London x London

Posted on 4th January 2024 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

24 Must-Visit Castles in and Near London

24 Must-Visit Castles in and Near London

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A step-by-step guide to exploring the best castles you can visit in a short trip from the capital (and a couple in London if you don’t want to leave the city). 

The regions surrounding London are filled with some of the UK’s most impressive castles – and exploring them is a fascinating way to find out more about the history that has shaped these lands.

But first of all, you have to know where to look. Some places, like Hadleigh castle are Romantic tumbling ruins, others like Windsor are still inhabited by royals. One thing they all have in common: they all look stunning.  

Here are the best castles close to what’s beginning to feel like a very under-fortified London (as well as a couple of London castles too) – complete with details for how to get to each one. What are you waiting for?

Castles Near London

Bodiam castle.

Bodiam Castle

Everyone knows that the best castles have moats – and Bodiam Castle in East Sussex has a great one. The castle was built in the 14th century by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a celebrated knight of Richard II.

Today, it is one of the most beautiful castles in all of England. Romantics, historians and photographers are all likely to be totally besotted by its battlements.

It also boasts expansive grounds full of walking trails where you can discover plenty of unique plants – and maybe a few cute animals like hedgehogs.

Tickets to visit Bodiam Castle are £11 (or £12.10 with gift aid). National Trust members go free.

The Castle is also the jumping-off point for one of our favourite country walks near London .

How to get to Bodiam Castle: The easiest way to get to Bodiam Castle from London is to catch the Kent & East Sussex Railways (KESR) train to Tenterden. In the summer, there is a steam train from Tenterden to Bodiam Castle . You can also get the train to Robertsbridge or Battle, and get a taxi to the castle.

Read Next: Brilliant Day Trips from London

Camber Castle

King Henry built Winchelsea Castle in the 16th century to protect England’s southern coast from attack by the French. These days the ruin of this fort is known as Camber Castle, and the seaside location and windswept landscapes make it a striking place to visit.

The first thing you’ll notice are the castle’s circular walls. This was a common feature in the fortifications of the day and was a defence against cannon, the round shape strengthening the walls against heavy projectiles. 

It’s almost certain the castle was never used in defence of a French attack, instead it lived out its days in peace until it was dismantled by Parliamentarians to prevent it from falling into Royalist hands during the Civil War. 

Adults can get into Camber Castle for £3. Children under 17 go free. 

How to get there: The fastest way (just under two hours) to Camber Castle is by train from St Pancras to Rye and a short walk.

Hever Castle

Hever Castle

Beautiful Hever Castle in Kent is one of the most historic in England, having been lived in by not one but two of Henry VIII’s wives – Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves.

It was originally built as a country house in the 13th century but was later fortified to protect the wealthy tax collector that lived there. It became property of the Boleyn family, who lived there for almost a century.

This link with the Boleyn family is one of the most interesting things about the castle, and there are several exhibits of documents and objects relating to the family and the Tudors.

There are also beautiful gardens, and even a new water garden and a maze which is great for kids (and kids at heart).

It’s cheapest to buy entrance tickets online – it’s £22.00 + £1.10 booking fee for the gardens and the castle.

How to get to Hever Castle: The easiest way to get to the castle is by car; if you don’t have one, there is a train that runs from London Victoria or London Bridge. You can either stop at Edenbridge Town Station and get a taxi for the three miles to the castle, or walk one mile from Hever Station.

Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle

This is not just another beautiful castle around London – it’s the setting for a little show known as Downton Abbey .

One look at the gorgeous Highclere Castle and it’s clear why it was picked – it really is your quintessential grand English castle.

The estate itself is thought to date back from the 8th century, although most of what is on show today is from the 19th century.

As well as the beautiful castle, the grounds are also the perfect place for a country stroll, and there’s an impressive collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts as well.

The castle is only open on select days in summer, although parts of the grounds are open year-round. You can check the website for public openings and special events. Ticket prices change depending on the time of year, but you’re looking at about £30 for the castle, Egypt exhibition and gardens.

You can also do a Downton Abbey tour with lunch.

How to get to Highclere Castle: The easiest way to get to the castle from London by public transport is to take the train from London Paddington to Newbury. From here, it’s about a 15-minute taxi ride (advance booking is recommended).

Herstmonceux Castle

Herstmonceaux Castle

The imposingly beautiful Herstmonceux Castle is unique as it is one of the biggest and most significant brick-built castles in the UK.

Surrounded by a large moat with a bridge across, it is truly picturesque. Honestly, this is our personal favourite – not only is it incredibly beautiful, but it’s also much quieter than some of the better-known castles nearby.

As well as the impressive castle, the immaculate grounds are also gorgeous, with lots of walking and cycling trails.

It’s also a hub for science, as it is home to the Herstmonceux Science Centre which, amongst other things, has a great collection of telescopes.

The castle is open from early March to early November. An adult entry ticket for the grounds and the castle is £8.

How to get to Herstmonceux Castle: To reach the castle by public transport, you can get the train from Waterloo to Polegate, and then get the 98 bus to Herstmonceux, where it’s a short walk (or taxi ride) to the castle.

Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle

Although it is technically in “ruinous” condition, Rochester Castle features one of the best preserved ‘keeps’ (large towers) anywhere in the UK or France.

The keep was built in 1127, as the castle’s location was of great tactical significance. As a result of this prime defensive location, it was heavily fortified.

Nonetheless, the castle was besieged repeatedly. Most famously, King John laid siege to rebels held up in the castle; part of the keep was destroyed, and eventually starvation caused the rebels to surrender.

By the 17th century, the castle had fallen partly to ruin. It has been partly restored and is one of the most beautiful castle ruins in the country.

The castle is managed by English Heritage, and members get in free. For non-members, tickets can be bought online or at the castle. An adult ticket is £7.70.

How to get to Rochester Castle: The castle is located in Kent, near Rochester. There are frequent trains from London to Rochester, and then it’s about a ½ mile walk to the castle.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle calls itself “the loveliest Castle in the world”, and we can see why. We don’t like to play favourites, but this one is pretty special.

Floating in the midst of a lake, it’s a gorgeous sight. Although there’s been a castle on the grounds since the 12th century, most of what is on show nowadays dates from the 19th century and is more country house than fortification. 

It’s been a popular filming location for decades – most recently featuring the much-loved TV series Doctor Who .

Entry tickets are £30 online (£35 at the gate), and entitle you to entry for a whole year. You can also stay overnight in a cottage or try “ glamping ” if you want a bit longer to soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

How to get to Leeds Castle: Despite its name, Leeds Castle is actually in Kent. You can get the Southeastern train from London to Bearsted Station – in summer, there is a shuttle from the station to the castle, while at other times you’ll need to get a taxi.

You can also get the Nuventure no. 13 or Avura no. 13 bus from Maidstone. Or, another great option is to combine your visit with a tour of nearby Dover and Canterbury castles as well.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, Near London

Windsor really is the castle to end all castles. It’s the world’s oldest, and largest inhabited castle – and, of course, was once the weekender of Queen Liz herself.

Visiting Windsor Castle allows you to take a peek into over 900 years of royal life, from William the Conqueror, who originally founded the site with the intention of controlling the western entrance to London, to the current young royals.

Plus, a visit really is the best way to appreciate the mammoth scale of both the castle – considered the pinnacle of Georgian architecture – and the grounds.

An adult ticket to the castle is £28 and can be purchased online.

How to get to Windsor Castle: It is easy to get to Windsor Castle from London. The most direct way is to get a train from Paddington to Windsor, but you can also go from Waterloo.

Hadleigh Castle

Hadleigh Castle won’t give you the grand crenelations and sturdy walls you might be wanting from your castle day trip, but what it doesn’t provide there it more than makes up for in windswept, haunting decrepitude. 

That’s because all that remains now is the ruin of a tower and a few walls here and there. The castle was once one of the most important during the reign of Henry III, used to extract wealth from the people of Essex and defend against potential French attacks. 

Part of the charm of this crumbling ruin is that you don’t have to pay to get in, entry is entirely free. 

How to get there: You can take a train from Stratford International to Rayleigh and from there to Old Oak where you’ll find the ruins of Hadleigh Castle a short walk away. 

Hastings Castle

Hastings Castle

The ruins of the once-grand Hastings Castle are particularly beautiful thanks to their coastal location in charming East Sussex.

In fact, Hastings Castle was the first castle ordered to be constructed by William the Conqueror after the Norman Conquest of 1066. That castle was wooden, and eventually fell into the sea – sensibly, it was rebuilt in stone.

Over the years, the castle was battered by the weather and by armies, including during World War II when it took the brunt of German bombing runs aimed at the nearby town. Today, it is largely ruined, but still has hints of its former grandeur.

The castle is open between April and October, and the entry price of £6.25 includes entry to the keep, the dungeon and the showing of a short film.

How to get to Hastings Castle: You can get the Southern or Southeastern train from London to Hastings, which takes just under two hours. They run frequently from London St Pancras and London Bridge stations.

Dover Castle

Dover Castle

When it comes to impressive settings for a castle, it doesn’t get much better than Dover Castle . Perched on top of the famed White Cliffs of Dover, it’s pretty spectacular.

When it was built in the 11th century, it wasn’t chosen for the views, but for the tactical significance of the coast. Dover Castle was known as the “key to England” as it was of such strategic importance.

Today, you can explore the Great Tower or even learn about the modern history of the Secret Wartime Tunnels tucked away into the cliffside – lowkey our favourite part of a trip to this historic site.

The castle is managed by English Heritage, so members get free admission. For others, the entry price is £29.

You can also combine a visit with nearby Leeds and Canterbury Castles.

How to get to Dover Castle: It’s easy to get to the castle by public transport as long as you don’t mind a little bit of a walk. The closest station is Dover Priory, which is about 25 minutes on foot away from the castle. 

You can also get a taxi if you prefer. There are frequent South Eastern trains from St Pancras or London Victoria.

Broughton Castle

Broughton Castle bridges the gap between a country house and an impressive castle nicely. That’s in part thanks to a trend among the aristocracy of old to dress their manor houses up in fortifications to make them look more impressive. 

The grounds have been added to over the years but the gatehouse at Broughton Castle dates back to the 1200s and much of the history of this place is tied up with the English Civil War, where it served as a meeting place before the battle of Edgehill. 

Entry for adults is £11 and children aged 5 – 15, £7. 

How to get there: This castle is probably best reached by car. It’s just over a two-hour drive from central London. Alternatively, you can take a train from Marylebone Station to Banbury and then hop on the 75 bus which takes about the same time.

Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle is one of the most impressive castles you can find close to London. It was built in 1067 by the Earl of Arundel, the first person to be given a title by William the Conqueror.

The Castle was significantly damaged during the English Civil Wars but has been painstakingly restored to be one of the best examples of a Mediaeval castle. Parts of the castle, including the keep, are part of the original structure.

The surrounding village of Arundel is also incredibly fairytale-like, making the entire scene like something out of a film set. Likewise, the interior of the castle boasts some finely preserved interiors – a glimpse into the life of English Nobility throughout the ages. 

The castle is open from Tuesday to Friday, from April to early November each year. Tickets range from £19 to £26 depending on how many rooms you wish to see.

How to get to Arundel Castle: The Castle is located in West Sussex. There are frequent trains from London Bridge to the town of Arundel, where it is a short and picturesque walk.

Tonbridge Castle

Tonbridge Castle

Tonbridge Castle is most famously associated with the de Clare family, English nobility who rebelled against the King in 1088.

The castle was besieged, and the family eventually surrounded – however they would eventually rise to be the most powerful family in the UK at one stage.

