Photo by: VisitBritain/Yin Sun Photography

Aerial view of Bamburgh Castle on the coast of Northumberland

Britain’s most spectacular castles

Full of secrets and scandals, Britain’s castles are stuffed with stories. Marking where battles were won and dynasties were upheld, these royal residences and battle forts symbolise some of history’s most famous moments.

Witness a sword-clashing skirmish between medieval knights, sleep in the childhood home of a former queen or party in the real-life Downton Abbey. Here are just some of our most treasured and beautiful castles in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, along with the one-of-a-kind experiences you can find there.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Anastasia Ustenikova

Food truck and direction signs at a festival at Highclere Castle with house behind

Screen stars

For some juicy stories and insights, take a themed tour of your favourite movie-loving castle. Britain’s castles love the camera and have starred in countless films, from Highclere Castle doubling as Downton Abbey to Alnwick Castle’s role of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series. Maybe you’ll recognise Eilean Donan Castle from Highlander? Or Belvoir Castle from The Da Vinci Code?

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pete Seaward

Aerial view from the Norman motte, high above the castle grounds

Festival fun

Castles aren’t just about a dive into history; many double-up as impressive festival and live music locations. It’s not unusual to see A-list gigs at the likes of Warwick Castle or Arundel Castle to a fromage fancier’s fantasy at Caerphilly Castle’s Big Cheese Festival. Many offer outdoor theatre and film screenings throughout the summer.

Photo by: VisitBritain/National Trust/Paul Healy

Man leaning on gatepost, looking out to views of castle

Big battles

With swords clashing and shields smashing, battle re-enactments bring a castle’s epic history to life. From Viking and Saxon skirmishes at Corfe Castle to medieval jousting at Kenilworth Castle, watch the battles that shaped Britain today.

Photo by: Visit CountyDurham

View over Durham City

Behind the scenes

A behind-the-scenes castle tour reveals the secrets of these imposing structures. Discover the inner workings of Castle Howard, Windsor Castle and Durham Castle which run curated talks and events for that extra-special insight. 

Photo by: VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

View from a distance of a castle on hill near a beach

Royal sleeps

Snooze in chambers fit for royalty. Many of Britain’s castles offer accommodation, whether that’s a luxurious bed and breakfast at Hever Castle – Anne Boleyn’s childhood home – or medieval-themed glamping tents at Leeds Castle. Balmoral Castle also offers a range of holiday cottages within the castle grounds. See below for more British castles where you can sleep like a king or queen.

Visit some of the best castles in England

Windsor Castle

Windsor, England

Walk through 1,000 years of history at Windsor Castle, exploring its opulent state rooms and superb royal artefacts.

Photo by: Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

Visitors with ice cream, Windsor Castle

Warwick Castle

Warwick, England

Spectacular shows and spellbinding storytelling bring history to life.

Photo by: gary718/Shutterstock

Location: Warwick, England

A hot air balloon floats over Warwick Castle in Warwickshire, England.

Tower of London

London, England

Get hands-on with history at this former palace and prison. It’s full of tales and treasures, including the Crown Jewels.

Photo by: Visit Britain/George Johnson

Beefeater walking by the, Tower of London on a sunny day

Highclere Castle

Highclere, England

Step inside the real Downton Abbey.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Anastasia Ustenikova

Food truck and direction signs at a festival at Highclere Castle with house behind

Hever Castle

Hever, England

Hever Castle was the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn, who later became queen of England for just 1,000 days.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pete Seaward

A man and woman in a rowing boat, rowing in still waters

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick, England

A really magical day – the setting of wizarding schools for Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle even offers magic performances and wand-making workshops.

Photo by: VisitBritain

Young woman hovering on a broomstick in the Outer Bailey of Alnwick Castle

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh, England

Overlooking the golden sands of Bamburgh beach, this magnificent fortress is one of Britain’s biggest inhabited castles.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

View from a distance of a castle on hill near a beach

Leeds Castle

Broomfield, England

Leeds Castle is jam-packed with things to do: from an adventure golf course and mind-boggling maze, to a bird of prey centre and outdoor art sculptures.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Woman in a punt on the moat looking towards castle

Dover Castle

Dover, England

With jousting tournaments, secret wartime tunnels and a medieval palace, Dover Castle brings Britain's history to life.

