Book tickets and explore the best castles to visit in the UK
The United Kingdom is a land where history seamlessly intertwines with modern day, where legends come to life amidst the backdrop of stunning landscapes.
Among the countless treasures this island nation boasts, its castles stand as eternal sentinels, guarding the stories of centuries past.
From the rugged highlands of Scotland to the rolling green hills of England and the mystical landscapes of Wales and Northern Ireland, the UK is home to an unparalleled collection of castles that welcome us all, and lots are dog-friendly attractions too!
Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the best castles in the UK, where each fortress unveils a unique chapter in the grand tapestry of British history.
Why castles perfect family attractions
There's nothing quite like a visit to one of these famous British castles to spark the historical imagination...
If you're on the hunt for great family days out in the UK, we love the idea of going back in time during a visit one of these UK's top castles.
Why are castles perfect family attractions?
- Castles are a great combination of outdoor attraction and rainy day attraction. So come rain or shine, you're all going to have fun
- You learn stuff! History is important and our British castles are the key to a lot of crucial history
- Make a full family day out of it with a tour of the castle, a walk through the grounds and trails, and a picnic or café pitstop
- Lots of castles have incredible family Christmas events, Halloween events for families and more taking place throughout the year
- Castles are brilliant for unlocking our imaginations. Adventure back in time as a family and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Here are our top picks for best British castles to visit for families:
- Leeds Castle tickets, Kent
- Berkeley Castle tickets, Gloucestershire
- Warwick Castle tickets, Warwickshire
- Dover Castle tickets, South East England
- Watermouth Castle & Theme Park tickets, Devon
- Caerphilly Castle tickets, near Cardiff
England is renowned for its castles due to a rich history steeped in medieval warfare, monarchy, and architectural grandeur. These imposing fortifications dot the English landscape, serving as enduring symbols of power and prestige. The country's castle legacy can be traced back to the Norman Conquest in 1066 when William the Conqueror commissioned the construction of numerous castles to assert control over the newly conquered land.
Here are some of the best castles to visit in England:
- Cholmondeley Castle Gardens tickets - Cheshire
- Tiverton Castle tickets - Devon
- Alnwick Castle tickets - Northumberland
- Dover Castle tickets - Kent
- Forde Abbey tickets - Dorset
- Kenilworth Castle tickets - Warwickshire
- Newcastle Castle tickets - Newcastle-upon-Tyne
- Powderham Castle tickets - Devon
- Carisbrooke Castle tickets - Isle of Wight
- Windsor Castle tickets - London
Top castles in Wales
Wales is often referred to as the "Castle Capital of the World" and has more castles per square mile than any other country.
Wales' castles serve as living testimonies to the country's rich heritage, attracting history buffs and visitors keen to explore their stories and the enchanting Welsh countryside they grace.
Scroll through these tiles to see some of the best Castles in Wales:
Some of our top castles in Wales include...
North Wales:
- Denbigh Castle tickets
- Beaumaris Castle tickets
- Conwy Castle tickets
- Harlech Castle tickets
- Valle Crucis Abbey tickets
- Caernarfon Castle tickets
South Wales:
- Raglan Castle tickets
- Castell Coch tickets
- Chepstow Castle tickets
- Tintern Abbey tickets
- Weobley Castle tickets
- Caerphilly Castle tickets
- Oxwich Castle tickets
West Wales:
- Criccieth Castle tickets
- Cilgerran Castle tickets
- Laugharne Castle tickets
- Kidwelly Castle tickets
- Carreg Cennen Castle tickets
- St David's Bishop's Palace tickets
Scottish castle experiences steeped in history!
Scotland's castle heritage is deeply rooted in its storied past of clan rivalries, battles for independence, and royal intrigue.
Iconic castles such as Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, and Eilean Donan Castle stand as symbols of the country's resilience and endurance.
Scotland's castles often boast stunning locations, perched on cliffs, surrounded by lochs, or nestled amidst verdant glens. This combination of history, dramatic scenery, and architectural splendor makes Scotland's castles a magnet for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Scotland's past and present.