The British Isles are home to some of the most stunning castles in the world, each with a rich and fascinating history. Some of these historic fortresses are mainstays on the tourist trail, while others are hidden gems that reward travellers who are determined enough to seek them out.
Here are 20 of the top castles to visit in the British Isles:
1. Edinburgh Castle - Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, this castle was originally the fortress of Din Eidyn of the Gododdin Britons. It has stood for over a thousand years and is one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks. Book tickets and tour options HERE.
2. Windsor Castle - One of the official residences of the British monarch, this castle is located in Berkshire, England, and has been home to the royal family for over 900 years. It was originally built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion of England in 1066. If you are in London, you way want to consider a London City Pass, or at least 'skip-the-line' tickets for Windsor Castle as this is a popular attraction. See the details HERE.
3. Blarney Castle - Located in County Cork, in the south of Ireland, this castle is famous for its Blarney Stone, which is said to give those who kiss it the gift of the gab. It dates to about 1446. You can book a day trip and tour from Dublin HERE.
4. Caernarfon Castle - This medieval castle in North Wales was built by King Edward I in the 13th century and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stands as a beautiful and imposing monument by the water in the town of Caernarfon.
5. Stirling Castle - Another Scottish castle, this one sits atop a hill in Stirling and played a pivotal role in many of Scotland's wars of independence. Stirling was considered the strategic ‘gateway to the highlands’ and was the site of many battles in history, including the Battle of Stirling Bridge (1297) and the Battle of Bannockburn (1314) which took place nearby. This is a magnificent castle that is well worth a visit. It sits between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Book a guided tour of this wonderful castle HERE.
6. Warwick Castle - This castle in Warwickshire, England, dates back to the 11th century and has been beautifully restored, making it a popular tourist destination. It has an impressive collection of arms and armour in the great hall, as well as a medieval dungeon and torture exhibit that is sure to make an impression. You can book day trips from London to see Warwick Castle, as well as Oxford, and Shakespeare's Stratford by CLICKING HERE.
7. Dunnottar Castle - Perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea in Scotland, this castle has a rich and often violent history. It is located in a beautiful and dramatic setting and has even been used as a location in some films, including Hamlet with Mel Gibson, Ian Holm, Helena Bonham Carter, and Glen Close.
8. Bodiam Castle - Located in East Sussex, England, this castle is surrounded by a moat and has one of the most picturesque settings of any castle in the British Isles. This castle is perhaps the quintessential medieval English castle for most tourists.
9. Cahir Castle - Situated on an island in the River Suir in the county Tipperary, Ireland, this castle was first built in 1142 and has played a key role in Irish history over the centuries.
10. Dover Castle - This castle in Kent, England, has been a fortress for over 900 years and has played an important role in British military history. It is an imposing structure that is definitely worth a visit. This castle can be visited as a day trip from London, and even combined in a tour with Canterbury. CLICK HERE for details.
11. Blenheim Palace - Although not technically a castle, this stately home in Oxfordshire, England, is still one of the most impressive buildings in the British Isles. It is the ancestral home of the Dukes of Marlborough, and wonderful example of Baroque architecture. You can get even more out of this site with a guided tour HERE.
12. South Cadbury Castle (‘Camelot’) - Located in eastern Somerset, England, this is an imposing Iron Age hill fort that is of great importance to British archaeology, myth, and legend. Of all other sites associated with the legend of King Arthur, the archaeological evidence found here makes this massive hill fort the best candidate for the historical Arthur’s ‘Camelot’. Located a short distance from Stonehenge and London, this site is worth a visit and provides a calm walk with wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.
13. Hampton Court Palace - Another stately home rather than a castle, this palace at the outskirts of London has been home to many British monarchs, including Henry VIII. Begun in 1514, it is famous for its Tudor architecture and beautiful gardens. Purchase your tickets HERE to step into the world of King Henry VIII!
14. Maiden Castle - Although not a typical stone, medieval castle, this is the largest Iron Age hill fort in Britain. It was the site of one of the most brutal battles between the native Britons and Romans during the invasion of Britain. Enjoy a long walk with dramatic vistas over the sweeping Dorset countryside when you visit this amazing, man-made earthwork.
15. Conwy Castle - Another Welsh castle built by Edward I in the 13th century, this castle is famous for its imposing walls and towers.
16. Caerphilly Castle - The largest castle in Wales, this fortress was built in the 13th century and is now a popular tourist attraction. This was also the site of a Roman fort built around 75 C.E.
17. Carrickfergus Castle - Situated on the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland, this castle has been in continuous use for over 800 years.
18. Tintagel Castle - This Cornish castle is famous for its links to the legend of King Arthur and is located in one of the most beautiful spots in England. Myth, legend, and history come together in this important historical site perched dramatically over the cliffs of Cornwall. If you visit, make sure to check out Merlin’s Cave on the beach beneath the fortress.
19. Balmoral Castle - The Scottish holiday home of the British monarch, this castle is set in the beautiful Scottish Highlands and is open to the public during the summer months. If you are touring Scotland, the 'Northern Highlights' pass is an excellent deal that gets you discounts on major attractions, including Balmoral Castle. CLICK HERE for details.
20. Doune Castle - Another Scottish castle, this one is located in Perthshire, northwest of Stirling. It is small but well-preserved and has been used as a setting in such films as Monty Python and the Search for the Holy Grail, and the television mini series, Ivanhoe.
These are but a few of the castles that you can visit while you are in the British Isles.
There are countless others, each of which as its own charm and wonderful history, so be sure to do some research for each area you are planning on visiting. Learning the history and stories related to each castle will definitely enrich your experience.
Visiting these castles will allow you to step back in time and experience the history and beauty of the British Isles firsthand for a vacation you will never forget.
Remember to check out our ‘Travel Resources’ page for travel deals, and recommendations around accommodation, food, site visits, and more!
Here’s to a magnificent journey!
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