Photo by: billie_the_kid_071

Dover Castle

Castle Drogo

Exeter, England

Visit the last castle to be built in Britain, with the rugged Dartmoor tors that surround it.

Photo by: National Trust Images/James Dob

Exterior of Castle Drogo, looking up through the fir trees

Castle Howard, North Yorkshire

Castle Howard, England

A remarkable pile that’s been in the Howard family for more than 300 years.

Photo by: Castle Howard/Nick Howard

Large country house surrounded by trees with stream in the foreground

Thornbury Castle

Thornbury, England

King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here on their honeymoon – and you can enjoy its luxury too.

Photo by: Les Searle

An overhead view of Thornbury Castle on the outskirts of Bristol

Arundel Castle

Arundel, England

Take a trip to Arundel Castle, towering on its motte, in the South Downs and see its 1,000 years of history.

Photo by: Arundel Castle

Location: South Downs

Arundel Castle

Lewes Castle & Museum

Lewes, England

Head to lovely Lewes in East Sussex and climb to the top of its historic castle overlooking the town.

Photo by: Sussex Past

Location: South Downs

Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum

St Michael's Mount

Marazion, England

This island getaway sits just off the coast of Cornwall, with a magnificent castle at its peak.

Photo by: National Trust Images / David Noton

A person windsurfing off the coast of the castle on St Michael's Mount, Cornwall

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Dunster, England

From festive lights trails to ghost-hunting trips, this ancient house offers festivals and events galore.

Photo by: National Trust Images/James Dobson

Location: Dartmoor and Exmoor

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Lancaster Castle

Lancaster, England

Tales of witchcraft and crime await at the King’s northern castle – take a tour through its medieval Well Tower or explore its collection of heraldic shields.

Photo by: Marketing Lancashire

External view of Lancaster castle with visitors sitting around the lawn in the foreground

Belvoir Castle

Grantham, England

The turrets, battlement walls and gardens at this castle will be a familiar sight to fans of the television show The Crown and The Da Vinci Code movie.

Photo by: Visit Leicester

Location: Leicestershire, England

A long distance outdoor shot of Belvoir Castle

Chillingham Castle

Alnwick, England

From the dungeon to the torture chamber and the castle’s resident ghosts, you’re guaranteed a terrifying day out.

Photo by: Jane Coltman

Chillingham Castle_Making an entrance by Jane Coltman

Sudeley Castle & Gardens

Cheltenham, England

A fairytale castle with romantic ruins and swoon-worthy gardens, Sudeley is a Cotswolds heart throb.

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Cotswolds, England

Male and female couple hugging in a garden near a fountain

  • Windsor Castle

    Windsor, England

    Walk through 1,000 years of history at Windsor Castle, exploring its opulent state rooms and superb royal artefacts.

    Photo by: Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

    Visitors with ice cream, Windsor Castle

  • Warwick Castle

    Warwick, England

    Spectacular shows and spellbinding storytelling bring history to life.

    Photo by: gary718/Shutterstock

    Location: Warwick, England

    A hot air balloon floats over Warwick Castle in Warwickshire, England.

  • Tower of London

    London, England

    Get hands-on with history at this former palace and prison. It’s full of tales and treasures, including the Crown Jewels.

    Photo by: Visit Britain/George Johnson

    Beefeater walking by the, Tower of London on a sunny day

  • Highclere Castle

    Highclere, England

    Step inside the real Downton Abbey.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Anastasia Ustenikova

    Food truck and direction signs at a festival at Highclere Castle with house behind

  • Hever Castle

    Hever, England

    Hever Castle was the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn, who later became queen of England for just 1,000 days.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Pete Seaward

    A man and woman in a rowing boat, rowing in still waters

  • Alnwick Castle

    Alnwick, England

    A really magical day – the setting of wizarding schools for Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle even offers magic performances and wand-making workshops.