Eventually the costs of keeping up such a sprawling property became too much. By the 16th century, the castle was deserted. In 1793, a large mansion was built adjoining the castle, and life returned to Tonbridge.

Today, the castle is owned by the council and welcomes visitors to come and see what aristocratic life was like in England. There are also lots of walking trails in the gorgeous grounds.

Tonbridge Castle is open daily, and an adult ticket is £9.90.

How to get to Tonbridge Castle: It’s easy to get to the castle by train, as Tonbridge Station (serviced regularly by Southeastern Trains from Charing Cross or London Bridge) is a ten-minute walk away.

Scotney Castle

Scotney Castle

It may not be the largest castle on this list, but the 14th-century Scotney Castle in Kent is surely one of the most picturesque and romantic castles you can find within a short journey from London.

Technically, it’s a country house rather than a castle (castles are fortified, country houses are pretty), but it is nonetheless known as Scotney Castle.

With woodland on one side and a small lake on the other, it’s incredibly beautiful. This is especially the case in spring when the castle walls become covered in colourful blooms.

The castle is managed by the National Trust, meaning members can visit for free. For others, the cost is £15 (£16.50 with gift aid).

How to get to Scotney Castle: Getting to the castle is a bit tricky without your own vehicle. The closest train station is Wadhurst, 5.5 miles away, so you’ll need to get a taxi from the station.

Guildford Castle

Guildford Castle

Yet another castle that can trace its links back to the Norman Conquest of 1066 is Guildford Castle .

Due to a lack of records, it is not clear exactly when or by who the castle was built, but historians are pretty sure it was shortly after the Norman Conquest. That’s because we know that William the Conqueror built castles at strategic points all over England.

Guildford was one of these, chosen as it was a convenient stop between the capital and the southeast coast.

Later, it served as the county prison for Sussex and Surrey, and was also a residence for some time.

Today, the castle is open to the public from March to October. The entry fee is £3.90, or you can visit the beautiful grounds for free.

How to get to Guildford Castle: There are frequent trains from London Waterloo to Guildford. The castle is within walking distance of the station.

Oxford Castle

For a castle that’s steeped in over 1000 years of history, take a trip to Oxford Castle and Prison and delve deeper into the dark history of this charming British city.

This really is one of the quirkiest castles you can find near London. Feeling brave? You can even take part in a murder mystery evening here (it’s said to be pretty haunted !) or get involved in an escape room to test your wits.

Adult tickets cost £15.50 and kids get in for less than a tenner, though it’ll cost you extra if you want to get involved in any of the activities – there’s also a great cafe serving up delicious treats in the castle courtyard that we highly recommend.

How to get to Oxford Castle: The easiest way to get to Oxford Castle is to hop on a direct train from Paddington to Oxford. After, it’s a ten-minute walk to the castle. If you want to drive, it’ll take about 90 minutes to reach Oxford.

Warwick Castle

For a fun family day out, you just can’t beat Warwick Castle – it’s one of the best in the UK.

You’ve got the historical bit: the 1100 years of history, the pretty grounds, and the falconry shows. But you’ve also got heaps of fun activities to get involved with – the Horrible Histories maze and the iconic Warwick Dungeons are particular highlights. 

You can even make a weekend getaway out of it – book yourself a tent in the Knights Village and get stuck in with a Mediaeval glamping experience that the whole family will enjoy.

If you can, we highly recommend going to their Halloween events held throughout October – it’s got all the creepiness of an old castle with the added fun of a live seance and the spooky House of Wax.

Book online for big savings on entry – adult tickets start at £21 but you’ll have to pay more for extra activities.

How to get to Warwick Castle: It might seem far, but in under two hours you can take a train from London Marylebone to Warwick. From there, it’s less than a ten-minute walk through the pretty town centre to the castle – you can’t miss it!

Wallingford Castle

Head to Wallingford and you’ll find the remains of a stunning castle overlooking the early reaches of the Thames.

This Oxfordshire castle dates back to the Mediaeval ages, and although lots of the stonework is now in ruins, it really is a gorgeous spot surrounded by flowers and greenery.

The history of this place is also very cool. It was, during the 12th and 13th centuries, regarded as the most powerful castle in England. And even though many tried, no one ever succeeded in defeating a defending force and taking Wallingford. 

The best part? Wallingford Castle and its pretty gardens are free to visit, so pack a picnic and head over for a day of exploration.

How to get to Wallingford Castle: The easiest way to get to the castle is by taking a train from Paddington to Reading, and then taking the X39 bus to the Market Place. From here it’s a short walk to the castle grounds. If you fancy driving, it’ll take around 1 hour 20 minutes.

Rockingham Castle

Rockingham Castle is easily one of the prettiest castles near the capital, with the flower-filled grounds that make it a highly popular wedding spot.

The castle has a long and interesting history. It was first ordered to be built by William the Conqueror but later gifted to Edward Watson by Henry VIII in 1544, in part because Henry was put off by how dilapidated it was. Since then, the castle has been visited by plenty of royalty and Charles Dickens even used to perform his plays here.

The Norman castle often hosts a number of events including a food and drink fair, outdoor cinema dates, and Tudor history days, so keep an eye out for this on their website. 

Regular tickets cost £13.50, and kids can get in for £8.50 – though you can just visit the garden for a reduced rate.

How to get to Rockingham Castle: Located in Northamptonshire, it’s a pain to get to on public transport – but well worth a visit if you’ve got a car and fancy making the two-hour journey from London.

Colchester Castle

Colchester Castle is a beautiful Norman castle and museum which tells the story of the Roman and Norman Conquest of Britain. If you’re after an educational day out (alongside some picturesque views) this is the spot for you.

There’s plenty to do here – take a stroll through the grounds, picnic in the gardens, or head inside for a tour to learn more about the history of the place. 

For a teaser of that history, know that Colchester Castle was built on the site of a temple to Emperor Claudius that dates all the way back to AD49 making this site nearly 2000 years old. 

Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £6.95 for children, although they have some bundle options that are well worth it if there’s a small group of you.

How to get to Colchester Castle: The easiest way to get here is to take a train from Liverpool Street Station to Colchester, then taking a short walk to the castle.

Castles in London

Tower of london.

Tower of London

While it is today one of London’s most famous and popular attractions, the Tower of London certainly didn’t begin life that way.

In fact, when this London castle was built by William the Conqueror in 1078, resentful Londoners saw it as a symbol of his oppressive, well, conquering. They were not impressed.

Since then, the tower has had stints as everything from a royal residence to a menagerie. However, it was perhaps its centuries-long time as a prison that is the most well-known.

Some of the famous inmates who were “sent to the Tower” include Henry VIII’s wife Anne Boleyn and subsequently her daughter, Elizabeth I (later Queen Elizabeth). More recently, the infamous gangster twins Reggie and Ronnie Kray were two of the last prisoners in the Tower of London.

Then, of course, there’s the fact that it’s home to the mind-bogglingly valuable Crown Jewels and home to one of the oldest continuous ceremonies in the world . 

With such varied history, it’s no wonder it’s such an iconic London attraction.

You can visit the Tower of London and Crown Jewels exhibition £33.60 and tickets can be booked online.  

How to get to the Tower of London: Its central location makes it a breeze to get to on the Central Line – it’s just a five-minute walk from the Tower Hill station.

Read Next: London Sightseeing Spots You Shouldn’t Miss

Severndroog Castle

Severndroog Castle

To learn about the quintessentially British idea of a “folly”, we highly recommend a trip to Severndroog Castle near Greenwich.

For those not in the know, a folly is an elaborate and ornate building that has no real purpose except to look interesting. As you do, when you’re English aristocracy and the family coffers are overflowing.

Severndroog Castle is one such building, having been constructed in 1784. It was built mostly as a memorial to Sir William James, who commanded over a decisive English victory in Suvarnadurg, India.

By the late 20th century, however, the castle had fallen nearly into disrepair. A large grant and the enthusiasm of a group of local volunteers ensured it was saved and opened to the public in the early 2000s.

The castle is open Thursday to Sunday, and entry to both the castle and the surrounding woods (as well as a volunteer-led tour) is just £4 for an adult.

How to get to Severndroog Castle: The easiest way to get to the castle is to take the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich, where you can get the 486 bus which will drop you right near the entrance.

Read Next: Quirky Places to See in London

Castles Near London: A Handy Map

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UK Travel Planning

7 Magnificent Castles near London you must visit (+ map & tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2023

Day trips from London 7 castles to visit

Do you want to explore an English castle? In this article discover 7 of the most magnificent English castles near London plus tips to help plan your visit.

With so many magnificent castles to visit in the UK the hardest decision can be deciding which one to visit? In this article, you will discover 7 of the best castles near London.

Each of these English castles is within easy reach of the capital either by train, car, or tour. I have included information about how to get to the castle from London using each of these methods.

Many of the castles belong to English Heritage . If you are visiting from outside the UK it may be cost-effective to purchase an overseas visitors pass if you are planning to visit a number of English Heritage Properties. Click here to find out more about the pass.

Are you are looking for inspiration for day trips from London? Our guide to the 17 best day trips to take from London has all the practical information and tips you need to choose and plan your day.

If you would like to engage the services of a private driver guide for tours of South East England (with tour options including Hever Castle, Leeds Castle, and Dover Castle) we recommend John England Tours . John is a professional tour guide who provides personalised private day tours and will ensure you have a memorable day experiencing an authentic England that many visitors miss. Click here for more information about John England Tours.

Dover Castle

Arundel castle, highclere castle, windsor castle, leeds castle, hever castle, warwick castle, enjoy your visit to these english castles near london, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

UK AND LONDON TRAVEL PLANNING

7 best castles near London to add to your itinerary

The first castle you visit from your list of castle day trips from London should unquestionably be Dover Castle. Nicknamed the “Key to England”, Dover Castle has served as the gateway to the English realm for over nine centuries. The history of the castle’s location, however, goes back even further — at least 2,000 years.

Today, it is the largest unoccupied castle in the UK and is a towering symbol of English strength from its perch overlooking the English Channel. It is 90 minutes from London but a mere 21 miles from France, underscoring the castle’s strategic location.

William the Conqueror began construction of the castle shortly after his successful invasion in 1066. In the 1180s, Henry II added outer walls and a keep to the castle. Over the years, the castle evolved and expanded to meet the changing needs of tactics and warfare. Visitors will delight in the drama of its high towers, rugged stone walls and sweeping views.

Make sure to see the Roman lighthouse on the grounds, one of the oldest landmarks on the property. In the castle itself, don’t miss climbing to the Great Tower, where royalty once received dignitaries and conducted diplomacy and political intrigue.

If you dare, take a tour of the dungeons and imagine all of the souls who once lingered there. Don’t forget about the tunnels snaking below the castle walls. There are eerie medieval passages as well as more modern tunnels built to protect the castle during the Napoleonic Wars. During WWII, these spaces were turned into air raid shelters and underground command centres.

When visiting Dover Castle, make sure you’re adequately prepared for a lot of walking and stair climbing. There is ample outdoor space to explore around the castle but beware — it can get very windy up on those cliffs, so maybe save the fussy up-do for another day.

Member of English Heritage? Yes – click here to join

How to get to Dover Castle from London

By train – From London St Pancras International or London Victoria to Dover Priory train station. 26-minute walk to the castle.

By road – 1 hour 35 minutes via M2 and A2 (76 miles)

By tour – From London take a day tour which includes Dover Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and the White Cliffs of Dover

Dover Castle

In West Sussex, 65 miles south of London, is Arundel Castle, one of the more awe-inspiring castles close to London. For the last 850 years, it has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors. It was built at the top of a manmade hill by the Earl of Arundel — Roger de Montgomery — in 1068.

