EXPLORING english castles

With so many castles in England, it can be hard to decide which one to visit. From grand fortresses like Dover Castle, forgotten ruins to the most magnificent fortifications, England has them all.

Let’s start with some very popular and most visited English Castles.

WINDSOR CASTLE

Windsor Castle was the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II before her passing in 2022. Each year thousands of visitors from all over the world come to visit and marvel at this incredible fortress.

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, it is the largest and oldest lived in castle in the world. Many Monarchs, Kings and Queens have used it as a residence, most only occupying the castle for short periods of time. Some Monarchs like Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had made it their home.

As it sits on a hill overlooking the river Thames, only a short distance away from London, Windsor Castle makes an impressive site.

WARWICK CASTLE

Visiting this Medieval Castle, located on a hill above a bend in the river Avon, is a fantastic day out. Come prepared. There is so much to experience and explore, you will need a whole day to discover more than a thousand years of fascinating history.

William the Conqueror ordered the construction of a motte and bailey castle around 1068 as he tried to consolidate his power in England. In the 12th century Warwick Castle was rebuilt in stone.

Regular Warwick Castle Events include jousting tournaments, bird of prey displays and numerous other shows and attractions. Be brave and enter the Castle Dungeon.

LEEDS CASTLE

Leeds Castle must surely be one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Built on islands in a natural lake and surrounded by wonderful gardens and parkland, it now offers its visitors a wide range of events and activities.

The History of Leeds Castle is impressive. From being a Norman stronghold, Leeds Castle went on to become a true Royal Castle. In the 16th century Henry VIII transformed it into a magnificent royal palace.

From the 17th century Leeds Castle began to go into private ownership. In 1974 the property was placed into the trust of a charitable foundation which now welcomes visitors from all over the world. From organizing banquets and celebrations, Leeds Castle is also a popular wedding venue.

HEVER CASTLE

Built in 1270 by William de Hever, the castle passed to the Boleyn family in 1462. It became the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, King Henry VIII's second wife.

The castle is surrounded by a moat. The castle’s rooms contain priceless tapestries, furniture, magnificent tudor painting collections and two prayer books inscribed and signed by Anne Boleyn.

After changing ownership several times throughout its history, Hever Castle was bought by the first Viscount Astor in 1903, who had the castle and gardens restored beautifully.

The wonderful gardens at Hever Castle have many magnificent areas, particularly the Italian Garden, which displays William Waldorf Astor’s collection of Italian sculptures.

ARUNDEL CASTLE

Arundel Castle is set high on a hill overlooking the river Arun in West Sussex. Built at the end of the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Arundel, the castle has undergone significant changes during its almost 1000 year history.

Arundel Castle started off as a motte and bailey structure surrounded by a dry moat. A stone keep was added later, followed by the construction of a stone castle by Henry II.

The Dukes of Norfolk made Arundel Castle their home and a vivid history follows them throughout the centuries. Henry Fitzalan-Howard, the 15th Duke of Norfolk, restored the castle fully and work was completed in 1900. It was one of the first castles to be fitted with electricity and central heating.

THE TOWER OF LONDON

Right in the heart of London by the river Thames, the Tower of London has to be one of the most famous medieval castles in England.

The Tower has a notorious history. Founded by William the Conqueror around 1066 it has served many purposes. Home of the Crown Jewels for over 600 years, it has housed many prisoners including Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, both wives of Henry VIII, who were executed there.

The role of the Beefeater is also closely entwined with the history of the Tower. They are the ceremonial guards of the tower and are nowadays tour guides for millions of visitors.

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