    Photo by: VisitBritain

    Young woman hovering on a broomstick in the Outer Bailey of Alnwick Castle

  • Bamburgh Castle

    Bamburgh, England

    Overlooking the golden sands of Bamburgh beach, this magnificent fortress is one of Britain’s biggest inhabited castles.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

    View from a distance of a castle on hill near a beach

  • Leeds Castle

    Broomfield, England

    Leeds Castle is jam-packed with things to do: from an adventure golf course and mind-boggling maze, to a bird of prey centre and outdoor art sculptures.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

    Woman in a punt on the moat looking towards castle

  • Dover Castle

    Dover, England

    With jousting tournaments, secret wartime tunnels and a medieval palace, Dover Castle brings Britain's history to life.

    Photo by: billie_the_kid_071

    Dover Castle

  • Castle Drogo

    Exeter, England

    Visit the last castle to be built in Britain, with the rugged Dartmoor tors that surround it.

    Photo by: National Trust Images/James Dob

    Exterior of Castle Drogo, looking up through the fir trees

  • Castle Howard, North Yorkshire

    Castle Howard, England

    A remarkable pile that’s been in the Howard family for more than 300 years.

    Photo by: Castle Howard/Nick Howard

    Large country house surrounded by trees with stream in the foreground

  • Thornbury Castle

    Thornbury, England

    King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here on their honeymoon – and you can enjoy its luxury too.

    Photo by: Les Searle

    An overhead view of Thornbury Castle on the outskirts of Bristol

  • Arundel Castle

    Arundel, England

    Take a trip to Arundel Castle, towering on its motte, in the South Downs and see its 1,000 years of history.

    Photo by: Arundel Castle

    Location: South Downs

    Arundel Castle

  • Lewes Castle & Museum

    Lewes, England

    Head to lovely Lewes in East Sussex and climb to the top of its historic castle overlooking the town.

    Photo by: Sussex Past

    Location: South Downs

    Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum

  • St Michael's Mount

    Marazion, England

    This island getaway sits just off the coast of Cornwall, with a magnificent castle at its peak.

    Photo by: National Trust Images / David Noton

    A person windsurfing off the coast of the castle on St Michael's Mount, Cornwall

  • Dunster Castle and Watermill

    Dunster, England

    From festive lights trails to ghost-hunting trips, this ancient house offers festivals and events galore.

    Photo by: National Trust Images/James Dobson

    Location: Dartmoor and Exmoor

    Dunster Castle and Watermill

  • Lancaster Castle

    Lancaster, England

    Tales of witchcraft and crime await at the King’s northern castle – take a tour through its medieval Well Tower or explore its collection of heraldic shields.

    Photo by: Marketing Lancashire

    External view of Lancaster castle with visitors sitting around the lawn in the foreground

  • Belvoir Castle

    Grantham, England

    The turrets, battlement walls and gardens at this castle will be a familiar sight to fans of the television show The Crown and The Da Vinci Code movie.

    Photo by: Visit Leicester

    Location: Leicestershire, England

    A long distance outdoor shot of Belvoir Castle

  • Chillingham Castle

    Alnwick, England

    From the dungeon to the torture chamber and the castle’s resident ghosts, you’re guaranteed a terrifying day out.

    Photo by: Jane Coltman

    Chillingham Castle_Making an entrance by Jane Coltman

  • Sudeley Castle & Gardens

    Cheltenham, England

    A fairytale castle with romantic ruins and swoon-worthy gardens, Sudeley is a Cotswolds heart throb.

    Photo by: VisitBritain

    Location: Cotswolds, England

    Male and female couple hugging in a garden near a fountain

The best castles to visit in Scotland

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, Scotland

Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of a dormant volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Steven Oates

Location: Edinburgh

Green and red deck chairs laid out on grass in a park

Craigievar Castle

Alford, Scotland

A striking fairytale castle that hosts anything from Shakespeare plays to wilderness survival skill workshops.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ramona Jones

Woman walking on a path between grass, towards a castle

Stirling Castle

Stirling, Scotland

Venture into Stirling Castle’s Palace Vaults, stroll the Queen Anne gardens, and experience the opulence of royal life in the 1500s.

Photo by: valentynagretchyn

A woman posing in front of Stirling Castle, Scotland

Eilean Donan Castle

Dornie, Scotland

Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage. Eilean Donan sits in an incredible setting: the castle’s stone turrets are surrounded by rugged peaks, and it sits at the meeting point of three west coast lochs – Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Guy Richardson

Aerial view of castle and surrounding countryside

Urquhart Castle

Drumnadrochit, Scotland

Visitors to Urquhart Castle have recorded many Loch Ness Monster sightings over the years, and it even features in a 1955 photo of Nessie.