The castle is known for its round towers, gothic windows and sweeping views of the South Downs and River Arun. In the late 19th century, the castle was converted into a country home, which is difficult to imagine when you visit and see its epic scale. The owners modernized the castle and made it one of the first to have electricity and central heating.

Today, the castle is open to visitors who will enjoy exploring the well-tended formal gardens as well as the greenhouses and vegetable patches. Inside, they’ll find works of art and extravagant furnishings. There’s also a collection of armour and some of the personal possessions of Mary Queen of Scots.

Don’t miss the oldest part of the castle, the ancient motte and keep. It’s a circular fortress atop a 100-foot-high artificial mound and was the strongest point in the castle.

You can climb up the steps and imagine what it must have been like all those years ago watching for invaders intent on your destruction. The views of the countryside from atop the keep are simply breathtaking.

On the western side of the grounds, visit the 14th century Fitzalan Chapel, a lovely example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. As with most medieval castles near London, visitors should plan to pre-book their tickets and make sure to check the website for any special events like combat demonstrations or historical talks.

Parking is a short walk away but if there are any members of your party with mobility issues, they will provide a golf cart to take them to the gardens.

Member of English Heritage? No

How to get to Arundel Castle from London

By train – London Victoria to Arundel. 18-minute walk to the castle.

By road – 1 hour 35 mins from London via A3 and A283 (65 miles)

By tour – Take your own chauffeur-driven limousine to Arundel Castle and Brighton on this luxury tour option.

Arundel Castle

Highclere Castle will of course be familiar to fans of the period drama Downton Abbey. Tours of Highclere include many of the rooms familiar from Downton Abbey which is perfect for lovers of this popular British TV show.

Home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon the estate dates back to 749 The castle as we see it today was created in 1842 by Sir Charles Berry (who also designed the Houses of Parliament )

Highclere Castle is also famous as the former residence of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon. Those with an interest in Egyptian history will immediately recognise his connection with the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun. Tours of Highclere include time to explore the Egyptian Exhibition which features a reproduction of Tutankhamun’s magnificent sarcophagus.

Highclere Castle is the venue for many tours and events throughout the year including their popular ‘Real lives and Film Sets Guided Tour’

If you wish to visit Highclere Castle it is important to book tickets as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

Read more – Complete guide to visiting Highclere Castle

How to get to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) from London

By train – 50 minutes from London Paddington to Newbury station (5 miles from the castle) Take a taxi from the station (£15 – £20 one way)

By road – 1 hour 26 minutes via M3 (62 miles)

By tour – Take a Downton Abbey and Village Small-Group Tour from London

Highclere Castle as seen in Downton Abbey is a popular castle near London for tourists

If you see only one castle while you are in the UK, it should probably be Windsor Castle near London. It’s not only the Queen’s second home after Buckingham Palace , but it’s a museum of English history and culture that is not to be missed.

Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has seen 900 years of history and has been the home to over 39 monarchs. It is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Plan to spend at least several hours during your visit — the place is huge!

The castle sits on 13 acres and has magnificent grounds, stunning architecture and immaculately manicured gardens. Visitors will be treated to a tour of the state apartments which are used by the Queen and Royal Family to receive everyone from local dignitaries and heads of state to everyday men and women being honoured. The staterooms are extravagantly decorated and contain seemingly endless historical treasures.

The royal art collection housed in Windsor Castle is second to none, as is Queen Mary’s Doll House. An amazing study of life in Edwardian England, it’s made to a precise 1:12 scale and has running water, electric lights, original art and literature created specifically for the dollhouse by the age’s most celebrated personalities.

Don’t forget to visit St. George’s Chapel—it’s a glorious gothic cathedral. Take it all in when you’re there — photography inside is forbidden. The chapel is open every day except Sunday.

No visit to Windsor Castle would be complete without watching the changing of the guards. During April through July, the changing of the guards happens at precisely 11:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday. August through March, it is every other day, so you may want to check online before you visit to make sure you don’t miss it.

A visit to Wndsor Castle is one of our top day trips to take by train from London .

Read more – Complete guide to visiting Windsor Castle

How to get to Windsor Castle from London

By train – London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (55 minutes)

By road – 46 minutes via M4 (23 miles)

By tour – If you prefer to take an escorted tour this half-day tour by coach from London is a great option.

Windsor Castle home to the Queen is one of the most popular castles near London for visitors

Don’t worry, you don’t have to travel all the way to the northern part of England to visit Leeds Castle. It’s really just an hour south of London, near Maidstone in Kent.

Of all the castles around London, Leeds Castle is the most rural. It is named after the small village of Leeds and is set on two islands in a lake formed by the River Len. Its rural location adds to its picturesque quality —no wonder it’s considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in the UK.

It was built by the Normans and eventually became a royal castle beginning in the 13th century. Eventually, Henry VIII took it on as a remodelling project when he needed a residence for his new wife, Catherine of Aragon. Later, it went on to become a Jacobean country house and even later it became a Georgian mansion.

Leeds Castle was handed down through various generations until the death of the last owner, the Hon. Olive, Lady Baillie. In 1974, the castle and 500 hundred acres of land were bequeathed to the nation. Today, it is a popular tourist site known for its history and romantic beauty.

There are plenty of guides on site who are knowledgeable and friendly and will happily answer questions about the history of the property.

One of the most popular features of this castle is the maze. Fun for all ages, the maze is made up of over 2,400 tightly packed yew trees formed into a large square. Navigate the twists and turns until you find the surprise at the centre. Spoiler alert! It’s a passage to descend into the earth and exit through a mysterious underground grotto.

The grounds are lovely and include a children’s play area as well as a birds of prey exhibit that everyone will enjoy.

How to get to Leeds Castle from London

By train – London Victoria to Hollingbourne (2 miles from Leeds Castle)

By car – 1 hour via M20 (40 miles)

By tour – Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover are included in this full-day tour from London.

Leeds Castle

Hever Castle can be found in the village of Hever, in Kent, 30 miles south east of London.

It’s unlike the other, more formidable castles outside of London in that Hever Castle began life as a 13th-century country house — albeit one with a gatehouse and walled bailey.

Over the years, the dwelling expanded, adding the moat, the Great Hall and the towers. Eventually, it became the seat for England’s famous Boleyn family. Young Anne Boleyn grew up there, long before she became the unfortunate second wife of Henry VIII and mother to Queen Elizabeth I.

A few years after Henry had Anne Boleyn arrested for treason and subsequently dispatched, his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, took possession of Hever Castle and owned it up until her death.

Since then, it has been passed down through 37 owners from 13 different families. In 1903, William Waldorf Astor bought the property and spent five years restoring the interior and the grounds.

Today’s visitors will be treated not only to an impressive castle but will enjoy the gorgeous 125-acre property that boasts a lovely lake, tranquil gardens and an array of charming topiary.

There’s also a double moat, which is rare among medieval castles. The walk up to the castle’s vine-covered entrance across the drawbridge is stunning, as the is rather intimidating portcullis.

Inside the castle are plenty of historical artefacts relating to the Tudors, as well as to the entire 700-year history of the castle. Bring the kids because they’ll enjoy interacting with the staff, many of whom are dressed in period costumes.

Some of the castles near London to visit welcome picnickers and Hever Castle is no exception. Pack a lunch and plan to spend the day enjoying the lovely rural setting. The castle is open daily but check online for any scheduling changes.

How to get to Hever Castle from London

By train – London Victoria or London Bridge to Edenbridge Town. Taxi for 3 miles to castle.

By road – 1 hour via A2 and M25 (39 miles)

Hever Castle is a magnificent castle near London to add into your itinerary

One of the most family-friendly castles to visit near London is Warwick Castle. It has a long and colourful history that is presented in an appealing way using a variety of actors in period costumes.

In 1068, soon after his successful invasion of England, William the Conqueror ordered Warwick Castle’s construction in the small country town of Warwickshire. A rather primitive wooden motte-and-bailey structure was erected but later, during the Hundred Years War, the castle was expanded and refortified with stone.

Today, Warwick Castle is one of the best castles to visit near London because its façade is a perfect example of 14th-century military architecture. It simply looks like a quintessential castle.

It’s amazingly well preserved and offers a wide variety of attractions that are perfect for a family day of historical fun. There is a birds of prey show called Falconer’s Quest that features expert training and aerobatic demonstrations using many of their 60 magnificent birds. When that’s done, wander along the grounds and you may see bowmen demonstrating their remarkable archery skills.

Also, for those who enjoy medieval weaponry, don’t miss the perfect replica of a medieval trebuchet. It’s huge and if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to witness them launching it, which is really something to see.

Inside the castle itself, you can visit the Great Hall and staterooms which have been historically recreated in painstaking detail.

Warwick Castle is less than a two-hour drive from London but well worth the trip. The castle is situated on a scenic bend of the River Avon and the gorgeous countryside and grounds make going there feels like a true getaway.

Make sure to book your tickets well in advance and check the website for any additional events like medieval banquets or drive-in cinema days.

Member of English Heritage? Yes (50% discount for members) Click here to join.

How to get to Warwick Castle from London

By train – London Marylebone to Warwick Station takes 1 hour 45 minutes

By road – 2 hours via M40

By tour – Combine Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon, Cotswolds, and a visit to Warwick Castle on this full-day tour from London

Warwick Castle one of the best castles near London to visit in the UK

With so many castles to visit in the UK (an incredible 300 medieval castles remain in England alone!) these 7 will give you a taste of the best to see near London.

There are many other beautiful castles in England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland to include in your itinerary and my regional guides detail some of the best.

If you want to spend a night or two in a castle there are many options to choose from in the UK including

  • Top 5 castle hotels in Wales
  • 8 Fairytale castle hotels in Scotland
  • 18 Beautiful Castles to visit in Scotland

Are you planning a trip to the UK? Check out my UK travel planning guide with essential resources to help you plan your perfect trip.

London Travel Guide and itinerary planner.

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9 Castles Near London That You Can See During a Day Trip

From the Royal Family's home in Windsor to ancient fortresses with historic moats, these castles are all a short journey from London.

visit castle near london

When people think of castles, they often imagine far-flung palaces surrounded by endless acres of land in remote corners of the world. And while many castles are set on massive plots, plenty of others are located near bustling cities like London.

In fact, you don't even have to leave London to visit one, as the British capital is home to two major working palaces as well as the legendary Tower of London , a medieval fortress complex that's home to a castle, a prison, and several other buildings dating back to the Middle Ages (where you can also view the Crown Jewels). Catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace , where the Royal Family lives and works. Nearby, Kensington Palace and its majestic gardens are worth a visit. Tour the palace, where Queen Victoria was born in 1819, and pay your respects at the Princess Diana statue in The Sunken Gardens. If time allows, head 30 minutes southwest of London to see Hampton Court Palace , the former home of Henry VIII and a beautiful baroque palace built in 1514.

If you're willing to go farther, here's a look at nine castles you can easily visit on a day trip from London , all reachable by car, public train, bus, or via an organized tour.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Highclere Castle

With more than 200 rooms on over 1,000 acres of rolling land, Highclere Castle is a Victorian gem located about 90 minutes from London. Highclere Castle is known as the real Downton Abbey , as it was used as the on-screen home of the show's Crawley family. Visitors are able to see some of the 12 bedrooms on the first floor, plus the lavish library, saloon, drawing room, and smoking room, among other parts of the property. Highclere has been home to the Carnarvon family since 1679 when it was rebuilt as a castle from the site of the earlier house, which dated to 749.

