Time has taken its toll on these ancient buildings, abandoned for centuries and the impenetrable castles and imposing strongholds a shell of their former glory.
There are hundreds of castle ruins found all over the UK, whether near a town or a city, surrounded by spectacular countryside views or perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking a stormy sea. All tell a story of the captivating history of Britain.
Many castles were slighted, which meant that they were partially demolished by government forces, so that rebels could not use them as fortifications. Others were simply abandoned in favour of more comfortable living conditions in Manor Houses. In both cases any good quality stones were removed and reused and the rest of the castle was left to fall into ruins.
That's what makes them so fascinating to visit. It's a journey of discovery, imagining what imposing and fascinating fortresses they must have once been.