Photo by: Inverness & Loch Ness

A view from above Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness in Scotland.

Dunrobin Castle

Golspie, Scotland

Dunrobin Castle is the most northerly of Scotland's great houses, and the biggest in the Northern Highlands – with an incredible 189 rooms.

Photo by: moliviabegnami

A view from below Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

Culzean Castle and Country Park

Culzean, Scotland

This is no ordinary castle – Culzean has its very own beach, country park, Adventure Cove and more.

Photo by: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Culzean Castle and Country Park

Drummond Castle Gardens

Crieff, Scotland

One for nature lovers, Drummond Castle Gardens offer everything from snowy splendour in winter, to a summertime riot of colour.

Photo by: colindrumwright

Drummond Castle Gardens

Balmoral Castle

Crathie, Scotland

The Scottish holiday residence of the British Royal Family. Tour the historic gardens and estate of picturesque Balmoral Castle.

Photo by: @pumpkin_the_pompom

Balmoral Castle and Estate

Inveraray Castle

Inverarary, Scotland

A fusion of modernity, baroque, palladian and gothic, Inveraray Castle was inspired by a sketch from the architect that brought Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard to Britain.

Photo by: Inveraray Castle

A view across the grounds of Inveraray Castle

Caerlaverock Castle

Dumfries, Scotland

Built in the shape of a triangle, this unique 13th-century fortress sits on the southern coast of Scotland.

Photo by: VisitScotland/Damian Shields

Caerlaverock Castle

Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan, Scotland

The longest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, this fairy-tale place perches on a rock by a loch.

Photo by: MacLeod Estate

436 Dunvegan Castle8

Floors Castle

Kelso, Scotland

From outdoor theatre shows to Halloween frights, this historic house knows how to put on a show.

Photo by: VisitScotland / Ian Rutherford

Location: Lowlands

Floors Castle, Roxburghe estate, Kelso in Roxburghshire

Ballindalloch Castle

Ballindalloch, Scotland

Discover beautiful artworks, storied antiques and decadent decor at the ‘Pearl of the North’.

Photo by: VisitScotland /Damian Shields

Location: Cairngorms

Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens

Dalhousie Castle

Cockpen, Scotland

This hotel spa features a Roman-style sauna, Turkish-inspired steam bath and a menu of decadent treatments.

Photo by: Sean Elliot Photgraphy/Dalhouseie Castle

Location: Lowlands

Dalhousie Castle Spa

Blackness Castle

Linlithgow, Scotland

This 15th-century stronghold is dubbed ‘the ship that never sailed’ thanks to its imposing appearance on the Firth of Forth.

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Blackness Castle

Doune Castle

Doune, Scotland

Let Outlander’s Sam Heughan be your guide on a themed audio tour of this magnificent site.

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Exterior of a partly ruined medieval castle on a small hilltop overlooking fields and trees in autumn.

Drumlanrig Castle

Thornhill, Scotland

Meet the ‘Pink Palace’, star of Outlander series two.

Photo by: Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields

Exterior of a sandstone palace with ornate turrets surrounded by woodland with high mountains in the distance in autumn.

  • Edinburgh Castle

    Edinburgh, Scotland

    Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of a dormant volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Steven Oates

    Location: Edinburgh

    Green and red deck chairs laid out on grass in a park

  • Craigievar Castle

    Alford, Scotland

    A striking fairytale castle that hosts anything from Shakespeare plays to wilderness survival skill workshops.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Ramona Jones

    Woman walking on a path between grass, towards a castle

  • Stirling Castle

    Stirling, Scotland

    Venture into Stirling Castle’s Palace Vaults, stroll the Queen Anne gardens, and experience the opulence of royal life in the 1500s.