Blenheim Palace

About an hour and a half from London, Blenheim Palace is a massive baroque masterpiece that served as the boyhood home of Sir Winston Churchill. It was built between 1705–1724 and gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, the storied palace — which remains in the Churchill family — is regarded as the finest example of Baroque architecture in Great Britain. An audio tour of the palace state rooms is available through the website. All tickets must be purchased in advance and visits are largely self-guided, though you can pay extra for several themed guided tours. Outside the palace, the Walled Garden, Formal Garden, and Marlborough Maze are a real treat.

Broughton Castle

Complete with a moat, Broughton Castle gives off major medieval vibes. The castle, about 80 miles from London, is built of local Hornton ironstone and was once a center of opposition to Charles I. While the house dates to 1306, most of what people tour today dates from the 1550s. Broughton was used as a filming location for "Jane Eyre" and "Shakespeare in Love." The castle, just a 90-minute drive from London, has remained in the same family since 1447 and its house, garden, and tearoom are open to the public.

Highgrove House

The long-time family residence of King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort, Highgrove House is about a two-hour drive from London. After the then-prince arrived in 1980, Highgrove saw a drastic transformation in the gardens, which now include a center for organic farming and are a haven for wildlife. While the house, a Georgian neoclassical beauty, is not open to the public, the gardens welcome thousands of people a year.

Windsor Castle

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Forty minutes west of London, Windsor Castle is home to the Royal Family and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the site has more than 900 years of history and has been home to 39 monarchs. The castle is open to guests throughout the year, and The Queen spent most of her private weekends there.

Leeds Castle

Two cool features of this castle: a moat and a maze. Just over an hour from London, Leeds Castle formerly served as a Norman stronghold during the 11th and 12th centuries, the private property of six medieval queens, as well as a palace for Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. The maze has 2,400 yew trees and is set in a square, yet has a circular pattern when viewed from the air, which adds to its difficulty. After reaching the center, exit the maze through an underground grotto, complete with mythical forms. Save on admission by purchasing your tickets at least two days ahead of time online — they're good for a year so you can come back and see more of the estate and grounds anytime.

Hever Castle

It's hard to imagine that this grand castle is a mere hour south of London. Hever Castle , with 700 years of history and a double moat, was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII and the mother of Elizabeth I. The original medieval castle was built in 1270, while the Tudor dwelling and walls were added in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The castle is set on 125 acres and is open daily.

Rochester Castle

Built starting in the 1080s to guard an important crossing on the River Medway, Rochester Castle consists of three floors above a basement, standing 113 feet high. In 1215, the site endured a siege by King John and was rebuilt by Henry III and Edward I. The castle endured three sieges in total and remained a fortress until the sixteenth century. Only 30 miles (or an hour's drive) from London, Rochester Castle is easy to tackle in half a day.

Arundel Castle

Mandy Haakenson/Travel + Leisure

Located about 65 miles (or 90 minutes) from London, Arundel Castle has almost 1,000 years of history, overlooks the River Arun, and sports immaculate gardens that are worthy of a visit alone. The oldest castle feature is the motte, an artificial mound constructed in 1068 that rises more than 100 feet above the dry moat. The castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for over 850 years. Pay a visit to the stunning castle and gardens in the spring, summer and autumn (they're closed seasonally during the winter) to visit the decorated state rooms, Regency Library, Drawing Room, and the Barons' Hall, as well as several medieval defense towers, the Keep, a 14th-century chapel, and several bedrooms and bathrooms designed in the Victorian and Edwardian styles.

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Exploring 21 Beautiful Castles Near London

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace. The best castles that are only a day trip from London. #travel #british #castles #england #uk #london London Castles | England Castles | UK Castles

Last Updated on 4 June, 2023

Step into a world of magic and grandeur as we embark on a journey to discover the best castles near London.

From breathtaking fortresses to picturesque palaces , these magnificent structures not only boast fascinating histories but also offer captivating experiences for visitors.

So, fasten your seatbelts and let’s set off on an adventure filled with medieval tales, architectural wonders, and a touch of royal allure.

visit castle near london

Best Castles Close To London

If you are looking for the perfect day trip from London then these are perfect. They are also close and far away enough that you can turn the visit into the perfect weekend escape from London . 

You can easily drive from London or take the train, coach or by way of a tour. You can easily find tours from London to many of the castles on Viator or GetYourGuide .

Highclere Castle: Unveiling the Real Downton Abbey

Get a glimpse into Aristocratic Splendor Highclere Castle, situated in the scenic Hampshire countryside, which holds an esteemed place in both history and popular culture. Recognize it from the captivating TV series “Downton Abbey”?

This is the very place where the drama unfolded. Just a stone’s throw away from London, Highclere Castle invites visitors to step into the lives of the Crawley family.

With its opulent interiors and breathtaking gardens, this aristocratic gem offers a perfect blend of elegance, drama, and intrigue. The castle’s beauty is worth the hour-and-a-half drive from London, where you’ll be greeted by its enchanting presence. You can book your tickets in advance here.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Dover Castle: Majestic Fortress and Cliffside Marvel 

Where History Echoes Through the Centuries Prepare to be awestruck by the imposing Dover Castle, perched atop the iconic White Cliffs of Dover.

As one of England’s most magnificent fortresses, it has stood steadfast for centuries, guarding the English coastline.

Discover the secrets hidden within its ancient walls, including the eerie underground tunnels that played a vital role in World War II.

Unparalleled views of the English Channel await those who venture to this extraordinary castle, just a two-hour drive from London. You can book tickets in advance here .

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Bodiam Castle: A Fairytale Come to Life 

A Storybook Setting of Moats and Turrets Nestled in the idyllic East Sussex countryside, Bodiam Castle enchants visitors with its picturesque appearance.

This 14th-century gem showcases a fairytale-like setting, complete with a moat, crenellated walls, and circular towers.

As you cross the drawbridge and step into the castle’s courtyard, a world of medieval splendor unfolds before your eyes.

Fun fact: Did you know that Bodiam Castle has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, including “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”? Immerse yourself in history and let your imagination run wild during the two-hour drive from London.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Blenheim Palace: A Baroque Masterpiece 

A Stately Abode of Grandeur Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

Situated in the charming Oxfordshire countryside, this monumental Baroque palace showcases jaw-dropping architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens.

Embark on a journey through time as you explore its opulent interiors and stroll through the magnificent grounds designed by the legendary Capability Brown.

A little over an hour’s drive from London, Blenheim Palace is an absolute must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. You can book your tickets in advance here .

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Warwick Castle: Step into the Middle Ages 

A Tapestry of Chivalry and Intrigue Embark on a journey to the heart of medieval times as you enter the majestic Warwick Castle.

Towering above the River Avon, this fortress transports you to an era of knights, jousting tournaments, and lavish banquets.

Brace yourself for immersive experiences that bring history to life, from traversing the castle’s formidable ramparts to exploring its interactive exhibitions.

A mere two-hour drive from London, Warwick Castle beckons with its fascinating tales of chivalry and intrigue. You can book tickets in advance here .

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Tonbridge Castle: Where History Meets Riverside Tranquility 

A Hidden Gem by the River Medway Discover a hidden gem nestled along the tranquil banks of the River Medway: Tonbridge Castle.

This well-preserved 13th-century castle boasts a commanding position, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Immerse yourself in the castle’s rich history as you explore its stone keep and walk along its formidable curtain walls.

With just an hour’s drive from London, Tonbridge Castle offers a peaceful retreat where you can escape the bustling city and delve into the past. 

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Broughton Castle: A Tale of Timeless Beauty 

Where Medieval Architecture Stands the Test of Time Venture into the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside and discover the enchanting Broughton Castle.

This stunning medieval manor, set amidst sprawling gardens and a tranquil moat, exudes an aura of timeless beauty.

With its rich tapestries, antique furniture, and atmospheric great hall, Broughton Castle immerses visitors in the grandeur of a bygone era.

Take a leisurely drive lasting just over an hour from London and lose yourself in the serenity of this hidden treasure.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Herstmonceux Castle: Where History Meets Astronomy 

A Celestial Connection Amidst Medieval Splendor Prepare for a unique experience at Herstmonceux Castle, where history intertwines with the mysteries of the universe.

Located in East Sussex, this magnificent castle houses the Royal Greenwich Observatory, making it a haven for astronomy enthusiasts.

Explore the castle’s elegant interiors, admire the beautiful gardens, and perhaps even attend a stargazing event on its grounds.

A drive of approximately two hours from London will transport you to a realm where the celestial and the historical converge.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Hastings Castle: Reliving the Battle of 1066 

The Echoes of an Epic Battle Delve into the pages of English history as you visit Hastings Castle, perched atop the rugged cliffs overlooking the sea.

It was here that the momentous Battle of Hastings took place in 1066, changing the course of England’s destiny. Walk in the footsteps of William the Conqueror and relive the events that unfolded during this significant clash.

Gaze upon the ruins that stand as a testament to the past and absorb the breathtaking coastal views. Plan a memorable day trip from London, and within a two-hour drive, you’ll find yourself amidst the echoes of an epic battle.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Clearwell Castle: Where Fairytales Come True 

A Romantic Retreat in the Forest Escape into a world of enchantment and romance as you discover Clearwell Castle, nestled amidst the lush forest of the Forest of Dean.

This fairytale-like castle, with its ivy-clad walls and majestic turrets, is a dream come true for couples seeking a truly magical wedding venue.

Wander through the castle’s elegant halls, adorned with chandeliers and intricate woodwork, and feel like royalty for a day.

The two-and-a-half-hour drive from London is a small price to pay for the experience of a lifetime.

visit castle near london

Oxford Castle: A Fusion of History and Academia 

Where Legends and Scholars Collide Enter the hallowed grounds of Oxford Castle, where legends and scholars converge in perfect harmony.

This magnificent Norman castle stands proudly in the heart of Oxford, surrounded by the city’s prestigious colleges.

Uncover the castle’s intriguing past as a prison and delve into its historic remains. Climb the Saxon St. George’s Tower for panoramic views of the city, and imagine the scholars of Oxford’s famous Bodleian Library studying just a stone’s throw away.

A short drive of just over an hour from London, Oxford Castle welcomes visitors into a world where history and academia intertwine. There are plenty of tours leaving from London to Oxford here as well as advance tickets of Oxford Castle.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Highgrove House: A Royal Retreat in the Cotswolds 

Royal Opulence in Nature’s Embrace Indulge in the splendor of Highgrove House, the private residence of HRH The Prince of Wales.

Tucked away in the breathtaking Cotswolds countryside , this grand estate showcases exquisite gardens bursting with floral beauty.

Take a guided tour of the gardens, marveling at their organic and sustainable design, or explore the impressive interiors of the house during selected dates.

While visits to the main residence are limited, the drive of approximately two hours from London offers a glimpse into the regal world of Highgrove House.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Scotney Castle: A Picturesque Ruin and Garden Delight 

Serenity Amidst Romantic Ruins Prepare to be captivated by the timeless charm of Scotney Castle, a captivating combination of a romantic ruin and stunning gardens.

Located in the bucolic county of Kent, this fairytale-like castle transports you to a bygone era. Explore the atmospheric ruins of the medieval castle, surrounded by a moat and embraced by nature’s beauty.

Wander through the enchanting gardens, bursting with colorful blooms, and lose yourself in the serenity of this hidden gem.

A leisurely drive of just over an hour and a half from London leads to a world of tranquility and enchantment.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Guildford Castle: A Towering Presence in Surrey 

A Towering Legacy in a Quaint Town Visit the historic town of Guildford and be greeted by the commanding presence of Guildford Castle.

Perched on a high mound, this Norman castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Climb to the top of the Great Tower and admire the picturesque landscape that unfolds before you.

