moated castle .

• You can visit Bodiam Castle every day between 10 am–5 pm until 27th October 2024 (or until 3.30 pm afterwards).
• Ticket prices for Bodiam Castle vary throughout the year – check their official website. Parking and entry fees for Bodiam Castle are free for National Trust Members. Non-members pay £4 for parking as of May 2024.

Did you know Bodiam Castle is a bat hotspot? Yes, this castle is home to one of the most important bat roosts in the UK . Sometimes, parts of the castle might be off-limits. Why? Because when the bat pups are learning to spread their wings, they need some privacy. So, keep an eye out for closures during certain times of the year.

4. Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle, sitting proudly on the West Sussex hill, overlooking the scenic River Arun.

This fortified castle in the heart of Sussex has quite the story behind it. The first Earl of Arundel and a cousin of William the Conqueror , Roger de Montgomery built a mottle-and-bailey castle around 1067. The castle underwent many renovations and also damage throughout its long history. It earns a reputation for one of the bloodiest histories among English castles .

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Despite its medieval vibes, much of what you see at Arundel Castle is relatively new. After the English Civil War, the fortress underwent some serious renovations. The result? Thanks to some fancy reconstruction in Gothic style, Arundel Castle is today an excellent example of the great work of Victorian England .

And did we mention that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert spent a few days at Arundel Castle? Talk about royal approval, right?

Even though Arundel Castle is the family home to the Duke of Norfolk , it’s open to the public. So, take an opportunity to explore the fortress on your own. See its beautiful flowery gardens, rare paintings and gorgeously preserved rooms. Lose yourself in the past, enjoy stunning views of the South Downs National Park and marvel at the skills of falconers. Afterwards, don’t miss the chance to visit the prettiest village in West Sussex . Trust us, charming Amberley is definitely worth exploring.

• Remember – Arundel Castle is not open on Mondays, except on bank holidays and in August. The castle and its gardens are open from 28t March 2024 until 3rd November 2024.
• As of May 2024, the entry ticket to Arundel Castle, gardens, and bedrooms costs £29 for adults and £12 for children. If you want to visit only Arundel Castle Gardens, expect to pay £15 as of May 2024. You can explore Fitzalan Chapel, Keep and Gardens from 10 am and the castle rooms from 12 noon until 5 pm.

5. Hever Castle in England

If you find yourself in the South East of England, be sure to add Hever Castle to your must-visit list. This castle isn’t just any old fortress – one of England’s most influential families once called this place home.

Did you know Hever Castle was the childhood home of none other than Anne Boleyn , the infamous second wife of King Henry VIII? Yep, that’s right – the same Anne who changed the course of English history. While we can’t say for certain if Ann was born here, she grew up in the castle before they sent her off to the Netherlands for her education.

Here is where it gets juicy: After Anne, Hever Castle landed in the hands of another of Henry’s wives. Following their divorce, the castle came into the possession of wife number four – Anne of Cleves . Can you imagine the castle’s gossip back then?

Hever Castle is one of the best castles in England to visit, thanks to its royal connections and breathtaking surroundings .

Fast forward to today, Hever Castle is now a popular tourist attraction. It’s not hard to see why; it’s got everything – from stunning gardens to serene lakes and mazes. Plus, there is always something exciting happening here. Thrilling tournaments, archery displays, patchwork and quilting exhibitions, there is never a dull moment at Hever Castle.

• Privately-owned Hever Castle  is not part of the National Trust of English Heritage.
• Until  25th June  2024, entry tickets to Hever Castle and its gardens cost £22 online or £24.45 at the gate. After  25th June  2024, the prices increase to £23.35 online and £25.95 at the gate. Tickets for 2024 are available until  November 21st , as of May 2024.
• Hever Castle opens its doors daily at 12 pm, and its gardens welcome visitors from 10.30 am as of May 2024. Remember to check their official website for closures to avoid disappointment.

6. Leeds Castle

You’re wandering through the breathtaking countryside of Kent in Southern England, and suddenly, you stumble upon Leeds Castle . Wait, Leeds? Despite what the name suggests, it’s not in Leeds at all !

This impressive moated castle has been through quite a lot, starting as a Norman stronghold, then becoming a royal residence and even a royal palace. Way back in 857 AD, there was a Royal Manor owned by a Saxon royal family. But after the Norman Conquest, they built the first stone castle here. Fast forward to the 13th century, and boom – Leeds Castle became a royal palace for Edward I and his Queen, Eleanor of Castile . And let’s not forget its most famous resident – King Henry VIII . He transformed Leeds Castle for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon .

Many folks call Leeds Castle “ the Ladies Castle ”  since Catherine of Aragon and five other queens call it home throughout history.

The last owner of Leeds Castle was Lady Baillie in the 20th century. She said: “ Let’s make this place fabulous! ” and brought in French interior designers to give the castle a chic makeover. Plus, she set up the Leeds Castle Foundation to care for it. Thanks to her, Leeds Castle is a fairytale dream come true. It’s got stunning towers, beautiful extensive gardens, a lake, a mind-bending maze, and even a secret grotto .

• Leeds Castle is open every day during the year except for the 13th of July 2024, the 9th and 10th of November 2024 and Christmas Day.
• Opening times at Leeds Castle vary, but generally, you can visit it from 10 am – 5 pm (or 6 pm during the peak season). The last entry to the castle grounds and gardens is 2 hours before closing.
• As of May 2024, entry fee to Leeds Castle for adults costs £31.50 online or £35 at the gate. If you arrive with kids, expect to pay £50 online of £35 at the gate. And here is a fantastic part: you can revisit Leeds Castle for free all year. They also offer other tickets, such as Ultimate Explorer – check them on their official website.

BUY YOUR TICKETS AND EXPLORE LEEDS CASTLE:

3. Corfe Castle in England

Corfe Castle, a centuries-old fortress, now stands in ruins.

When you come across Corfe Castle in Dorset, you’ll quickly realize that it’s among the most romantic ruins in England . Now, you might be thinking – who built this pile of old rocks? It was none other than William the Conqueror in the 11th century. But Corfe Castle wasn’t just any average castle of its time. No, it was one of the first castles constructed at least partially from stone , while others were only mud and wood fortresses.

But Corfe Castle wasn’t just any old castle; it was a key player in England’s history. It survived the English Civil War and was partially destroyed by Parliamentarians in the 17th century. Even though Corfe Castle is now in ruins, it remains one of the best English castles. These charming ruins serve as a portal to a world of treachery and treason, where fallen walls whisper secrets of the past.

After exploring the castle, hike up to one of the nearby hills for breathtaking fortress views. It’s the perfect ending to your castle adventure.

• Opening times at Corfe Castle vary during the year, check their official website to avoid disappointment. Generally, you can visit the castle between 10 am and 5 pm (6pm in the summer).
• Corfe Castle is a National Trust attraction – its members can visit it for free. Otherwise, an entry ticket for adults costs £12 off-peak or £13 during the peak season. Kids pay £6 during the low season and £6.50 during the peak season as of May 2024.

8. Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle   is a newbie compared to some of its older siblings.

You’ve wrapped up your visit to Corfe Castle, and now you’re wondering, “ What next? ” Well, look no further than the stunning Highcliffe Castle, just an hour’s drive away. But what’s the story behind this castle, you may ask? Let’s break it down for you.