    Photo by: valentynagretchyn

    A woman posing in front of Stirling Castle, Scotland

  • Eilean Donan Castle

    Dornie, Scotland

    Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage. Eilean Donan sits in an incredible setting: the castle’s stone turrets are surrounded by rugged peaks, and it sits at the meeting point of three west coast lochs – Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Guy Richardson

    Aerial view of castle and surrounding countryside

  • Urquhart Castle

    Drumnadrochit, Scotland

    Visitors to Urquhart Castle have recorded many Loch Ness Monster sightings over the years, and it even features in a 1955 photo of Nessie.

    Photo by: Inverness & Loch Ness

    A view from above Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness in Scotland.

  • Dunrobin Castle

    Golspie, Scotland

    Dunrobin Castle is the most northerly of Scotland's great houses, and the biggest in the Northern Highlands – with an incredible 189 rooms.

    Photo by: moliviabegnami

    A view from below Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

  • Culzean Castle and Country Park

    Culzean, Scotland

    This is no ordinary castle – Culzean has its very own beach, country park, Adventure Cove and more.

    Photo by: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

    Culzean Castle and Country Park

  • Drummond Castle Gardens

    Crieff, Scotland

    One for nature lovers, Drummond Castle Gardens offer everything from snowy splendour in winter, to a summertime riot of colour.

    Photo by: colindrumwright

    Drummond Castle Gardens

  • Balmoral Castle

    Crathie, Scotland

    The Scottish holiday residence of the British Royal Family. Tour the historic gardens and estate of picturesque Balmoral Castle.

    Photo by: @pumpkin_the_pompom

    Balmoral Castle and Estate

  • Inveraray Castle

    Inverarary, Scotland

    A fusion of modernity, baroque, palladian and gothic, Inveraray Castle was inspired by a sketch from the architect that brought Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard to Britain.

    Photo by: Inveraray Castle

    A view across the grounds of Inveraray Castle

  • Caerlaverock Castle

    Dumfries, Scotland

    Built in the shape of a triangle, this unique 13th-century fortress sits on the southern coast of Scotland.

    Photo by: VisitScotland/Damian Shields

    Caerlaverock Castle

  • Dunvegan Castle

    Dunvegan, Scotland

    The longest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, this fairy-tale place perches on a rock by a loch.

    Photo by: MacLeod Estate

    436 Dunvegan Castle8

  • Floors Castle

    Kelso, Scotland

    From outdoor theatre shows to Halloween frights, this historic house knows how to put on a show.

    Photo by: VisitScotland / Ian Rutherford

    Location: Lowlands

    Floors Castle, Roxburghe estate, Kelso in Roxburghshire

  • Ballindalloch Castle

    Ballindalloch, Scotland

    Discover beautiful artworks, storied antiques and decadent decor at the ‘Pearl of the North’.

    Photo by: VisitScotland /Damian Shields

    Location: Cairngorms

    Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens

  • Dalhousie Castle

    Cockpen, Scotland

    This hotel spa features a Roman-style sauna, Turkish-inspired steam bath and a menu of decadent treatments.

    Photo by: Sean Elliot Photgraphy/Dalhouseie Castle

    Location: Lowlands

    Dalhousie Castle Spa

  • Blackness Castle

    Linlithgow, Scotland

    This 15th-century stronghold is dubbed ‘the ship that never sailed’ thanks to its imposing appearance on the Firth of Forth.

    Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

    Location: Lowlands

    Blackness Castle

  • Doune Castle

    Doune, Scotland

    Let Outlander’s Sam Heughan be your guide on a themed audio tour of this magnificent site.

    Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

    Exterior of a partly ruined medieval castle on a small hilltop overlooking fields and trees in autumn.

  • Drumlanrig Castle

    Thornhill, Scotland

    Meet the ‘Pink Palace’, star of Outlander series two.

    Photo by: Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields

    Exterior of a sandstone palace with ornate turrets surrounded by woodland with high mountains in the distance in autumn.

The best castles to see in Wales

Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly, Wales

Just outside Cardiff, step into history at Caerphilly Castle, which dates back to the 13th century.

Photo by: VisitWales

Location: Cardiff, Wales

A woman in sunglasses looking out across Caerphilly Castle

Castell Coch

Cardiff, Wales

Almost plucked straight from a fairytale, Castell Coch is a medieval style castle built by Victorians, and is surrounded by woodland idyll.