Immerse yourself in Guildford’s rich heritage as you explore the castle’s grounds and learn about its fascinating past.

With a short drive of just under an hour from London, Guildford Castle is a delightful destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a charming day trip.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Rockingham Castle: A Medieval Marvel in Northamptonshire 

Where Medieval Splendor Meets Breathtaking Scenery Venture into the heart of Northamptonshire and discover the captivating Rockingham Castle.

With its stunning hilltop location and sweeping views of the Welland Valley, this medieval marvel is a sight to behold.

Wander through its historic rooms adorned with antique furnishings and admire the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness exciting events such as falconry displays and reenactments that bring the castle’s rich history to life.

A drive of just over two hours from London is all it takes to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Rockingham Castle.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Windsor Castle: The Iconic Royal Residence 

A Royal Abode Steeped in Tradition No exploration of castles near London would be complete without a visit to the iconic Windsor Castle.

As the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, it continues to serve as the official residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Marvel at the grandeur of the State Apartments, adorned with priceless works of art, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessentially British tradition.

Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and soak in the regal atmosphere that permeates every corner.

Just a short drive of approximately 40 minutes from London, Windsor Castle offers a royal experience like no other. Book tickets in advance here .

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Leeds Castle: The Gem of the Kent Countryside 

A Romantic Fortress Surrounded by Water Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of Leeds Castle, often referred to as the “Loveliest Castle in the World.”

Situated in the picturesque Kent countryside, this fairytale-like fortress rises majestically from its own moat, creating a truly magical setting.

Explore the opulent interiors, stroll through the stunning gardens, and take a tranquil boat ride on the castle’s serene lake.

With a drive of just over an hour from London, Leeds Castle promises a captivating escape filled with romance and history. You can book tickets in advance here .

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Colchester Castle: Unveiling Roman History 

Where Roman Legacy Comes Alive Step back in time to Roman Britain as you visit Colchester Castle, located in the historic town of Colchester, Essex.

This awe-inspiring Norman keep stands on the foundations of the Temple of Claudius, making it a unique fusion of Roman and medieval history.

Delve into the interactive exhibits that showcase the castle’s intriguing past, and climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the town.

A drive of approximately one hour and a half from London brings you face to face with the Roman legacy at Colchester Castle.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Hever Castle: An Idyllic Tudor Retreat 

Step into the World of Anne Boleyn Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Tudor history at Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn.

Located in the picturesque county of Kent, this enchanting castle showcases exquisite Tudor architecture and stunning gardens.

Explore the maze of rooms filled with antique furniture, tapestries, and Tudor portraits. Stroll through the award-winning gardens, complete with a picturesque lake and a rose garden that blooms in a riot of colors.

With just a little over an hour’s drive from London, Hever Castle offers a delightful escape into Tudor splendor.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Rochester Castle: A Fortress of Medieval Power 

Where History Takes a Towering Form Journey to the historic city of Rochester and discover the mighty Rochester Castle, a symbol of medieval strength and power.

Standing proudly atop a hill, this Norman castle boasts one of the tallest keeps in England. Explore its formidable walls, climb the stone staircase, and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Learn about the castle’s storied past, from its involvement in the struggles between King John and the barons to its role in the English Civil War.

A drive of just over an hour from London leads to a fascinating encounter with Rochester Castle’s rich history.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Arundel Castle: A Stately Fortress by the River Arun 

A Journey Through Centuries of Grandeur Prepare for a journey through centuries of grandeur as you visit Arundel Castle, situated in the charming town of Arundel, West Sussex .

This magnificent fortress, nestled on a hill overlooking the River Arun, boasts a rich history spanning nearly 1,000 years.

Marvel at its imposing towers, opulent staterooms, and extensive art collection that includes works by Van Dyck and Gainsborough.

Explore the meticulously maintained gardens, which provide a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls. A drive of approximately two hours from London transports you to a world of regal elegance at Arundel Castle.

Guide to the best castles near London. A look at 21 castles within a 1-3 hour train or drive from London. From Windsor to Highclere Castle and Blenheim Palace.

Map Of Castles Near London

The castles near London offer a captivating glimpse into history, transporting visitors to bygone eras of knights, royalty, and grandeur.

From the medieval fortresses like Warwick Castle and Dover Castle to the fairytale-like retreats of Clearwell Castle and Hever Castle, each castle has its own unique charm and story to tell.

Whether you’re seeking a day trip filled with adventure, a romantic escape, or an immersion into Tudor or Roman history, these castles provide an enriching and unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags, hop in the car, take the train or coach and embark on a journey through time to discover the best castles near London. Below is a map of each castle.

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My name is Bianca and welcome to my local guide of London's Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Everything you need to know about exploring London in addition to the coolest hangouts and Instagrammable spots.

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7 Most Remarkable Castles near London

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We all need some royalness in our lives and what better place to accomplish this than an English castle. Visitors to the British capital won’t have to go far to find this, since there are several castles near London that make great day trips. The castles present an amazing – and easy – way to learn about British history, the battles fought over them and palace intrigue. You’ll find 11th century castles that were built by William the Conqueror, another which was the childhood home of the doomed Anne Boleyn, and others where Henry VIII, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II slept. The history associated with these castles is absolutely fascinating.

7. Dover Castle [SEE MAP]

Dover Castle

Dover Castle, the largest castle in England, has been guarding the English Channel for centuries, earning it the nickname, “key of England.” William the Conqueror burned it when he invaded England in 1066. Located roughly 90 minutes from London, the castle complex is an impressive collection of buildings, moats and walls. The many tunnels beneath the castle were converted to air raid shelters and an underground hospital during World War II. On your tour, you can visit towers, pass through dungeons and walk staircases so narrow, you’ll wonder how medieval women with their big skirts managed. The castle has starred in many films from Doctor Who to The Other Boleyn Girl.

6. Arundel Castle [SEE MAP]

Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle, on the River Arun in West Sussex, has a history that dates back nearly 1,000 years. Built by the Earl of Arundel in 1068, ownership frequently passed down through the female line; it has been home to the dukes of Norfolk for 800 years. The castle was built on a man-made hill and surrounded by a moat. In the late 19th century, the picturesque castle was converted to a country home, being one of the first to have electricity, service lifts and central heating. Take time to wander through the carefully tended gardens that have been open to the public since 1854.

5. Highclere Castle [SEE MAP]

Highclere Castle

If you love Downton Abbey, you’ll love Highclere Castle as the series was filmed here. The site is ancient, being recorded in the Domesday Book, though the castle there now is not that old. Today Highclere is a Jacobean-style country home for the Earls of Carnarvon since the 17th century. You’ll need to plan ahead for a visit, as Highclere Castle is only open at select times. You’ll see magnificent gardens and woodlands, state rooms and an exhibition of Egyptian antiquities since an earlier earl was with Howard Crater when he discovered the tomb of King Tut.

4. Hever Castle [SEE MAP]

Hever Castle

Just an hour from London is Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and second wife of Henry VIII; the king later gave it to his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves. This 13th century castle is lavishly decorated with antique furniture and tapestries, and one of the best collections of Tudor portraits in England as well as two prayer books belonging to Anne Boleyn and a private lock her husband used when he stayed there. The castle, with its moat, reportedly is haunted, perhaps by victims who were tortured here. Outside the medieval castle, you’ll find mazes and gardens, ranging from herb to Italian-style.

3. Warwick Castle [SEE MAP]

Warwick Castle

William the Conqueror began building a castle on the River Avon in 1068, two years after he invaded England. It was turned into an imposing stone fortress in the 12th century. Over the next few centuries, this medieval castle would be strengthened many times, with ownership depending on inheritance and who was in the king’s favor. Its towers and ramparts teemed with intrigue and famous prisoners until the castle was turned into a country home in the 17th century. Today Warwick Castle is a theme park geared to medieval activities, such as gory dungeons and sword fights, so you can learn about this excising period in English history.

2. Leeds Castle [SEE MAP]

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is billed as the loveliest castle in the world. After seeing the 900-year-old castle with its lush greenery and challenging maze, it’s hard to argue with that nickname. Once a Norman stronghold and then owned by six medieval queens, Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, stayed here. The former royal residence is now a country home but with a twist: Most country homes don’t have towers and ramparts that are daunting as they reach to the sky. The rooms are lavishing furnished with antiques and other treasures, including a collection of antique dog collars.

1. Windsor Castle [SEE MAP]

Windsor Castle near London

In a quiet town filled with English history, Windsor Castle dominates the landscape. Built by William the Conqueror after he invaded England in 1066, the castle today is both a museum and a royal residence, currently used by Queen Elizabeth II as her official residence. It is the largest working castle in the world located very close to London. Top things to see are the State Rooms, with one of the rarest art collections in the world; the Gothic St. George’s Chapel, and Queen Mary’s Dolls House. The Changing of the Guards’ ceremony is another British tradition.

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20 Spectacular Castles Near London To Live Out Your Royal Fantasies

"Oh tell me why... do we build castles in the sky"... or, in and near London?

Samuel Hopkins

Well, DJ Sammy/Ian Van Dahl (pick your version), people build castles near London because they look bloody spectacular, and they make for an excellent day trip  too. It’s a chance to live like the kings and queens you are, whilst also learning a bit about medieval history and the various power struggles that have shaped our fair nation. And with the release of the latest (and final series) of The Crown , we figured that it was high time that we showed you where you could live out your Royal fantasies! So, without further ado, here are 20 of the best castles in London and castles near London we reckon you should be paying a visit to!

Table Of Contents

Castles in London

Castles near london.

There’s only one King in town, but if you fancied a lesser title for the day, head to one of these fine castles in London and maybe bestow yourself with a dukedom or something? Go on – why not treat yourself?

1. Tower of London

A picture of the Tower of London bathed in the sunshine, one of the best things to do in London

Like we could possibly overlook this one… One of the city’s oldest and most recognisable tourist attractions, the Tower of London has stood since William the Conqueror decided the capital needed a fortress to remind Londoners of his conquest. Nearly 1000 years later, it’s still standing, famously housing the Crown Jewels and a flock of ravens. A visit here might encompass a paid guided tour – or checking out the Ceremony of the Keys, which is free though you’ll need to check when it’s on.

Seasonal events such as their immersive theatre tour for LGBT+ History Month and their ‘Trailblazers: Woman at the Tower of London’   tour run at various points throughout the year – check their website for further details.

🏰 Built 1078

📍 London, EC3N 4AB.

🚇 Nearest station is Tower Hill. 

2. Severndroog Castle

The large turret of Severndroog Castle in Shooters Hill in South East London

OK, so it’s technically a folly rather than a castle, but this little delight is still impressive enough to snag a spot on our list. Severndroog Castle never hosted armies or repelled invaders, but on a clear day, you can see seven counties (and most of London) from the viewing platform on the top. Unless you’re beset by cloudy foes, of course…

🏰 Built 1784

📍 Severndroog Castle Castle Wood, Shooters Hill, London, SE18 3RT.

🚇 Nearest stations are Welling and Eltham. 

3. Strawberry Hill House & Gardens

The white exterior of the Strawberry Hill House & Garden in Twickenham, South West London

Again, not technically a castle, but it looks enchanting enough to get away with it – you certainly wouldn’t be complaining if you lived here, would you? Strawberry Hill House is the creation of Horace Walpole, who wanted a suitably swish pad alongside the Thames, complete with battlements, towers, and some extremely blingy interiors. 

🏰 Built 1747.

📍 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST. 

Escaping the hustle and bustle of the city offers a better chance of capturing a castle – and these castles near London range from country mansions to hilltop ruins. But – all of them are well worth a visit!