Charles Stuart, 1st Baron Stuart de Rothesay, crafted this masterpiece in the early 19th century. He went all in with the Romantic and Picturesque Gothic Revival style , infused with a delightful touch of French craftsmanship. Imagine medieval French masonry sailing across the Channel to find a new home in Highcliffe Castle. With its Grade 1 status and timeless stained glass, you’ve got a castle that looks like it’s been around for centuries.

Highcliffe Castle has witnessed it all – from lavish French Empire furnishings to meetings with royalty. Despite facing a few nasty fires, like a true Phoenix, it has risen from the ashes. Today,  it stands as beautiful as ever.

And let’s not overlook those gorgeous gardens , especially delightful during the warmer months. For the adventurous souls, a leisurely stroll to Highcliffe Beach promises breathtaking coastline views.

• Highcliffe Castle opens its doors daily except Fridays and Saturdays, from 10 am until 4 pm, as of May 2024. The castle grounds are open daily, from 7 am until 6.30 pm (November-March) and extend until 7.30 pm (April–October). You can explore Highcliffe Castle grounds until 9 pm in May and September and until 10 pm in June, July and August 2024.
• As of May 2024, entry tickets for adults to Highcliffe Castle cost £9, £3.20 for children aged 5 – 16, and students pay £8.50. You can also become a member for unlimited visits throughout the year.

9. St. Michael’s Mount

Did you know monks from Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy originally owned St Michael’s Mount? Today, St Michael’s Mount is a cosy home for the St Aubyn family and a community of islanders.

Now, why is St. Michael’s Mount so special? First, this rocky island, crowned by a medieval church and castle, looks like something out of a fairy tale. And get this – this pretty castle has a stunning subtropical terraced garden and legends so wild they’ll make your hair stand on end. St. Michael’s Mount has been a monastery, a fortress, and even a hotspot for pilgrims seeking spiritual comfort. Talk about a castle with a career change.

Now, let’s talk location. This isn’t your average castle perched on a hill. Oh no, this beauty sits proudly on a rocky offshore island and getting there is half the adventure . When the tide is low , you can stroll to the island on a man-made cobblestone causeway . When the water rises, watch out, hop on a small boat and cruise your way to the island in style.

• Remember Michael’s Mount closes for the winter, and it might even bail on you if the weather’s not playing nice. Can’t blame it, though; who wants to deal with rain and wind? So, if you’re planning a visit, keep an eye on the forecast.
• Michael’s Mount is a National Trust attraction , and its members have free entry. But don’t forget to book your free timed ticket on their website. Otherwise, adults pay £15 for the castle, £11 for the garden or £26 for a combination ticket as of May 2024. If you visit with children (5-7 years), expect to pay £7.50 for a castle, £6.50 for its garden or £14 for a combination ticket.
• Don’t forget to check out opening times on their St. Michael’s Mount website to avoid disappointment. Generally, you cannot visit it on Saturdays and also its garden on Sundays. Also, you can visit St. Michael’s Mount Gardens only between the 1st of May and the 30th of August 2024 between 9.45 am and 3.45 pm.

If you plan to visit St. Michael’s Mount by boat, plan ahead of time because access by boat is available only a few days each month.

10. Herstmonceux Castle

This red-bricked wonder from the 15th century is not your average stone fortress. That’s right, this bad boy stands out with its flashy red brick design, making it one of the oldest brick buildings still standing in England . And get this, the moated castle has never been in a battle or siege. Why, do you ask? It’s because Herstmonceux Castle was originally a classy manor house.

Once you’re done touring the castle grounds, explore its themed gardens and meadows. Stroll through its lush flowery gardens, each corner telling its own story. After exploring the castle grounds, don’t miss the opportunity to wander along the woodland trail. They offer stunning views of the castle nestled in the East Sussex countryside .

• Herstmonceux Castle typically closes during the winter season and reopens after May 1st, 2024. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on opening times – visit their official website. Its gardens and grounds are usually saturated due to the heavy rainfall in the winter. As of May 2024, Herstmonceux Castle opens its doors daily from 10 am until 5.30 pm, as of May 2024.
• As of May 2024, adult tickets to Herstmonceux Castle costs £8 and £3.50 for children (aged 4-17).

11. Dover Castle

Dover is famous for many reasons, and Dover Castle is one of them.

This fortress by the sea isn’t just big; it’s one of the largest in England and ranks high among the best castles in England. Over the centuries, Dover Castle has protected the southeastern shores like a guardian angel. This 11th-century hillside castle was one of the most important fortresses in the country because it kept an eye on the English Channel.

When you visit this castle wonderland, get ready for a treat. Explore Henry II’s private chamber , climb the Great Tower for epic views and see the secret wartime tunnels . And guess what? There’s even an Underground Hospital hiding down there, along with some secret medieval tunnels . You might even find some Roman ruins while exploring.

But that’s not all – this area has over 2,000 years of history. You can find a Roman lighthouse here– one of only three survivors still standing in the world.

Pair your Dover Castle adventure with a trip to the famous white cliffs. Double the fun, double the views.

• Dover Castle  is open daily between 10 am and 5 pm, with longer hours until 6 pm in July and August.
• Don’t forget that   ticket prices for Dover Castle vary throughout the year. For the most current information, please check the official website. To enjoy a 15% discount,  remember to  book your tickets online by 8:45 am on the day of your visit.
• English Heritage members don’t pay entry fees to Dover Castle as of May 2024.

BUY YOUR TICKETS TO GORGEOUS DOVER CASTLE:

12. Totnes and Berry Pomeroy Castle

Berry Pomeroy © britainexpress

Totnes and Berry Pomeroy Castle  are like dreamy postcards from South Devon . If you find yourself in Devon, both fortresses promise an excellent day out. 900-year-old Totnes Castle, with its fancy curtain wall , screams Norman history in the coolest way. And Berry Pomeroy Castle ? Well, let’s just say it’s got a spooky reputation – it’s known as one of England’s most haunted castles !

• Berry Pomeroy Castle is open between 10 am and 5 pm until the end of September, and until 4 pm in October 2024. Afterwards, the castle is open on Saturdays and Sundays from November until 4pm, as of May 2024.
• English Heritage members can visit Berry Pomeroy Castle for free. Otherwise, tickets for Berry Pomeroy Castle cost £7.70 for adults or £4 for kids as of May 2024.
• Totnes Castle is also an English Heritage site and its members can also visit it for free. This motte-and-bailey castle has the same opening hours as Berry Pomeroy Castle. Tickets to Totnes Castle cost £5.90 for adults or £3.10 for kids as of May 2024.

13. Cowdray Castle

You absolutely can’t skip Cowdray Castle just east of Midhurst in West Sussex , Southern England. This charming ruin was once one of England’s finest buildings. They may not be your typical castle, but let us tell you, it’s still one of the most impressive English Tudor houses around.

Absorb some English history at Cowdray Castle .

This fortified manor house, dating back hundreds of years, has seen some royal action. Both King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I visited it many years ago. However, a devastating fire in the 18th century left it in ruins. Today, you can only wander around Cowdray Park and enjoy breathtaking views of these ruins. Let your imagination run wild and picture how grand it was. And after you’ve explored Cowdray Castle, why not check out nearby Petworth House , Arundel or Amberley Castle? They are all just a short drive away.