Photo by: Cadw Photographic Library

Location: Wales

A juggler in costume juggling balls at Castell Coch in Wales

Raglan Castle

Raglan, Wales

Cutting a megalithic figure on the Monmouthshire countryside, Raglan Castle features turrets, moats and Tudor tours and falconry days.

Photo by: Tom Martin/WALES NEWS SERVICE

SVW-C47-1617-0003

Harlech Castle

Harlech, Wales

Explore the dramatic ruins of Harlech Castle through immersive storytelling, Knight School and staged battles, all with a backdrop of Snowdonia (Eryri).

Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Castle standing on a grassy hilltop. Blue skies and clouds

Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon, Wales

More than 700 years old, Caernarfon Castle towers over the River Seiont in north Wales and hosts a ram-packed calendar of events beneath its turrets.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Row boats in a moat surrounding a castle

Conwy Castle, Conwy

Conwy, Wales

Standing tall for more than 700 years, this medieval fortress overlooks the pretty town of Conwy – both a joy to explore.

Photo by: VisitBritain/David Angel

Location: North Wales

A castle lit up at night in winter snow near harbour

Beaumaris Castle

Beaumaris, Wales

Explore the packed events of the near-finished Beaumaris Castle – the last to be built by King Edward I in north Wales.

Photo by: Cadw Photographic Library

Man in costume carrying crossbow during a show at Beaumaris Castle, Wales

Laugharne Castle

Laugharne, Wales

Part castle, part Tudor mansion, Laugharne Castle was the place that inspired famous Welsh poet Dylan Thomas.

Photo by: Crown Copyright (2022) Cadw

View from the outside of Laugharne Castle

Pembroke Castle

Pembroke, Wales

The only castle in Britain to be built over a natural cavern.

Photo by: Peter Morgan

A long range shot of Pembroke Castle at night

Gwrych Castle

Abergele, Wales

Before 2020, Gwrych Castle was best known for its beautiful ruins and picturesque gardens – then it became a reality TV star.

Photo by: ITV / Lifted Entertainment

Location: North Wales

Gwrych Castle: I'm a Celebrity

Craig y Nos Castle

Swansea, Wales

Is this Wales’ most haunted castle? Join a ghost tour and find out.

Photo by: lynnewilliams_photography

Young child sat on a green armchair in front of a fireplace with a teddy bear next to them at Criag y Nos Castle in the Brecon Beacons

Criccieth Castle

Criccieth, Wales

Standing proudly over Cardigan Bay, these mighty ruins look straight out of a storybook.

Photo by: Visit Wales

A castle on top of a hill beside a beach, surrounded by colourful buildings.

  • Caerphilly Castle

    Caerphilly, Wales

    Just outside Cardiff, step into history at Caerphilly Castle, which dates back to the 13th century.

    Photo by: VisitWales

    Location: Cardiff, Wales

    A woman in sunglasses looking out across Caerphilly Castle

  • Castell Coch

    Cardiff, Wales

    Almost plucked straight from a fairytale, Castell Coch is a medieval style castle built by Victorians, and is surrounded by woodland idyll.

    Photo by: Cadw Photographic Library

    Location: Wales

    A juggler in costume juggling balls at Castell Coch in Wales

  • Raglan Castle

    Raglan, Wales

    Cutting a megalithic figure on the Monmouthshire countryside, Raglan Castle features turrets, moats and Tudor tours and falconry days.

    Photo by: Tom Martin/WALES NEWS SERVICE

    SVW-C47-1617-0003

  • Harlech Castle

    Harlech, Wales

    Explore the dramatic ruins of Harlech Castle through immersive storytelling, Knight School and staged battles, all with a backdrop of Snowdonia (Eryri).

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

    Castle standing on a grassy hilltop. Blue skies and clouds

  • Caernarfon Castle

    Caernarfon, Wales

    More than 700 years old, Caernarfon Castle towers over the River Seiont in north Wales and hosts a ram-packed calendar of events beneath its turrets.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

    Row boats in a moat surrounding a castle

  • Conwy Castle, Conwy

    Conwy, Wales

    Standing tall for more than 700 years, this medieval fortress overlooks the pretty town of Conwy – both a joy to explore.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/David Angel

    Location: North Wales

    A castle lit up at night in winter snow near harbour

  • Beaumaris Castle

    Beaumaris, Wales

    Explore the packed events of the near-finished Beaumaris Castle – the last to be built by King Edward I in north Wales.