4. Highclere Castle

The spectacular Highclere Castle in Berkshire, one of the best castles near London

I’m sure you recognise this one, even if you’re not sure where from. Highclere Castle is, of course, more widely known as Downton Abbey , and thus makes for an absolute must-visit for fans of the show. However, should you remain clueless about what the Crawleys are up to, you’re advised to visit for sumptuous state rooms, sculpted gardens, and picnic concerts, amongst other events. 

🏰 Built 1679, remodelled 1842-49. 

📍 Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury, RG20 9RN.

🚇 Nearest station is Newbury, though we’d recommend driving as you’ll need to get a taxi otherwise. 

5. Windsor Castle

The mighty Windsor Castle in Windsor, one of the best castles near London

You’ll need a pretty convincing claim to dislodge the current tenant, so a day visit should suffice. The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been home to a whopping 40 monarchs, including our current King, Charles III. You can take guided walking tours of the state apartments, see St. George’s Chapel (where Harry and Meghan were married), and there’s the added benefit of the Legoland theme park being nearby, too. If you’re wanting to join a half-day walking tour, you can get your tickets here.

🏰 Built circa 1066.

📍 Windsor, West Berkshire, SL4 1NJ.

🚇  Nearest station is Windsor & Eton Riverside and Windsor & Eton Central.

6. Bodiam Castle

The fantastic, sunlit exterior of Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, one of the best castles near London

You’d ideally need a boat to conquer Bodiam Castle, which – save for a small causeway up to the main gate – is surrounded on all sides by water. It was built to repel the French during the Hundred Years War, but since they didn’t bother pitching up, the castle was left alone until the War of the Roses, when even that moat couldn’t prevent a quick surrender. The castle was mostly dismantled during the English Civil War, and has remained a picturesque ruin despite some restoration work.

🏰 Built 1385.

📍 Bodiam, Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA.

🚇  There are no stations near so you’ll need to drive to this one. 

7. Warwick Castle

The exterior wall of the mighty Warwick Castle, one of the best castles near London

All these castles near London are brilliant in their own right, but for me, Warwick Castle stands alone for one simple reason: they’ve got a goddamn, honest-to-God awesome trebuchet, which they routinely use to fling heavy objects for the delight of guests. This is, naturally, the only reason one needs a trebuchet in 2023, but still, you love to see it. Archery displays, falconry shows, and informative historical displays round off an excellent day out. They’ve even got a spooky dungeon here – be prepared to scream!

🏰 Built 1068.

📍Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 6AU.

🚇 Nearest station is Warwick. 

8. Hadlow Tower

The beautiful, sun-dappled tower of Hadlow Castle in Tonbridge, Kent

Your best chance to visit Hadlow Tower (the only remaining part of Hadlow Castle) came back in 2018, when it went on sale for a cool £2 million . Sadly, some lucky devil snapped it – and its drawing room, media room, top-floor master bedroom, and roof terrace – up, so your only chance to see it now is if you join one of their guided tours . 

🏰 Built 1838.

📍 Hadlow Castle, High St, Hadlow, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 0EG.

🚇 Nearest station is Tunbridge, though we’d recommend driving as you’ll need to get a taxi otherwise. 

9. Dover Castle

The mighty Dover Castle in Kent, one of the best castles near London

The largest castle in England, the Grade I-listed Dover Castle has stood guarding the English Channel since the days of William the Conqueror who, upon landing on green England’s shores, immediately fortified the castle to ensure that no-one followed him. It’s been described as ‘the key to England’, and has seen use in the Napoleonic Wars and World War 2, when it was used as a command centre and underground hospital. It also doubled as the spot for Anne Boleyn’s execution in The Other Boleyn Girl . Stirring stuff indeed.

🏰 Built 1066.

📍 Castle Hill Road Dover, CT16 1HU.

🚇  Nearest station is Dover Priory.

10. Hever Castle

The sunlit exterior of the spectacular Hever Castle & Gardens in Kent

There are plenty of reasons to love Hever Castle, beginning with that seriously impressive moat – a perfect defence against enemies of your queendom, or just annoying relatives. It’s also famous as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn (and later belonged to Anne of Cleves, one of Henry VIII’s more fortunate wives – she was only divorced), and now boasts lavish interiors, award-winning gardens, and a Japanese tea house. One of the south east’s better wild swimming spots  is nearby, too.

🏰 Built 1270.

📍 Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG.

🚇  Nearest station is Hever.

11. Hadleigh Castle

The panoramic views from Hadleigh Castle overlooking the Thames Estuary in Essex

The good news is that Hadleigh Castle is free to enter. The bad news is that’s because the place is in ruins, with the stonework mostly sold off in the sixteenth century. Still, it’s a rugged, romantic place for a wander, commanding some pretty neat views of the nearby Thames Estuary. English Heritage are in charge now, so you can tell that this one’s in good hands.

🏰 Built circa 1215.

📍 Castle Lane, Hadleigh, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 2AP.

🚇  Nearest station is Leigh-on-Sea.

12. Carisbrooke Castle

The gate of Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight

Carisbrooke Castle managed to imprison Charles I despite his best efforts to escape, but your stay will hopefully be a little more temporary. One of the best tourist attractions on the Isle of Wight, Carisbrooke Castle hosts no monarchs these days, but does maintain a herd of donkeys, who raise water using a sixteenth-century water wheel. A wander round the walls and a slice of cake in the tea room should ensure a peachy day trip.

🏰 Built circa 1100.

📍 Castle Hill, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1XY.

🚇  As this one is one the Isle of Wight, you’ll need to get here via car and ferry. 

13. Leeds Castle

The spectacular Leeds Castle in Maidstone, Kent

Stealing the title of ‘most confusingly-named castle near London’, the Grade I-listed Leeds Castle is nowhere near Leeds, Yorkshire . It is in fact in Kent, perched on the edge of a lake, and thus revels in the title of being ‘ the loveliest castle in the world ‘, bestowed by Lord Conway of Allington. Hard to argue with him, particularly since it boasts plentiful gardens, birds of prey, a maze, and a history which has seen it belong to no fewer than six queens of England.

🏰 Built in 1119.

📍 Broomfield, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL.

🚇  Nearest station is Harrietsham. 

14. Arundel Castle

The spectacular Arundel Castle in West Sussex, one of the best castles near London.

The whole town of Arundel is well worth a visit, especially if Sussex CCC are playing their annual cricket match on the castle’s cricket ground. Built in the eleventh century, and restored with Gothic flair in the late nineteenth, Arundel Castle now hosts medieval jousting, knights tournaments, and an annual tulip festival. The castle’s art collection – featuring works by Gainsborough, Van Dyck, and Canaletto – shouldn’t be overlooked either.

🏰 Founded in 1067 and then restored and remodelled. 

📍Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AB.

🚇 Nearest station is Arundel. 

15. Camber Castle

An aerial of the Camber Castle fortress close to the town of Rye

In between divorcing, beheading, and procreating, Henry VIII found time to commission the construction of Camber Castle, which was designed to protect the gorgeous Sussex town of Rye . The town itself cries out for a day trip, and even though Cromwell’s forces dismantled most of the castle during the English Civil War, it remains a pretty dramatic place for a wander.

🏰 Built in 1512.

📍 Harbour Road, Rye, TN36 4JS.

🚇  Nearest station is Rye. 

16. Rochester Castle

The turret of the mighty Rochester Castle in Kent

Guarding both the main road to London and the River Medway, Rochester Castle has been besieged by King John (who used pig fat to set part of it on fire, the wily fox), damaged by the forces of Simon de Montfort, and eventually ransacked during the Peasant’s Revolt. A hard life, indeed, although it’s been easier in recent years, having been open as public gardens since the 1870s. It also offers fantastic views over the River Medway.

🏰 Built in 1127. 

📍 Castle Hill, Rochester, ME1 1SW.

🚇  Nearest station is Rochester. 

17. Framlingham Castle

An aerial view of the beautiful Framlingham Castle in Suffolk

Two significant events have ensured Framlingham Castle’s place in history. In 1553, Mary Tudor assembled a mighty military force at the castle, ensuring her ascension to the throne of England in spite of her dying brother’s attempts to redraw the line of succession given that she was a Catholic. Plus, back in 2017, Framlingham Castle made an appearance as the ‘Castle on the Hill’ in Ed Sheeran’s namesake song, and subsequent got lodged in all of our heads for several months. Try not to sing it as you’re wandering around the walls…

🏰 Built circa 1160.

📍 Church Street, Framlingham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 9BP.

18. Hastings Castle

The ruined exterior of Hastings Castle in Hastings, one of the best castles near London

Having suffered at the hands of the French and the weather, Hastings Castle and Keep is now an impressive ruin. It’s a far cry from the castle’s heyday, when William the Conqueror claimed his famous victory at the Battle of Hastings, although it now features a 16-minute presentation about the history of the castle and battle.

🏰 Built in 1070.

📍 Castle Hill Road, Hastings, TN34 3HY.

🚇  Nearest station is Hastings. 

19. Donnington Castle

The turret-type gatehouse of Donnington Castle in Berkshire near Newbury with three red kites circling

Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Berkshire market town of Newbury lies Donnington Castle, which was first built as a military gatehouse during the late 14th century, and it now offers charming panoramic views of Newbury, Wash Common, Enbourne and the rolling green hills of Hampshire. It’s a lovely spot, and you can also wander down to the Kennet and Avon canal, where you may be able to spot wildlife including kingfishers, herons, red kites and buzzards.

🏰 Built in 1386.

📍Donnington Castle Farm Cottage, Castle Lane, Donnington, Newbury, West Berkshire, RG14 2LE.

🚇  Nearest station is Newbury. 

20. Herstmonceux Castle

The stunning moat and blue skies surrounding the imposing. Herstmonceux Castle in East Sussex

Rounding off this list of the best castles near London is Herstmonceux Castle, a brick-built castle, dating from the 15th century. It’s one of the oldest and most significant brick buildings still left in the UK, and is surrounded by a charming moat and 300 acres of carefully-managed woodland and beautiful garden. They’ve got falconry here, and it’s sometimes even used as a wedding venue! Queue the wedding bells…

🏰 Built in 1441. 

📍Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN

🚇 There are no stations near so you’ll need to drive to this one. 

So there you have it – a roundup of the best castles in London and castles near London. So if you’re looking to get your history fix or live like a lord or lady, then you know exactly where to head!

Also published on Medium .

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Europe , London , Travel , United Kingdom · March 29, 2021

17 Fairytale Castles Near London (+ how to get there!)

visit castle near london

It’s easy to forget when walking the bustling streets of London, with its Pret a Mangers on every corner, that the city and its surrounding area was once the playground of King and Queens. But it’s true! And it’s not hard to find the proof. Just beyond the city’s metaphorical walls are a host of incredible castles, brimming with secrets of years passed.

This blogpost counts down the very best castles and palaces in and around London, from the infamous to the hidden gems. Step into a fairytale world of princes and princesses, knights and battles, royals and peasants, and discover the epic history of the castles near London!

Top Tips for Visiting Castles : Many of these castles are owned by English Heritage. It might work out cheaper to get an English Heritage yearly membership than paying for each ticket individually Some castles have specific exhibits or ceremonies that require booking in advance, so always check the website! If you’re a student, you might be able to get a concession ticket with valid ID!

Looking for More London Inspiration? Check Out These Blogposts!

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Windsor Castle, royal castle near London

1. Windsor Castle

First up is Windsor Castle – probably the most famous castle in England. As one of the queen’s royal residences, it draws thousands of visitors to the picturesque town of Windsor each year. It’s the largest inhabited castle in the world and has plenty of history at around 900 years old.