14. Tintagel Castle

If you are all about myths and tales, plan your trip to Tintagel Castle  in North Cornwall . These 800-year-old ruins aren’t just dramatic – they are practically celebrities in the world of King Arthur legends . Can you believe it?

Believe it or not, this beautiful place has ties dating back to the Roman Empire. Yes, they found some ancient stuff here. While some folks come here because they believe this is the birthplace of King Arthur , others visit it for stunning clifftop views . Cross the cool footbridge, wander around the 13th-century ruins , and learn all those juicy Arthurian legends and tales.

• Tintagel Castle   welcomes visitors daily between 10 am and 6 pm (5pm if it’s a Bank Holiday).
• Tintagel Castle is also an English Heritage site , and members can visit it for free. If you are not a member, adults pay £14.50 and children £8.60 for an advance online ticket as of May 2024. Otherwise, tickets cost £17.20 for adults and £10.40 at the gate (if available).
• Remember to pre-book your ticket to Tintagel Castle during the peak times as they often sell out.

Best Castles in England to visit in the north of London

15. sudeley castle.

Looking for a perfect mix of history and natural beauty? Then, Sudeley Castle  is your ultimate go-to spot! What makes Sudeley Castle so extraordinary? This hidden gem tucked away in the Cotswolds has some serious royal connections . Back in the day, this castle was like a magnet for royalty – even King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once graced its halls. Later, it became home to Henry’s sixth wife , Catherine Parr .

Now, here’s the kicker: Sudeley Castle isn’t just a pretty facade – it holds a unique title. It’s the only private castle in England with a queen buried on its ground . Yes, you read that right – Queen Katherine Parr , Henry VIII’s lucky number six, rests in peace in the castle’s chapel. You can even pay your respects at her final resting place in the chapel.

That’s why Sudeley Castle is one of the best castles in England to visit .

After your castle exploration, check out charming villages nearby in the Cotswolds. Who knows what other hidden gems you will discover in the Cotswolds.

• Sudeley Castle is open daily from 19th March 2024 until 3rd November 2024. The castle gardens open at 10 am and Sudeley Castle at 11 am as of May 2024.
• The last admission is at 3 pm, and the castle closes at 4 pm. Entry ticket to Sudeley Castle costs £22 for adults and £10 for children as of May 2024.

16. Colchester Castle

Ever heard of Colchester Castle? It’s one of the top heritage attractions in Essex , steep in history.

Let us tell you why Colchester Castle rocks the castle world. It isn’t just any fortress; it was the first of the great keeps and the biggest Norman Keep in Europe . But Colchester Castle isn’t just big – it’s a time machine.

Back in the day, Colchester was Britain’s First City and the first capital of Roman Britain . And guess what? The Normans, those crafty builders, decided to build a castle on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius . This temple was one of the most famous buildings and the largest temple of its kind in Roman Britain . Talk about history on top of history.

William the Conqueror himself ordered the construction of Colchester Castle. The Normans didn’t go shopping for new materials; they recycled bricks and stones from the Roman ruins. Talk about sustainable practices, right?

THE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Now, let’s talk about architecture and what is inside. Colchester Castle houses precious artefacts dating back a whopping 2,500 years. You can spot Roman relics and unique displays that will make your jaw drop. But the surprises don’t stop there.
• Colchester Castle has some seriously impressive features, like corner towers and its massive staircase. Let’s just say it’s not your average flight of stairs, but the biggest spiral staircase in all of Britain , measuring a whopping 5 metres across. According to Wikipedia , it also has the largest area of any medieval tower built in Britain or Europe . It is one and a half times the size of the ground floor of the White Tower in London. Fascinating, right? Also, don’t forget to peek into the prison cells – you never know what secrets they might hold.

So, why is Colchester Castle one of the best castles in England? Because it has epic history , you can see the Temple foundations and uncover the secrets of Roman Colchester here.

• You can visit Colchester Castle every day between 10 am–5pm or from 11 am on Sunday.
• A ticket to Colchester Castle for an adult costs £12.75, and a student pays £8.50 as of May 2024. Entry fee for one child (aged 4-16) costs £7.50, and you pay £3.75 for all additional children as of May 2024. And the best part? You don’t need to book your tickets in advance.

17. Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle   might not be the first castle that comes to mind when you think of famous British Castles, but it’s a hidden gem you absolutely don’t want to miss.

Firstly, did you know Framlingham Castle in the Suffolk countryside has a rich and colourful past? Now, you might recognize it from Ed Sheeran’s song Castle on the Hill . But this fortress is not only famous for its musical connections.

Did you know Framlingham Castle played a significant role during the Tudor period? It was the site of a crucial moment in English history when Mary Tudor was proclaimed Queen of England . That’s why Framlingham Castle is one of the best castles to visit in England if you are a history lover.

Once you’re there, you can explore the historic workhouse and climb up those 10-metre-high defensive walls . Here, you can get a closer look at the beautifully preserved Tudor chimneys . And did we mention the views of the surrounding countryside? They are simply breathtaking.

Afterwards, walk the castle’s ramparts and enjoy educational events held during the school holidays. And if you are feeling adventurous, stroll through the Framlingham Mere nature reserve nearby. The paths might get a bit muddy after rainfall, but the views of the castle from down there are absolutely stunning.

• Opening times at   Framlingham Castle vary during the year – check their official website. The castle usually welcomes visitors daily between 10 am and 6 pm during the peak season.
• Framlingham Castle is an English Heritage attraction – and members can visit it for free. If you are not a member, expect to pay £11.30 for an online advance ticket for adults and £6.80 for kids. You can also buy your tickets at the gate: adult ticket costs £13.60, and kids pay £8.10 as of May 2024.

18. Warwick Castle

It’s easy to see why Warwick Castle  is one of the main attractions in Central England . This over 956-year-old fortress is an iconic symbol of the town and ranks among the best castles you can visit in England . Sure, it might have a more commercial vibe when compared to other castles, but trust us, it’s worth every penny.

Now let’s hop into our time-travelling machine and zoom back to 1068. The oldest surviving structure is the still-standing mound from William the Conqueror’s era . While his earlier wooden structure has vanished, the stone beauty you can see today dates back to the 12th century.

Throughout its thousand-year history, Warwick Castle has witnessed numerous owners and has survived various attacks, sieges, and even a fire.

Today, Warwick Castle is more than just a pretty face. One of the best medieval castles in England offers all sorts of cool events and exhibitions year-round to keep you entertained. It’s also a paradise for kids , with captivating archery displays and thrilling bird shows featuring eagles. And did you know they have jaw-dropping attractions like the world’s largest working catapult and the spine-tingling Castle Dungeon ? And, if that is not enough, there is even a brand new Horrible Histories Maze .

Did we mention you can stay overnight within the castle walls? Image waking up here – it’s like a dream come true for any castle enthusiast. So, whether you are coming from Stratford-upon-Avon , Birmingham or even London, Warwick Castle promises an unforgettable journey back in time.

BUY YOUR TICKETS AND EXPLORE GORGEOUS WARWICK CASTLE:

• Warwick Castle is open from 10 am until 4 pm or 5 pm every day, with closing times varying throughout the year. Check their official website for details to avoid disappointment.
• Expect to pay £39 for an adult ticket or £25 if you book in advance (as of May 2024). An annual pass for Warwick Castle is sometimes available for purchase. Check their official website for more details.

