Ready for some castle-hopping?
From haunting ruins steeped in history to mighty fortresses that have witnessed royal dramas, England’s castles are waiting to be explored by you.
Let’s take a quick train tour of some of the best castles in England, the land of Arthurian legends and knightly tales!
Image Credit: Getty Images, doubtfulneddy. Image Location: Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, England
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland: a spellbinding experience
Ever fancied a stroll through Hogwarts? Alnwick Castle is your go-to magical escape, minus the dragons. Broomstick training here is more than just a fantasy as this castle starred as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter movies. Wingardium Leviosa!
Nearest train station: Alnmouth for Alnwick
Dover Castle, Kent: a rock-solid fort
To simply say that Dover Castle is old would be an understatement: it’s a real rockstar of the medieval world. Standing tall on the White Cliffs, this castle hosts a Roman lighthouse and a medieval tunnel system. Talk about multi-era multitasking!
Nearest train station: Dover Priory
Image Credit: Getty Images, Traveladventure. Image Location: Arundel Castle, West Sussex, England
Arundel Castle, West Sussex: a celebrity in its own right
Arundel Castle is a stately home where medieval meets modern — well, 18th-century modern. Knowing its worth, this castle has made an appearance on the big screen in The Young Victoria (2009), starring Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend. Lights, camera, Arundel!
Nearest train station: Arundel
Hever Castle, Kent: romance and ruin
Hever Castle is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. She might have left, but her spirit (and maybe her ghost?) still lingers on in this dramatic Tudor castle and its picturesque gardens. It’s the perfect spot for enthusiastic history buffs and hopeless romantics.
Nearest train station: Hever
Did you know? Hever Castle offers two fabulous stay-over options right on the grounds. Choose between their 5-star luxury B&B, nestled in the Astor Wing and Anne Boleyn Wing — both brimming with Edwardian elegance and connected to the castle itself. Or, opt for Medley Court, a “five-star gold” rated holiday cottage attached to the Astor Wing. Bonus: each booking includes tickets to the Castle & Gardens. Talk about sleeping like royalty!
Image Credit: Getty Images, stockcam. Image Location: St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, Windsor, England
Windsor Castle, Berkshire: a royal residence
Windsor Castle was Queen Elizabeth’s favorite weekend getaway — and once you’re there, you’ll totally get why. Windsor is also the longest-occupied palace in Europe. Membership in the royal family, sadly, is not included in admission.
Nearest train station: Windsor & Eton Central or Windsor & Eton Riverside
Warwick Castle, Warwickshire: medieval jousting
History at Warwick Castle isn’t just displayed — it’s lived. Visit the Wars of the Roses LIVE! — an action-packed jousting show set in a specially constructed River Arena. It features skilled horsemen and breathtaking stunts, running annually from late May to early September. Brace yourself for the Dragon Slayer spectacle, available on select dates in August, and explore the castle’s historical dungeons. And yes, you’ll get to see knights in shining armor!
Nearest train station: Warwick
Rochester Castle, Kent: standing tall through time
Rocester Castle’s most striking feature, the 12th-century keep (a stone tower), is one of the best preserved in England or France. It has seen more battles than you’ve had hot dinners!
Nearest train station: Rochester
Image Credit: Getty Images, mbtaichi. Image Location: Rochester Castle, Kent, England
Castles in England FAQs
How many castles are there in England?
England is home to over 4,000 castles — that’s a lot of stone and stories. However, the exact number varies depending on different definitions of what constitutes a castle. These include everything from fortresses and keeps to ruins.
What is the oldest castle in England?
Although the title of the oldest castle in England is often disputed, the Tower of London is considered one of the oldest. William the Conqueror began its construction in 1066, and it has played a key role in English history.
What castle burned in England?
One notable castle that suffered a significant fire is Windsor Castle. In 1992, a fire broke out in Queen Victoria’s Private Chapel and caused severe damage, leading to a five-year restoration project.
Where is Windsor Castle in England?
Windsor Castle is located in the county of Berkshire, in the South East of England. It's situated about 23 miles west of London and is known for being one of the official residences of the British monarchy.
Where is Balmoral Castle in England?
Many people mistakenly assume Balmoral Castle is in England; in fact, Balmoral Castle is located in Scotland. It’s situated in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, and is one of the private residences of the British Royal Family. Queen Elizabeth II loved it wholeheartedly.
Image Credit: Getty Images, grahamheywood. Image Location: Hever Castle, Kent, England
In which English castles can you stay?
England offers quite a bunch of castles where you can stay, ranging from luxury accommodations to more rustic settings. Some popular choices include Amberley Castle in West Sussex, Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire, and Hever Castle in Kent.
Pack your bags and your sense of adventure — England’s most beautiful castles are waiting to tell you their knight tales!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, David Tomlinson. Image Location: Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, England