Windsor Castle has its own Changing of the Guard ceremony (see the full timetable here) . You can also take a self-guided tour of the incredibly beautiful State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel (where Prince Harry and Megan Markle were married).

One particularly interesting artefact at Windsor Castle is Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House , the largest and most famous dolls’ house in the world. It includes a fully stocked wine cellar, running hot water, working lifts, and even a garden.

Important Information : Opening hours: 9:30am – 5:30pm Admission: £20 Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle

How to Get to Windsor Castle from London:

Distance from London: 23 miles, around 50 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch a direct South Western Railway train from London Waterloo station to Windsor Station. The journey will take you about 55 minutes.

Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor SL4 1NJ

Top Tips for Visiting :

  • Book your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues
  • Although the castle is open for most of the year, certain parts are only open seasonally e.g. the Round Tower is only open during the summer months, so bear this in mind when planning your trip!
  • Be at the castle for 11am to see the changing of the guard
  • Don’t take photographs in the State Apartments or St. George’s Chapel – it’s not allowed!

Highclere Castle near London, best known as the setting for Downton Abbey

2. Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle is a Grade I listed country house in Hampshire, best known for its part in Downton Abbey. Its grandeur, celeb status, and intriguing history has landed it a place on this ultimate list of castles near London. Much like in Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle was converted into a hospital for wounded soldiers during the First World War. Throughout the Second World War, it also housed evacuees from London.

It’s a must-visit , whether you’re a fan of the show or not. Visitors can see the opulent library, saloon, drawing room, and a number of the bedrooms – all decked to the nines.

Important Information : Highclere Castle isn’t open to the public year-round, so make sure to check online before you visit. It’s generally open during the summer months, Christmas, and Easter. Admission: £17 Website: https://www.highclerecastle.co.uk

How to Get to Highclere Castle from London:

Distance from London: 66 miles, around 1 hour 35 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: There’s a direct train from London Paddington Statin to Newbury that runs every hour or so. The best way to get from Newbury to Highclere is probably by taxi, although there is a bus service that runs infrequently between the two.

Address: Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury RG20 9RN

Leeds Castle in England with a moat

3. Leeds Castle

Despite the name, Leeds Castle is actually in nearby Kent. This Norman castle was used as a palace by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon. Its moat gives it a particular fairytale feel, making it the perfect whimsical escape from the big city.

There’s a number of things to see and do at the castle beyond its impressive walls, including the gardens, a maze, a bird of prey centre, and, bizarrely, a dog collar museum, which showcases 130 rare and valuable collars dating back to the 15th century.

Important Information: Admission: £28 Opening Times: 10am – 5pm  Website: https://www.leeds-castle.com

How to Get to Leeds Castle from London :

Distance from London: 68 miles, around 1 hour 15 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch a direct train from Victoria Station, London to Bearstead Station. The journey should take just over 1 hour.

Address: Leeds Castle, Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL

Rochester Castle in Kent

4. Rochester Castle

More of a crumbling fortress than an opulent palace, Rochester Castle is another offering from Kent. This Norman structure, with its imposing tower, is a piece of history that has survived the ages. Whilst it might not have the grandeur of some of the other castles on this list, it certainly delivers on transporting you back in time. It’s also one of the more affordable options on this list, as tickets are only £7.

Important Information: Admission: £7 or free for English Heritage members Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rochester-castle/

How to Get to Rochester Castle from London :

Distance from London: 32 miles, around 1 hour drive time

Using Public Transport: Board a direct train from London St Pancras Station to Rochester. The journey should take under 40 minutes.

Address: Rochester Castle, Castle Hill, Rochester ME1 1SW

Top Tips for Visiting Rochester Castle:

  • Wrap up warm – it’s a medieval castle, so don’t expect it to be cosy!
  • Consider purchasing an English Heritage Membership , if you’re planning on visiting other locations owned by them!

The Tower of London with the British flag flying

5. Tower of London

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that you don’t even have to leave London to find some pretty incredible castles – one being the infamous Tower of London. This castle has particular historical significance. During the Tudor era, the tower walls were used as a prison for those awaiting execution, including well-known historical figures such as Anne Boleyn, and Guy Fawkes.

Because of its rich history, there’s also lots to see and do here. Nowadays the Tower is used to house the Crown Jewels , which can be viewed at the exhibition.

Important Information: Admission: £25 Website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

Best Things to Do at the Tower of London:

  • Meet the ravens of the Tower
  • Explore the Bloody Tower
  • See the Crown Jewels
  • See the White Tower
  • Uncover the armour of Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II
  • Walk the battlements
  • Learn about imprisonment in the tower
  • Watch the Ceremony of the Keys

Ceremony of the Keys

Each night, the Tower of London is locked up in a formal ceremony. For centuries, the exact same exchange has taken place. Why not experience the pageantry of this age-old tradition by visiting the Tower for the ceremony of the keys?

There are limited spaces so tickets must be pre-booked online. Spaces can fill up quickly, so make sure to book well in advance, as it’s not possible to get tickets on the day.

Make sure to arrive before 21:30, as late arrivals won’t be admitted.

How to Get to the Tower of London :

Closest Tube Station: Tower Hill

Close-by Tube Stations: Aldgate, Aldgate East, Tower Gateway, Monument, Bank, London Bridge, Fenchurch Street

Bus Routes: 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1

Address: Tower of London, St Katharine’s & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB

Hever Castle in Kent, with ivy climbing up the walls

6. Hever Castle

Hever Castle is yet another impressive property that can be found in nearby Kent. It’s most famous for being the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife, but was also passed on to Anne of Cleves, his fourth wife. The building’s connection to popular history certainly makes it a fascinating place to visit.

The castle itself is beautiful with ivy clambering its old stone walls. Inside you’ll find plenty of antique furniture, Tudor paintings, and, perhaps most interestingly, Anne Boleyn’s prayer books . Hever also has some stunning grounds, gardens, and a lake that are definitely worth exploring.

How to Get to Hever Castle from London:

Distance from London: 30 miles, around 1 hour 30 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Get a direct train from London Victoria or London Bridge Station to Edenbridge Town Station, and take a taxi the final 3 miles to the castle. Alternatively you can get off at Hever Station and walk the one mile to the castle.

Address: Hever Castle, Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG

visit castle near london

7. Framlingham Castle

This impressive late 12th century castle can be found in Suffolk, less than two hours drive from London. It’s an excellently well-preserved Medieval castle with the oldest surviving Tudor chimneys in the country, and is another castle on this list that has its own moat.

Framlingham Castle was famously passed on to Henry VIII’s daughter, Mary Tudor, in 1552. After the death of her brother, the king, Mary fled here to prepare her troops before returning to London to claim her spot on the throne.

Nowadays you can visit the Castle’s beautiful grounds and walk the walls. Framlingham is a picturesque old town, so make sure to stop in one of the many pubs for a traditional pub lunch, or alternatively you can grab some food at the castle’s cafe.

Important Information Admission: £12.50 Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/framlingham-castle/

How to Get Framlingham Castle from London:

Distance from London: 100 miles, around 2 hours drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch a direct train from London Liverpool Street Station to Ipswich. Once you arrive, hop on the 118 bus to Framlingham.

Address: Framlingham Castle, Church St, Framlingham, Woodbridge IP13 9BP

Bodiam Castle, a medieval castle in Sussex surrounded by a moat

8. Bodiam Castle

This moated castle in Sussex is just under 2 hours drive from London. Set in the beautiful countryside, Bodiam has plenty of battlements and spiral staircases to explore, and remains one of the country’s most well preserved 14th century castles.

Bodiam Castle was almost demolished but was saved by an MP called John ‘Mad Jack’ Fuller , who purchased it at auction. Fuller was an anti-abolitionist and inherited a large amount of money from slavery in Jamaica.

Top Tips for Visiting Bodiam Castle: Consider purchasing a National Trust Membership. Entrance to Bodiam Castle costs £5 but National Trust members go free. Membership only costs £36, if you’re 18-25, so it may work out cheaper in the long run to become a member! Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

How to Get to Bodiam Castle From London:

Distance from London: 62 miles, around 1.5 hours drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch a direct train from London Charring Cross to Robertsbridge. From here you’ll have to get a 10 minute taxi to the castle.

Address: Bodiam Castle, Bodiam, Robertsbridge TN32 5UA

Blenheim Palace behind some fountains

9. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace can be found in the town of Woodstock, just outside Oxford. Built in the English Baroque style , it’s one of the most beautiful palaces in the UK, and was most notably the birthplace and home of former war-time Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.

Besides the beautiful architecture, the best thing about Blenheim Palace is that there’s plenty to see and do. The opulent palace state rooms are a must-visit with their gilded ceilings and impressive frescoes. The formal gardens and Marlborough Maze are the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon out of the city, or you can check out one of their many exhibits.

You may recognise Blenheim Palace, as its a popular filming locations for both television and film, and has been featured in Hollywood hits, such as:

  • The Avengers
  • Spectre 007
  • Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
  • Mission Impossible
  • The BFG Movie

If you’re interested in finding out more about Blenheim as a filming location, make sure to check out their Lights, Camera, Action! Trail.

Important Information: Admission: £28.50 Get 30% Off: when travelling by train bus or bike! Visit the website for more details. Website: https://www.blenheimpalace.com

How to Get to Blenheim Palace from London:

Distance from London: 62 miles, 1.5 hours drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch the direct train from London Paddington to Oxford station. Once you arrive, board the number 500 or the number 7 bus from Oxford Parkway and get off at Woodstock/Blenheim.

Address: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock OX20 1PP

10. Arundel Castle

The beautiful Arundel Castle is one of the easiest to reach by train from London. It includes a medieval Gatehouse, and Norman Keep, as well as some later architecture in the Gothic style. There’s plenty to explore, including the state rooms, filled with fine art and antique furniture, and the stunning old library.

Arundel Castle retains the magic of its past, and you too will feel like a Lord or Lady when you walk through its halls!

Important Information: Admission: £12 Website: https://www.arundelcastle.org

How to Get to Arundul Castle from London:

Distance from London: 64 miles, 1 hour 50 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch a direct train from London Victoria Station to Arundul Station. From here, you can walk the remaining 15 minutes to the castle.

Address: Arundel Castle, Arundel BN18 9AB

visit castle near london

11. Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is definitely much more touristy than the other spots on this list. It’s part of the Merlin group, along with attractions such as Legoland and Alton Towers, making it a popular destination for kids and families. Whilst it might not be the quiet and idyllic fairytale break you were looking for, it does promise plenty of fun!

This medieval castle was built by William the Conquerer in 1068. The original wooden structure was later rebuilt in stone and underwent a number of other changes over the years. Most notably, it became a major tourist attraction after being sold by the Greville family in 1978.

Best Things to Do at Warwick Castle:

  • Watch the birds of prey display
  • See some medieval archery
  • Visit the castle dungeon
  • Watch the trebuchet – a medieval weapon!
  • Get lost in the Horrible Histories Maze
Important Information: Admission: £17 when you pre-purchase tickets online Website: https://www.warwick-castle.com

How to Get to Warwick Castle from London:

Distance from London: 99 miles, 2 hour drive time

Using Public Transport: Get a direct train to Warwick from London Marylebone Station. This should take about 1.5 hours. From here it’s a 15 minute walk from the train station to the castle.

Address: Warwick Castle, Warwick CV34 4QU

visit castle near london

12. Colchester Castle

Just outside of London, in the commuter area of Essex, you’ll find this Medieval castle. Its last private owner was Charles Grey, an MP for Colchester in the 1700s. The castle became a museum in 1860, and remains so 150 years later!

This castle is much more interactive than a lot of the others on this list, making learning about its history fun. As you make your way around the building, you can take part in various activities, including steering a Roman chariot, or dressing as though you’ve stepped out of the Iron Age!