    Photo by: Cadw Photographic Library

    Man in costume carrying crossbow during a show at Beaumaris Castle, Wales

  • Laugharne Castle

    Laugharne, Wales

    Part castle, part Tudor mansion, Laugharne Castle was the place that inspired famous Welsh poet Dylan Thomas.

    Photo by: Crown Copyright (2022) Cadw

    View from the outside of Laugharne Castle

  • Pembroke Castle

    Pembroke, Wales

    The only castle in Britain to be built over a natural cavern.

    Photo by: Peter Morgan

    A long range shot of Pembroke Castle at night

  • Gwrych Castle

    Abergele, Wales

    Before 2020, Gwrych Castle was best known for its beautiful ruins and picturesque gardens – then it became a reality TV star.

    Photo by: ITV / Lifted Entertainment

    Location: North Wales

    Gwrych Castle: I'm a Celebrity

  • Craig y Nos Castle

    Swansea, Wales

    Is this Wales’ most haunted castle? Join a ghost tour and find out.

    Photo by: lynnewilliams_photography

    Young child sat on a green armchair in front of a fireplace with a teddy bear next to them at Criag y Nos Castle in the Brecon Beacons

  • Criccieth Castle

    Criccieth, Wales

    Standing proudly over Cardigan Bay, these mighty ruins look straight out of a storybook.

    Photo by: Visit Wales

    A castle on top of a hill beside a beach, surrounded by colourful buildings.

Explore the best castles in Northern Ireland

Dunluce Castle

Bushmills, Northern Ireland

Though the castle itself dates back to the 16th century, this clifftop spot has over 2,000 years of human history to explore.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

People looking at a historic stony castle from a hill

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Visit the official residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland.

Photo by: @historicroyalpalaces

Hillsborough Castle and garden

  • Dunluce Castle

    Bushmills, Northern Ireland

    Though the castle itself dates back to the 16th century, this clifftop spot has over 2,000 years of human history to explore.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

    People looking at a historic stony castle from a hill

  • Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

    Belfast, Northern Ireland

    Visit the official residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland.

    Photo by: @historicroyalpalaces

    Hillsborough Castle and garden

British castles you can stay in

There’s a range of gorgeous British castles you can stay in across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, each certain to add a touch of magic to your visit. With luxurious and traditional antique décor and spectacular views, here are just a few that you may want to put at the top of your list.

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Fancy staying in a medieval castle? Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, the imposing Warwick Castle holds two hidden gems within the 14th-century Caesar’s Tower. Fit for royalty, you can choose from two private chambers to spend the night in this British castle. The suites are decorated in traditional medieval style complete with four-poster beds and dark wooden furniture. Each booking includes the full VIP service with two-day Warwick Castle entry tickets, champagne on arrival, a concierge service, breakfast, a private tour of the castle, afternoon tea and more.

Photo by: gary718/Shutterstock

Location: Warwick Castle

A hot air balloon floats over Warwick Castle in Warwickshire, England.

Langley Castle, Northumberland

For a dramatic building that makes a statement, Langley Castle ticks the boxes. This 14th-century castle hotel has a rich history of lords and ladies. There are nine opulently designed rooms within the castle with original features dotted throughout. The castle is a popular stop-off point between England and Scotland, Hadrian’s Wall is close by and the Lake District is around a one hour drive.

Photo by: Diane Makepeace

Fourteenth-century castle surrounded by trees and with fields in the distance

Peckforton Castle, Cheshire

Built around 1850, this medieval-style castle in England was given Grade I listed status in 1952. At Peckforton Castle you can expect a luxurious stay with mod-cons including underfloor heating and 24-hour in-room dining, all set within the original features of the hotel. With accessible bedrooms available and a choice of fine dining, you can expect turrets, towers and four-poster beds.