19. Bamburgh Castle

If you are anywhere near Northern England, you absolutely must check out gorgeous Bamburgh Castle. Wondering why? Let us tell you.

Let’s turn back the pages of history for a moment. Bamburgh Castle has been standing tall for centuries, keeping watch over the wild Northumberland coastline. Legend has it that it was built on the site of a Celtic fort . Throughout the ages, the fort weathered not-so-friendly Viking attacks, and later, the Normans built a new castle on site. Bamburgh Castle even faced thunderous cannon blasts and underwent a remarkable reconstruction in the 19th century.

Today, Bamburgh Castle ranks among the best castles in England because it’s one of the largest inhabited fortresses in the country. It even holds the title of being the first castle in England to suffer from firepower .

And here’s where things get really juicy – Bamburgh Castle isn’t just famous for its battles and sieges. It also has some fascinating legends swirling around it. Some folks say it is a probable site of Sir Lancelot’s fortress . Whether you believe in knights or not, one thing’s for sure – you won’t regret exploring this gem of North England.

• Bamburgh Castle holds a Grade I listed status, and you can visit every day until November 3rd, 2024. Its doors open at 10 am, and the last entry is at 4 pm during the peak season as of May 2024. Check their official website for the latest information to avoid disappointment.
• Entry fee to Bamburgh Castle costs £17 for adults and £8.50 for children as of May 2024.

20. Lindisfarne Castle

Why is Lindisfarne Castle is one of the best castles in England , do you ask? Besides being an attractive fortress with a fascinating history, it is also stunning. Lindisfarne Castle stands out because when the tide rolls in , this fortress gets cut off from the mainland and becomes an island. Pretty cool, right?

Lindisfarne Castle   proudly stands on the Holy Island in Northumberland, in the far north of England. You can only reach it via its causeway. But timing is key for your visit – you don’t want to get stuck!

Now, let’s say something about its history. This place has seen it all through thousands of years: Viking raids, Scottish invasions, you name it. They all had their eyes on this vulnerable border area between Scotland and England. There used to be a monastery there, but Henry VIII had other plans during the Reformation.

And get this – even though Lindisfarne Castle looks like a medieval fortress, it’s actually a 20th-century restoration of a Tudor fort . This picturesque fort got a glam makeover fit for a king in the 19th century. Now, it’s under the watchful eye of the National Trust .

• After soaking in all that history, chill on the beach and enjoy the coastal vibes.
• Combine your visit to Lindisfarne Castle with the nearby Bamburgh Castle.
• Entry fee to Lindisfarne Castle costs £10 for adults or £5 for children as of May 2024.
• Opening times to Lindisfarne Castle change according to the tide times. The National Trust flag flies only when Lindisfarne Castle is open .

21. Alnwick Castle

One of the first castles in England without a square keep – Alnwick Castle.

Alnwick Castle also steals the spotlight as one of the best British castles. Let us tell you, it isn’t just for Harry Potter and Downtown Abbey enthusiasts – it’s got a whole lot more to offer.

The castle dates back to the 11th century to the Norman era when it was built to keep the northern border of England safe. Imagine, it started as a humble motte and bailey fortress back in the day. Fast forward to today, it has been renovated and remodelled numerous times. Today, this Grade I listed building is the home of the 12th Duke of Northumberland and the Percy family .

Did you know Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England? This massive fortress has beautifully decorated State Rooms . They are home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Alnwick Castle also has extensive grounds and a fine art collection that could make any museum jealous. And if you are into special exhibitions, explore Alnwick’s three towers packed with relics from Ancient Egypt and frescoes from Pompeii .

• Unfortunately Alnwick Castle is not open during the winter. You can explore it only between 29th March 2024 and 24th October 2024. The opening times are usually from 10 am until 5 pm, as of May 2024.
• Entry ticket to Alnwick Castle for adults costs £20.50 online or £22.80 at the gate. Children pay £10.80 online or £12 at the gate as of May 2024. They also offer passes; valid for 12 months if you plan to revisit Alnwick Castle.

BUY YOUR TICKET AND EXPLORE ALNWICK CASTLE – one of the best castles in England: 

Now you know what are the best castles in England!

Did we miss anything? What is your favourite English fortress? Please let us know in the comments below.

Pin the best castles in England for later!

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Last updated: 03/05/2024

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When is the best time to visit the UK? (Seasonal & monthly guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2023

Are you planning a trip to the UK but unsure of the best time of year to visit? In this article discover what each season has to offer as well as a month by month guide to major events across the UK. Everything you need to know to help you make the right decision for your trip.

If you’re dreaming of having a spot of tea in England or envisioning a bagpipe serenade on the moors of Scotland, then it sounds like you’re on the verge of planning one heck of a British vacation. The question is, when is the best time to visit the UK?

There are many considerations to make when planning your trip , including the pros and cons of travelling “in season,” what types of activities you want to do and especially what kind of weather should you expect.

In this article, we will answer all commonly asked questions including

• what you can expect from the weather during each season
• the dates of school and public holidays – and the pros and cons of travelling during these peak times
• expected hours of daylight throughout the year and the impact this can have on your plans
• what (and when) major events occur throughout the year
• plus a guide to the best time to visit England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

FAQ’s about the best time of year to visit the UK

Many questions about when is the best time to visit the UK invariably revolve around the weather. The only certainty about the UK weather is that is unpredictable.

• When is winter in the UK?

The winter months ranges from mid-November to early March.

• When is summer in the UK?

The summer months range from early June to the end of August.

• Can I see the Northern Lights in the UK?

For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) head to to Northern Scotland.

• What is the rainiest month in the UK?

Although December to February are the months that tend to have the most rainfall in the UK (and often can fall as snow especially on higher ground) expect rain at any time of year.

• What is the hottest month of the year in the UK?

During the summer months expect generally warm to hot weather with July (on average) the month with the highest average temperatures.

• When is peak season in the UK?

Peak season in the UK is July and August. This also coincides with school holidays across the country.

• When is the shoulder season in the UK?

Shoulder season in the UK is May, June and September.

• When are the major public holidays in the UK?

In addition to Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays there are a number of public holidays (called ‘Bank” holidays) throughout the year including May Day Bank Holiday (first Monday in May), Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May – and yes there are two Bank Holiday weekends in May!), and the Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)

• FAQ's about the best time of year to visit the UK

The weather

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Factors to consider when planning your trip

• Pros and cons of travelling during Peak Season, Shoulder Season or Low Season
• The impact of daylight hours

The UK is a small island divided into 4 separate nations — England , Wales , Northern Ireland and Scotland . Each has their own cultural identities and attractions to consider, not to mention their own weather idiosyncrasies.

Basically though, the entire UK has a temperate climate with warm summers that never get too hot and cold winters that never get too cold.

The UK weather is, however, famously unreliable and generally not the primary reason to visit the UK! Think about your many clothing options when packing— and don’t forget the umbrella (my UK packing guide for every season will help!)

The answer to the question, ‘When is the best time of year to visit the UK?’ really depends on what you’re looking for. The UK’s warmest weather is in the summer. Autumn and spring are charming but may be a little bit chilly for certain outdoor activities. Winter can be cold, blustery and damp, though it usually only snows around 24 days out of the year.

Spring in the UK begins in March and goes through to the end of May. The weather starts off cold and rainy but becomes more mild as the months progress. Finally, by the end of May and beginning of June, the UK starts to warm up. The average maximum temperatures are as follows:

• March, 12°C (54°F)
• April, 15°C (59°F)
• May, 18°C (64°F)
• June, 21°C (70°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in spring

The summer is generally very pleasant in the UK and tends to be dryer than in the autumn and winter months. The summer begins in June and ends in early September. The average maximum temperatures for the summer months are as follows:

• July, 23°C (73°F)
• August, 23°C (73°F)
• September, 20°C (68°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in summer

Autumn goes from September through to the end of November. Days change from crisp to blustery and then get downright cold. There tends to be a higher level of precipitation during these months as well. The average maximum temperatures for the autumn months are as follows:

• October, 16°C (61°F)
• November, 12°C (54°F)
• December, 9°C (48°F)

It can get rather bleak and cold in the UK during the winter months, which go from the start of December through to the end of February. The average maximum temperatures for the UK in winter months are as follows:

• January, 9°C (48°F)
• February, 9°C (48°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in winter

Peak season for travel in the UK are the summer months of July and August. These dates also coincide with the long 6 week summer school holidays (and hopefully sunny weather)

What are the pros of visiting the UK during peak season?

• The UK weather is generally at its best during these months.
• Hours of daylight are long which means more time to explore the sights.
• Some of the UK’s major events occur during July (Wimbledon) and August (Edinburgh Festival)
• Many historic sights have special events on especially for families e.g jousting at Warwick Castle.

What are the cons of traveling during peak season?

• It is the most expensive time of year to visit and prices for flights, accommodation and transportation can be sky-high.
• Main attractions across the country are busy – buy tickets ahead of time (skip the line tickets are worth the expense unless you enjoy wasting precious holiday time in a queue!)
• Restaurants and hotels are jam-packed.
• Roads are busy and traffic jams are common which can add to the stress if you are planning to hire a car for a road trip

Shoulder season in the UK is in May, early June, September and early October.

What are the pros of visiting the UK during shoulder season?

• Less expensive than peak season
• Better availability for accommodation
• Some of the UK’s most popular events occur during these months such as the Chelsea Flower Show (May), Trooping of the Colour (June)
• Less crowded (though the Bank holidays can be busy)
• There are 2 public (bank) holidays in May (first and last Mondays of May) and many popular historical sights organize events especially for families over these long weekends.
• Expect fewer crowds at popular attractions (though school groups may visit museums, art galleries, and castles during term time)
• Long daylight hours

November through to April is generally considered to be the low season for travel to the UK.

Note that some parts of the UK such as London and Edinburgh experience significant numbers of tourists during December and early January which can significantly impact costs.

Pros of visiting the UK during the low season

• Budget friendly
• Less crowded
• Enjoy special events over the festive period including Christmas markets, Christmas lights and decorations in major cities and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Cons of visiting the UK during the low season

• Weather can be very cold (expect snow during the winter months)
• Daylight hours are reduced (it can get dark as early as 3.30 pm)
• Many popular attractions are closed over the winter months.

The amount of daylight you can expect fluctuates greatly across the year and can have a major impact on your plans.

The amount of daylight can also vary depending on your destination within the UK. The further north you travel the more daylight you can expect in summer and the less in winter.

Average hours of daylight in June (longest day)

London – 16 hours +

Scotland – 17 hours +

Average hours of daylight in December (shortest day)

London – 8 hours

Scotland – 7 hours

First of all, there’s no bad time to visit England , though travelling during every season has its advantages and disadvantages. You can, however, expect some seasonal variation in prices, crowd size and availability of activities.

The summer is the peak tourist season, which is from the end of May to early September. The daylight hours are at their maximum, up to 16 hours per day. The weather is usually delightful and kids are off school (July and August). The inevitable consequence is that everyone starts flocking to the tourist destinations and adding to the already long lines and crowds.

If you dream of gallivanting through the English countryside, add throngs of people sharing the roads and limited parking to your vision. Unfortunately, hotel rates and airfare are usually more expensive in the summer. Still, that charming weather can be a lure that outweighs all of those inconveniences.

If you travel in winter, it may be cold and bleak, and the daylight hours will have waned to just 8 to 10 hours per day. That’s the bad news. The good news is you won’t have to fight any crowds or struggle to get a dinner reservation. There will also be deals to be had on hotel rooms and flights. So if your itinerary contains a lot of indoor activities, maybe winter travel is right for you.

If you’re wondering when is a good time to visit London , it’s similar to travelling in the rest of the UK in terms of weather and seasonal availability. There are a few exceptions, however.

Christmas time in the capital city has been an incredibly popular destination for decades, what with the shopping, the decorations and abundant Christmassy charm.

If however you are a royal watcher, consider traveling in the summer when there are more opportunities to have a peek into the royal lifestyle . Many royal residences are open to the public during the summer because the royals themselves are away on vacation.

Taking all of this into consideration, if you want to know when the best time is to visit England, the answer is (if you can) spring or autumn. During these times the weather is favourable and the daylight hours vary from 11 to 15 hours per day, so there’ll be plenty of time for sightseeing.

Taking a road trip through the English countryside (the Cotswolds , Lake District , Peak District or Northumberland are just two suggestions) is gorgeous in the spring or autumn because either the flowers are blooming or the leaves are turning brilliant shades of orange and yellow. While there are crowds they are smaller and more manageable than in the peak summer season.

Just like it did for England, the timing of your Scotland trip depends upon what you activities have planned. The country’s winter may be more suited to hunkering down in an Edinburgh pub rather than hiking through the Highlands. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F) and is likely to be even colder on the coast and in higher attitudes.

Like England, airfares and hotel rooms will generally be cheaper and you won’t have to fight the crowds in the cities or in the train stations. You will, however, need to be ready for the reduced daylight hours. In January, for example, the sun rises at 8:47 a.m. and sets at 3:53 p.m.

There is good news, though. Because of Scotland’s high latitude and particularly dark winter nights, there’s a chance that you will be treated to the aurora borealis or the northern lights — a dazzling and somewhat ethereal light show in the sky.

A summer trip to Scotland is defined by pros and cons.

The pros — you’ll have lovely weather, as it never gets too terribly hot in Scotland. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). The daylight hours are also long. In August, for example, the sun rises at 4:22 a.m. and sets at 8:03 p.m.

There will be a lot to do, like hiking, camping, driving tours, beautiful train journeys , exploring the cities, islands and the countryside.There are festivals for every taste, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival  in Inverness.

Now for some cons — July and August are peak months for travel, and the crowds will be significantly larger and the prices will be higher. If you don’t mind competing for a little space and paying more for the privilege, then a summer trip may just be the perfect one for you.

As with England, visiting Scotland in the late spring/early summer or early autumn is ideal. By June, Scotland gets an amazing 17 hours of daylight. That combined with the spring’s pleasant weather, an average of 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F), and you will be able to conquer every outdoor activity there is to offer.

If you would prefer to spend your time in Scotland’s cities, the good news is that the summer tourists haven’t arrived yet, so lines won’t be as long and the prices will be more reasonable. The same thing is true for an autumn visit. Starting in November through middle December, airfares tend to be cheaper.

Early autumn is an ideal time of year to drive North Coast 500 , a spectacular 516-mile trip from Inverness along Scotland’s North Highlands that might be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

No matter when you visit Wales , remember, the weather can be unpredictable and you should pack well and be prepared for a variety of temperatures.