Roch Castle, Pembrokeshire

With a dominating position high on a rocky outcrop, a stay in Roch Castle provides renovated modern luxury within the walls of this 12th-century stronghold. However, it’s not just the interior but also the exterior views that make this one of the most beautiful castles in Wales. Built by the Norman knight Adam de Rupe, the castle boasts 360 degree views of the Pembrokeshire coastline and surrounding countryside and offers bed and Welsh breakfast.

Photo by: Planet Wales

Location: Roch Castle in Wales

The sun setting behind Roch Castle in Wales.

Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire  

Wander in the footsteps of kings and queens at Thornbury Castle. Once owned by King Henry VIII and Queen Mary I, choose from a number of bedchambers, with tapestries, fabrics and period furniture taking you on a journey back to Tudor Britain. You can even sleep in the Henry VIII Suite, where the king himself stayed in 1535 with his wife at the time, Anne Boleyn.

Photo by: Visit Bristol / Frank Beaumier

A woman looks out of a window while holding her case in a hotel bedroom

Inverlochy Castle, Fort William

This famous 19th-century castle in the Scottish Highlands once received high praise from Queen Victoria, who spent a week at Inverlochy Castle in 1873 while on a trip to Balmoral, declaring: “I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot.” Inside the castle hotel, bedrooms are warm and inviting and there are a range of dining experiences to choose from, including Seasgair, overseen by world-renowned chef Michel Roux Jr. Dining here is high-end yet inclusive, with separate vegan and vegetarian menus, afternoon tea and a suitably mammoth whisky list.

Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Make the famous walls of Bamburgh Castle your home with a stay at The Clock Tower, a luxurious yet cosy apartment built into the 13th-century tower and turret of the castle walls. Offering striking views over some of Northumberland’s most impressive scenery, you’ll get exclusive access to the castle grounds, as well as the state rooms when the castle is open. The quirky three-bedroom accommodation offers a delightful mix of antique furniture, stylish heritage decor and the latest modern appliances, giving it a firm place on both our list of England’s most beautiful castles and British castles you can stay in.

Photo by: VisitBritain

Rear view of man standing in a landscape looking at a castle

Sherbrooke Castle, Glasgow

Yet another castle you can stay in in Scotland, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel is a baronial building crafted in rich red sandstone. Offering not only rooms within the walls of the castle itself, you can also book cottage and garden suites. The luxurious bedrooms are the ideal place to relax after an action-packed day exploring Glasgow. Sherbrooke Castle Hotel is located on the south side of the city in the peaceful surroundings of Pollokshields.

Photo by: Sherbrooke Castle Hotel, Glasgow

Steps going up to a hotel entrance

Hedingham Castle, Essex

Fit for a king or a queen, The Royal Chamber at Hedingham Castle offers a grand four poster bed so you can experience the royal treatment in the heights of the castle. While guests had previously been able to stay in properties located around the castle’s medieval park, you can now spend the night inside the 900-year-old building itself. Soak up the room’s majesty in the spacious double bath before venturing out to explore the surrounding Essex countryside.

Wardhill Castle, Aberdeenshire

Wardhill Castle, a historic family home for nearly 1,000 years, invites you to experience the magic of a true Scottish castle stay. Steeped in history and celebrity, it’s where Game of Thrones stars Kit Harington and Rose Leslie were married. Available for exclusive weekly rental, look to Wardhill for family gatherings, executive retreats, or unforgettable escapes with friends.

Castle FAQs

  • There are more than 4,000 castles in Britain, spread across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Giving an exact figure is difficult due to differences in what might be defined as a castle. While some are well preserved and even still inhabited, others are historic ruins.

  • Warwick Castle is in Warwickshire, England, and sits by the River Avon. It’s roughly 20 minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon, 45–50 minutes from Birmingham and two hours from London. 

  • Highclere Castle, which is famous for featuring in the TV show Downton Abbey, is located six miles (9.7km) from the town centre of Newbury in England. 

  • Highclere Castle is around 60 miles (96.6km) from London and reachable in roughly 1.5-2.5 hours depending on mode of transport.

  • The oldest castle in Britain is Pevensey Castle in East Sussex which began its life as a roman fort around the year 290 AD. Windsor Castle, which is also in England, is the oldest British castle still in use – founded in the 11th century. 

  • The last and most recent castle built in Britain was Castle Drogo in Devon, England, which was completed in 1930. 

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