The temperature in winter averages 6°C (43°F), but compared to Scotland, there is a good amount of daylight — sunrise is around 7:40 a.m. and sunset is around 6:28 p.m. In spite of the cooler weather, daffodils have been known to make their cheerful appearance late in the winter.

Another plus, if you travel on or near March 1st, you can join the locals in celebrating St. David’s Day. The patron saint of Wales is feted with parades, traditional Welsh dress and plenty of delicious food, not to mention scores of daffodils and leeks.

The summer is a lovely time to visit, as the weather is very agreeable, although the region can get quite a bit of rain. There is between 15-16 hours of daylight during the summer. Temperatures average 16 °C (61 °F), so hiking and camping would be fantastic during this time, as would any coastal family trips.

If you wish to see the Atlantic Puffins take over the island of Skomer, then early July is the time to go, especially if you want to see them parenting their new chicks.

Summer is the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and be prepared to book well in advance for hotels (and popular Welsh castle hotel stays ), air travel, restaurants and activities.

The late spring and early autumn are great times to go to Wales. There are between 13 and 16 hours of daylight during both seasons. The temperature usually hovers around 13°C (55°F). In May and June, flowers will be blooming in a riot of colors, making the already breathtaking scenery fully come to life.

The Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile long footpath that winds its way along the coastline, makes for a perfect hike during this time. For something a little different, check out The Laugharne Weekend in West Wales — a local, literary and arts celebration of Dylan Thomas and other writers, musicians and comedians who’ve come from Wales.  

In the autumn, the mountains and valleys look to be on fire with all shades of gold and orange, and the nights begin to get crisp with a touch of chill. Places like Hay-on-Wye, a charming market town on the River Wye become even more magical in the autumn.

There will also be plenty of seasonal activities, such as at the medieval Powis Castle and Garden. Each year they create the Powis pumpkin trail, where kids can search for the carved pumpkins hidden throughout the garden.

If spending a night in a Welsh castle is on your bucket list why not book one of these amazing Welsh castle hotels ?

If you wish to visit Northern Ireland when the temperatures are at their warmest, then go during July and August. The average temperature in the summer is 17°C (63°F), but beware because summertime is also when the country’s rainfall is at its peak.

The summer in Northern Ireland has amazingly long daylight hours, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00pm, so you’ll be able to pack in a lot of activities. It is the peak season, which means you’ll be fighting the crowds as you see the sights.

Also, keep in mind, summer vacations for their school children start a few weeks earlier than they do in England, meaning the tourist sites may be more crowded starting at the end of June.

In winter, Northern Ireland is a little colder than England and has about 7-8 hours of daylight. That won’t matter too much if you seek out Belfast’s St. George’s Market, Northern Ireland’s last surviving Victorian market. In December, they offer twilight days for evening shopping. There will also be crafts from local artisans, delightful food and family entertainment.

Like with the other UK regions, you get the best of everything by visiting in the spring or autumn. By late spring, you’ll start to see lambs and calves in the pastures as the temperatures rise to between 10°C (50°C) to 16°C (60°F).

Visit Rathlin Island in the late spring and you’ll see all kinds of nesting birds and the area’s famous puffins. Also, for those festival fans, check out the two-day Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey festiva l held in early June.

In the autumn, as the leaves are changing colors, it’s a perfect time to visit the Glens of Antrim, or known locally simply as The Glens. It’s a region of County Antrim known for it’s astonishing natural beauty.

In October, the Glens Storytelling Festival is a five-day event for tourists and locals alike to experience the magic of this area’s story telling traditions. Expect family-friendly stories to have a touch of Halloween magic.

Which is the best month to visit the UK? Month by month pros and cons + guide to all the major events in the UK

❄️ Visiting the UK in winter

🌷 Visiting the UK in spring

☀️ Visiting the UK in the summer

🍂 Visiting the UK in autumn

🧣 Visiting Scotland in winter

January in the UK falls within the low tourist season, which creates some distinct advantages for travellers. Students return to school and the cold weather, gloomy skies and waning daylight translate into fewer people, cheaper hotel rooms and inexpensive airfare.

Also, the after-Christmas sales are in full swing, so bargain hunters will have a field day shopping. Theatre tickets and restaurant reservations will also be easier to get. A January trip is sounding better and better. Here are some fun things to do in January:

• New Year’s Day Parade in London —This is a fabulous, free and family-friendly parade in the city’s West End. It’s three and a half hours of music and revere that won’t soon be forgotten.

• Simplyhealth Great Edinburgh Winter Run— If you’re in Scotland and are a fitness buff, join 3000 other hardcore health nuts for this 5k of fun that also affords fantastic views of the city.

• Big Burns Supper in Dumfries Scotland— Part of the country’s Burns Night, this event occurs in the latter half of the month and offers all sorts of venues with everything from comedy to cabaret.

February in the UK falls securely within low season for travellers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an absolutely fantastic vacation if you choose to travel then. If you don’t mind cooler weather, the seaside towns should be virtually empty, for example.

Keep in mind that UK schools have a half-term break in February, which may cause unexpected crowds at tourist sites. Here are some fun things to do in February:

• V alentine’s Day in London —A visit to multiple artisan chocolate shops would definitely be in order, as would a romantic dinner for two in one of London’s many fine-dining restaurants.

• The Orchid Festival at London’s Kew Gardens —If you adore flowers and don’t want to travel all the way to Indonesia, then this show is not to be missed. There will be over 5000 species of orchids to admire.

• London’s Classic Car Show in Olympia Exhibition Centre —You’ll see some of the finest and most collectable vintage models in the world.

Flowers will be just beginning to bloom throughout the UK, a promise that spring is just around the corner.

March is a shoulder season for tourists, which means it’s not too busy and not too light. So you can throw on a coat and start taking advantage of some of the outdoor fun that the UK has to offer. Here are some fun things to do in March:

• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race in London — When is the best time to travel to England? When there are 250,000 screaming rowing fans cheering on the edge of the Thames. This is one of the largest sporting events held in London and it’s free! (Sometimes this event happens in April, so check online to see.)

• Glasgow International Comedy Festival —Are you a comedy fan? In the latter half of March, travel to Scotland and see the funniest stars from all around the UK hit the stage in what is Europe’s largest comedy festival.

• St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland —On March 17th, County Armagh and County Down host the annual Home of Saint Patrick Festival that consists of concerts, family-friendly activities and general fun.

Ah, April. The flowers are blooming and the days are getting longer. It’s a shoulder season, so it’s a pretty good time to enjoy the natural beauty that the UK has to offer without having to brave too many crowds.

Students in the UK have a school break around Easter, which usually falls in this month, so that may alter the tourist scene slightly. Regardless, there are also a lot of fun, local activities to choose from. Here are some examples:

• Isle of Wight Walking Festival —Fun for all ages and all fitness levels. Thousands of locals and tourists alike explore the island and take in its stark, scenic beauty.

• Shakespeare’s Birthday in Stratford-upon-Avon —Celebrate The Bard’s birthday by traveling to his birthplace for performances, music and all kinds of fun.

• Cardiff Flower Show —If you’re a gardener or a flower appreciator and are planning to be in Wales, you might want to visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s Cardiff Flower Show. There are countless exhibits and demonstrations to inspire and fascinate those with or without a green thumb.

The weather is getting ever warmer and the days are getting longer in the UK, yet May is still a shoulder season, which means its an excellent time to visit. Things can get busy over the Bank holiday weekends with many Brits enjoying a spring staycation .

It’s also getting dryer, so rain may not be as much of an issue as it is in other months. Still, bring a few layers to wrap up in, just in case. Here are some fun things to do in May:

• Chelsea Flower Show – Since 1913, except during the two world wars, the famous Chelsea Flower Show has been a glamorous affair celebrating British flowers and garden design. It takes place on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea and makes for a fun and historical activity whilst in the UK.

• Gloucester Docks Tall Ship Festival — Come see tall ships in all of their splendor along with fun and games for the whole family. There will be live stages with local bands as well as a food market

• Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair – Join over 10,000 locals and tourists at Scotland’s only highland games and country fair. It’s at the magnificent Gordon Castle located near Fochabers in Moray.

The middle of June marks the beginning of peak season for traveling in the UK, so make sure you’ve got those reservations, tickets and bookings well ahead of time.

You have an excellent chance of pleasant weather and agreeable temperatures, so live it up! Here are some fun things to do in June:

• Glastonbury Festival — This world-famous five-day festival takes place in Pilton, Somerset, in the south west of England. It features big-name contemporary musical acts as well as dance, cabaret and theater.

• Gregynog Music Festival — Attention classical music lovers! In the gorgeous Welsh countryside in the village of Tergynon, you’ll find the oldest classical music festival in Wales, which attracts some of the world’s finest musicians.

• The Royal Highland Show — Scotland’s largest agricultural show put on by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. Thousands of visitors come from all over the globe to see over 1000 exhibitors and scores of livestock. It’s in Ingliston, an area of West Edinburgh.

July is peak travel season with very long days and probably the best weather offered by the UK. Restaurants will be jam-packed and tourist sites will be overflowing with visitors.

Add in the students who have just been released from school on summer break and you will have a lot of people to contend with. No wonder there is a lot going on the UK during the summer! Here are some examples:

• Wimbledon — In a town called Wimbledon, there’s a little yearly tennis tournament. Actually, it’s probably the most major tournament in the tennis world.

Good to know – If you want to do it on the cheap, go outside the stadium to Henman Hill and buy a £30 ticket to watch the matches on a giant TV. If you want the real thing, then you’ll need to shell out quite a bit more, depending on which match you see.

• The Big Cheese at Caerphilly — History buffs, would you like to be sent back to medieval days at Caerphilly Castle ? See reenactments and battles, along with entertainment, food, period dance and a whole lot of fun.

The weather is warm, so that distracts you from the peak season crowds traveling throughout the UK. All schools are enjoying summer break, so expect to be shoulder to shoulder with locals and tourists alike at all the tourist sites.

Here are some fun things to do in August:

• Wilderness Festival —Located in Oxfordshire’s Cornbury Park, this festival offers easy-going music, theatrical productions, amazing food and really cool art, all in a gorgeous lakeside setting.

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival — If you like crowds, music and having serious fun, then try out the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. It goes on for days and hosts so much talent, it takes hundreds of venues just to fit everything in. Check their website to see the list of performers.

• The National Eisteddfod — A festival celebrating all things Welsh . It’s in the first 8 days of August and there is food, music, arts and design.

The beginning of September is part of the summer peak season but with the end of summer and beginning of autumn, the rest of the month is a shoulder season.

Most students head back to school early in September, so vacationers return home and tourist sites will be less crowded. Here are some fun things to do in September:

• The Jane Austen Festival — Do you dream of spending a quiet evening with Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet? Travel to Bath and spend 10 days choosing from over 80 Jane Austen-related events. There’s even a Regency Costumed Masked Ball!

• Culture Night Belfast – For the past several years, in the second half of September, people hit the Belfast streets from City Hall to the Cathedral Quarter to enjoy a free celebration of art, language and history of Northern Ireland. There is something to do for all ages.

There’s a crisp autumn chill in the air and Halloween ghosts and goblins are just around the corner. The beginning of October is a shoulder season, and by the end, it slows down into low season. Still, there are lots of interesting things to tackle in the UK during October.

• Harwich International Shanty Festival – For those who can’t resist the call of that salty ocean air, sail on over to Harwich and sing an old song of the sea. There’ll be concerts and barge trips and crafts for the saltiest old sailors to the youngest of landlubbers.

• The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival — Who doesn’t enjoy jazz in a charming rural setting? In 2006, this festival was born and has grown larger every year. It’s a long weekend of all types of music in a variety of venues. You’ll see live blues, jazz, boogie and soul from a huge variety of artists.

This is the low season for travel in the UK. The weather is brisk and it’s best to remember to bring a bunch of comfy layers and a jacket in your suitcase. Here are some fun things to do in November:

• Guy Fawkes Night —This celebration marks the night back in 1605 when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. He did not succeed, and the anniversary has traditionally been remembered with a bonfire. Given that could easily get out of hand, most celebrations have switched to fireworks.

• Diwali on Trafalgar Square – Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated by Hindu, Jain and Sikh people all over the world. This one is the biggest in the UK and features amazing dancers in stunningly beautiful and colorful dress. Expect to see market stalls with amazing food, as well as crafts and fun activities for the whole family.

Yes, it’s pretty chilly in the UK during December, and the days have grown a wee bit short. There’s still a lot to love about this winter month. Keep in mind, that students in the UK usually have the final weeks in December off, so that could affect the crowd levels.

The weeks closest to Christmas are considered a peak tourist season, so there are many Christmas activities to choose from including festive markets all over the UK.

• Belfast Giants Ice Hockey — For something really different, grab the whole family, live like a local and check out an ice hockey game. Their website has all the information about tickets and times.

• Elfingrove at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum —This magnificent museum in Glasgow transforms itself and offers night-time tours along with local food and singing.

This is really a difficult question to answer and really deserves a post all of its own.

Many people insist that it’s Christmas. Trafalgar Square has a giant lit up Christmas tree dripping in ornaments and Christmas cheer. Carol singing and festive events occur all throughout London.

There are several London Christmas Markets that will surely take care of everyone on that Christmas list. There are also a number of festive events held annually around Christmas at many of the castles near London.

But in summer the hours of daylight are longer and exploring London’s attractions on a warm sunny day is also a wonderful experience.

To be honest for me deciding when to visit London is best answered with the words “it is always a good idea!”

Read more – Visiting London in winter | 21 Festive things to do and see in London in December | 29 Things to do in London in Spring | Guide to visiting London in Fall

So the only true answer to the question, “When is the best time to go to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?” really does depend on your own interests and available time to go.

Once you have settled on the time of year to visit the UK you are now ready to start planning your trip itinerary.

My UK Trip Planner will help you to plan the perfect UK vacation in 10 easy to follow steps – I recommend starting there!

For UK inspiration my top 21 landmarks in England , 19 places to visit in Scotland , top 10 things to see in Wales , top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland and London bucket list articles are great places to start.

I recommend prioritising what you want to see and do. You can also take some virtual tours of London and UK landmarks and sights to help you plan.

Other useful resources to help you plan your trip:

• How much does a holiday in the UK cost? Read my UK travel budget guide to help calculate your budget!
• Choose from my selection of the best guidebooks for UK travel
• Click here for my recommendations of the best booking sites for travel to the UK
• Prefer an organised tour? Check out our recommendations of the best UK tours available for 2021 and beyond!
• How to get around the UK (Complete Guide to Transportation in the UK)

10 Best Things To Do In Northern Ireland On Your Next Visit

N orthern Ireland is an amazing destination to visit in the UK. Whatever one seeks, one will find it in this country, whether it is vibrant cities filled with pubs and historic attractions or breathtaking landscapes, interesting culture, delicious food, and a vibrant music scene.

There is so much to do in this land, but one does not necessarily have to do everything to get the ultimate experience here. These amazing activities in Northern Ireland are enough to give travelers the best out of their visit to this scenic part of the United Kingdom.

Related: 10 Cities In Europe That Still Have Their Historic City Walls

See Some Of The Most Impressive Castles In Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is home to some of the most awe-inspiring castles in Europe , some of which include Dunluce Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, Dunseverick Castle, and Belfast Castle. Some of these castles in Northern Ireland date nearly a thousand years back, and they come with impressive architecture and interior designs that will make visitors feel like royalty once they step in.

The Carrickfergus Castle is perhaps the most famous castle in Northern Ireland.

Drive The Torr Head Scenic Route For Some Of The Best Scenery In Northern Ireland

The Torr Head Scenic Route is a 23 km long road that offers one of the best scenic drives in Northern Ireland. Although the road is characterized by narrow points and sharp turns that make driving it feels difficult, the scenery it offers is enough reward for all the dangers involved on the ride.

While riding the Torr Head Scenic Route, one will get to see stunning cliffs, beautiful coastlines, and endless green landscapes.

• Length: 23 km (14.2 miles)
• Address: Ballycastle BT546RQ

Explore Towering Waterfalls & Wildlife In Glenariff Forest Park

Visiting Glenariff Forest Park is one of the top things to do in Northern Ireland for nature lovers. It is a beautiful 1000 hectares area in Northern Ireland’s County Antrim that’s characterized by enchanting forests and several towering waterfalls.

The park also features a more than 80 years old walkway that allows visitors to get up close to all the park’s natural wonders, particularly the towering waterfalls. The plant and animal diversity of the park are also things visitors will enjoy here.

• Address: Glenariffe Road, Cargan, County Antrim, BT44OQX
• Activities: Horseback riding, picnicking, shopping

Go On A Game of Thrones Tour Of Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is home to many stunning locations that inspired Game of Thrones . Some of the impressive areas were even featured in the world-famous Game of Thrones TV series. When in the country, visitors can get to visit some of these locations by joining a Game of Thrones tour.

This tour lasts for approximately 9 hours and takes visitors from Belfast to some of the magical landscapes featured in the show, from the ancient caves of Cushendun, which was the birthplace of the shadow baby, to Dunluce Castle, which was the House of Greyjoy.

• Tour : Game of Thrones Locations Tour including Westeros & Giant’s Causeway
• What’s Included in The Tour: Hotel drop off, professional guide, live commentary

Related: Game Of Thrones Fan? You'll Love Sir Ivan's Hamptons Castle

See The Giant’s Causeway In Person

The Giant’s Causeway is perhaps the most famous attraction in Northern Ireland and one of the greatest natural wonders in the UK . This attraction is characterized by about 40,000 large basalt columns, which have been linked to several origin stories, including one Irish legend involving two giants.

The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is free to visit, although visitors have to pay for parking.

Feed The Mind's Fascination At The Best Museums In Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is home to several amazing museums, and visiting some of them is something worth doing when visiting the country. Whether one is interested in the country’s history, or other things like technology and natural sciences, Northern Ireland has a museum to satisfy everybody.

Some of the most popular museums in Northern Ireland include:

• Titanic Belfast: For those interested in Belfast's history and the history of the Titanic.
• Ulster Museum: For lovers of things related to history, art, and natural sciences.
• W5: For lovers of natural sciences and technology.

Marvel At The Historic Derry City Walls

There are so many impressive city walls around the world, and a visit to Northern Ireland is an opportunity to see one of the most impressive ones ever built. Located at the center of Derry, the historic walls of Derry City are among the top historic attractions in Northern Ireland. They are about one mile in circumference and were constructed in the 17th century.

The old walls of Derry City are the only complete and intact city walls in Northern Ireland and one of the few remaining in the world. Visitors are allowed to walk on the walls, see the gates, cannons, and some of the most impressive European street views ever.

Fun Fact: Despite being besieged up to three times, the Derry city walls have never been breached, and this has earned the city of Derry the nickname “the maiden city".

Related: 10 Of The World's Historic Walled Cities You Need To See To Believe

Experience The Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive, One Of The Most Beautiful Drives In Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is filled with so many beautiful road trips, and each has something unique to offer, which is why they all deserve to be experienced individually. The 10 km Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive is particularly one of the best road trips in Northern Ireland. It stretches for 10 km and takes offers views of some of the finest mountain and forest scenery in Northern Ireland.

The drive is located within the Slieve Gullion Forest Park, which is also an amazing place for hiking, wildlife watching, and picnicking.

• Address: Newry, Co, Armagh
• Open: Every day from 9 am, except Christmas
• Park facilities: A picnic area, children’s play park, a car park, public toilets, and a cafe

Visit the Slieve Gullion Forest Park website for more information.

Go Shopping At St George’s Market In Belfast

Fancy some shopping in Belfast? St George’s Market is a great place to shop and have fun in the capital of Northern Ireland. This is one of the best markets in Belfast and is home to lots of amazing goodies, from fresh produces like vegetables and fruits to books, clothes, antiques, and many more.

The market is also a great place to sample some of the best food in Northern Ireland while enjoying live music.

• Address: 12 - 20 East Bridge Street, Belfast BT1 3NQ
• Open: Fridays (8 am to 2 pm), Saturdays (9 am to 3 pm), and Sundays (10 am to 3 pm)

Drive The Causeway Coastal Route & Enjoy Many Famous Attractions In Northern Ireland

The Causeway Coastal Route is the best road trip in Northern Ireland (and arguably of the best road trip routes in the world for scenery). This route stretches up to 190 km (120 miles) through dramatic landscapes, charming villages, coastlines, and most of the amazing sights and attractions Northern Ireland has to offer.

There are so many stops to make on this road trip, and plenty of activities visitors will enjoy throughout the experience, from hiking to cycling. This adventure can even be an entire vacation itinerary for Northern Ireland in itself, as it takes between 3 and 5 days to complete it.

The Causeway Coastal Route is also the ultimate Northern Ireland adventure, as it kind of fits every other activity into one long road trip. Besides being able to hike and cycle, visitors on this road trip will get to enjoy other adventures and a handful of the top attractions in Northern Ireland, such as:

• Exploring Game of Thrones filming locations
• Walking through Belfast City
• Visiting Carrickfergus Castle
• Experiencing the Gobbins Cliffwalk

Protect Your Trip »

The 25 best beaches on the east coast for 2024.

Plan the perfect summer getaway at these picture-perfect seaside locations.

Getty Images |

Even if you only have one day to spare, these stretches of sand guarantee a relaxing getaway.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Canaveral National Seashore: Titusville, Florida

Cape Cod National Seashore: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape May, New Jersey

Courtesy of Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority |

Delray Beach, Florida

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, New Jersey

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

South Beach: Miami, Florida

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Amelia Island, Florida

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Fire Island, New York

Tybee Island, Georgia

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Acadia National Park, Maine

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Stuart Beach, Florida

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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