There are expert guides to show you everything you need to see, including the Castle roof and Roman vaults!

Important Information: Admission: £10 Website: https://colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/visit/colchester-castle/

How to Get to Colchester Castle From London:

Distance from London: 67 miles, 1 hours and 50 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Catch a direct train to Colchester from London Liverpool Street Station. Once you arrive, it’ll take about 20 minutes to walk to the castle or, alternatively, you could get a taxi.

Address: Colchester Castle, Colchester CO1 1TJ

13. Herstmonceux Castle

The stunning Herstmonceux Castle is actually used as an International Study Centre for Queen’s University in Canada – making it maybe the coolest place to study in the world?! This means that it’s generally not open to the public to explore. However, guided tours are often available and can be pre-booked online on the Hertmoceux Castle website.

The castle is set within 300 acres of woodland and boasts a number of gorgeous themed gardens, so is still 100% worth a visit without going inside. Wandering the castle’s grounds is the perfect way to spend a summers afternoon. Make sure to check out the orchard, the Shakespeare Garden, and the Rose Garden.

Important Information: Pre-book guided tours of the castle online Admission to the Gardens: £8 Website: https://herstmonceux-castle.com

How to Get to Herstmonceux Castle from London:

Distance from London: 72 miles, 2 hours and 15 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Get the direct train to Polegate from London Victoria Station. From here take the number 98 bus from the station to Windmill Hill. The castle is a 25 minute walk from the bus stop.

Address: Herstmonceux Castle, Hailsham BN27 1RN

Hampton court Palace near London

14. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is another beautiful castle near to London that’s definitely worth a visit. In fact, it’s also one of the most famous castles on this list, thanks to it once being Henry VIII’s favourite residence. He lived here with each of his 6 wives, making the Palace an important site of political contention and intrigue.

Upon visiting, you’ll be able to explore a number of the Palace’s rooms, including the King’s apartments, the kitchens, and the Great Hall, where you’ll learn about the history of Henry VIII. You’ll also gain access to the beautiful gardens.

Hampton Court Maze

The Hampton Court Palace Maze is the oldest surviving hedge maze in the UK. It was commissioned around 1700, and nowadays is open to the public. This is definitely a fun way to spend an afternoon in the sunshine before settling down for a picnic on the lawns!

How to Get to Hampton Court Palace from London:

Distance from London: 15 miles drive

Using Public Transport: Get the train from London Waterloo Station to Hampton Court Station. The journey should take you about 35 minutes in total and it’s possible to use your Oyster card for the journey.

Address: Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU

Website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/

Dover Castle in the evening

15. Dover Castle

Dover Castle is one of the oldest castles in the UK, dating back to the 12th century. It has a long and fascinating history. During World War II, tunnels were carved into the infamous white cliffs, and used for war planning purposes. Later the tunnels were renovated as one of 12 regional seats of government should a nuclear war break out. Nowadays you can take a tour of the tunnels, as well as the underground hospital used during the war.

Other attractions include the Roman lighthouse, the Anglo-Saxon church, and the Great Tower. You can even try your hand at a bunker escape room!

Important Information: Admission: £23 This is another English Heritage owned castle, meaning members don’t have to pay admission! Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dover-castle/

How to Get to Dover Castle from London:

Distance from London: 78 miles, around 1 hour 40 minutes drive time

Using Public Transport: Get a direct train to Dover Priory from London’s St Pancras International. The journey should take around 1.5 hours. From here you can get the number 93 bus from Priory Street to Dover Caste.

Address: Castle Hill Rd, Dover CT16 1HU

Kensington Palace

16. Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is another of the Fairytale Castles that don’t require you to leave London. This beautiful royal home is stationed in the upmarket neighbourhood of Kensington. Here you can visit Queen Victoria’s re-imagined childhood rooms, as well as the lavish King’s State Apartments and Queen’s State Apartments.

The Palace also hosts regular exhibitions such as ‘Diana: Redesigning a Princess’ and ‘Victoria: Woman and Crown’, allowing you to deep dive into certain aspects of royal life.

What makes Kensington Palace particularly exciting is that it still acts as a royal home. It’s the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate!

As its in the heart of the city, there’s also plenty to do nearby. Once you’ve finished exploring the palace, make sure to check out:

  • Serpentine Gallery
  • Princess Diana Memorial Fountain
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Natural History Museum
Important Information: Admission: £17 There is no on-site parking at Kensington Palace Website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/

How to Get to Kensington Palace

Closest underground stations: High Street Kensington (District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines), and Queensway Station (Central line). Both are a 10 minute walk away from the Palace.

Address: Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, Kensington, London W8 4PX

17. Scotney Castle

At Scotney Castle, you’ll go on a ride through the passage of time. In the countryside of Tunbridge Wells, you’ll find both a 14th century moated castle and a Victorian country mansion set in the stunning woodland estate.

Scotney Castle has a varied and unique history. In the 16th century, for example, as the Church moved toward Protestantism, the Durrell family secretly hid a Catholic priest for 7 years in a concealed chamber at the manor. Much later, in the 1970s-1980s, former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher rented the Belfry Flat as a weekend residence.

One of the best things about Scotney Castle is its 770 acres of parkland , so try visiting in the warm spring/summer months to experience everything the place has to offer!

Scotney also has a working hop farm, used to produce Scotney Ale and Scotney Bitter, which can be purchased in the gift shop!

Top Tips for Visiting Scotney Castle: Consider getting a National Trust membership! Scotney Castle is a National Trust property, meaning a membership will get you free entry! The trust has plenty of other incredible locations across the UK, so it’s definitely worth the investment. If you’re between 18 – 25 years old, it’s only £36 for the year.

How to Get to Scotney Castle

Distance from London: 53 miles, 1.5 hours drive time

Using Public Transport: catch the train from London Bridge station to Paddock Wood. This should take you about 40 minutes. From here you’ll have to catch a taxi to Scotney Castle, which is 15 minutes away.

Address: Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells TN3 8JN

Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

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Historic European Castles

Best Castles near London

Learn the fascinating history of England from the Norman conquest through the Tudor Dynasty and on into the modern history of WWI and WWII by visiting the country’s amazing and historic castles and fortifications. From the heart of London out into the stunning surrounding countryside, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of some of the most notable Royal and influential families of Britain the only questions is, where will you visit first?

The Best Castles To Visit In And Near London

visit castle near london

1. Tower of London

Castles near London-Tower-of-London

Founded by William the Conqueror and used as a fortress, royal palace, Royal mint, Jewel House, and infamous prison and place of execution, the Tower of London contains 1,000 years of history within its ancient walls.

The huge keep otherwise known a the Great Tower, or The White Tower (essentially what everyone refers to as ‘The Tower of London’, is where English history has played out with Anne Boleyn, the young princes, and Guy Fawkes just some of the 8,000 people who have been incarcerated here throughout history.

Step inside for a guided tour by the Queen’s Yeomen Warders, the ceremonial guardians of the tower better known as the Beefeaters.

Where:  Central London When:  12 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

2. Windsor Castle

visit castle near london

One of the Royal Residences of the Queen, Windsor Castle is not only the largest occupied castle in the world but also the oldest. Boasting 900 years of history, it has been the home of 39 King’s and Queens of England including Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Queen Victoria who used Windsor as a full-time residence.

Where:  Windsor, Berkshire When:  11 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Usually open daily but closures can happen at short notice – Check the  website  to be sure.

3. Kew Palace

Famous Castles near London-Kew-Palace

Located in Kew Gardens on the banks of the River Thames, this small Royal Palace (the smallest of them all) was built in 1631 by a London silk merchant.

The fashionable mansion only became a Royal palace later, used as a weekend retreat for several generations of the Georgian Royalty before becoming the Summer home of George III and Queen Charlotte.

Inside you’ll find an exhibition dedicated to George III where you can learn about this famous King and his mental illness.

Where:  Royal Botanic Gardens, Richmond, London When:  17 th  century Style:  Georgian Open for visit:  Yes. Check here for more information.

You might also like:  The best castles to visit in England. 

4. Lullingstone Castle

Castles near London-Lullingstone-Castle

One of England’s oldest family estates, home to members of the Hart Dyke family since the 15 th  century (that’s twenty generations), the history of Lullingstone Castle can be traced back to 1085, the time of the Domesday record.

A fortified Manor House in Tudor times (visited by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn), Lullingstone was renamed as a castle in the 18 th  century. Today it’s not just the castle that draws in visitors but the World Garden located in the grounds which combines plant heritage with cutting-edge horticulture, all laid out in the shape of the world.

Where:  Lullingstone, Dartford Kent When:  15 th  century Style:  Jacobean Open for visit:  Yes. Check here for more information.

5. Eynsford Castle

Best castles near London-Eynsford-Castle

This Medieval fortification is a rare example of an ‘enclosure castle’ from the early Norman period. An ‘enclosure castle’ is protected by a curtain wall rather than a keep or motte as with most other Norman castles .

Today, parts of the impressive curtain wall still stand intact to their original 30 feet (9 metres) height and you can also see the remains of a spiral staircase and parts of a fireplace in the ruins of what were the inner buildings.

Where:  Eynsford, Kent When:  11 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes. Check here for more information.

6. Berkhamsted Castle

visit castle near london

This motte-and-bailey castle , one of the oldest in England, was built so as to control a vital route from London to the Midlands during the Norman conquest. It is the place where the Anglo-Saxons surrendered to William the Conqueror in 1066.

As you walk around the exterior ruins of the castle today, consider that you’re walking in the footsteps of Thomas Becket, Edward the Black Prince, and Geoffrey Chaucer, this castle remaining in Royal hands through the Middle Ages.

Where:  Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire When:  11 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes. Check here for more information.

7. Hadleigh Castle

Castles near London-Hadleigh-Castle

This now ruined fortification was built during the reign of Henry II and played an important economic and defensive role. Built by Hubert de Burgh in 1215, Hadleigh Castle later became a Royal Palace for Edward III who extensively refortified the castle during the Hundred Years War.

Today only two drum towers and the barbican remain but the picturesque landscape with views overlooking the Thames Estuary still make this a striking place to visit.

Where:  Hadleigh, Essex When:  13 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes, check here for more information.

8. Warwick Castle

Best castles near London-Warwick-Castle

William the Conqueror built Warwick Castle in 1068, replacing the original wooden motte and bailey fort that originally stood on the site. Located on the picturesque River Avon, the castle provides 1,000 years of history to uncover as you climb the ramparts and the towers before going below ground to the dungeons.

Where:  Warwick, Warwickshire When:  12 th  century Style:  Medieval Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

9. Dover Castle

Famous Castles near London-Dover-Castle

Described as ‘The Key To England’ due to its location, Dover Castle is the most iconic fortress in England. Explore the Medieval tunnels and admire the Medieval furnishings, learn about the Roman and Saxon history.

Visit the tower built by King Henry II and learn the importance of Dover Castle during WWI when it was a command post and in WWII when Operation Dynamo was masterminded in its secret underground tunnels to evacuate the soldiers from Dunkirk.

Where:  Dover, Kent When:  11 th  century Style:  Medieval Open for visit:  Yes. – Check the  English Heritage websit e for details.

Check out: The best castles to visit in Kent.

10. Arundel Castle

Castles near London-Arundel-Castle

Arundel Castle provided a 2 in 1 experience being both a restored Medieval castle and Gothic stately home. The castle retains many original features from 1067 when it was built including the Medieval gatehouse, Norman Keep, and Barbican.

Sitting atop a hill it has magnificent views out across the South Downs and River Arun which you can enjoy along with interactive exhibits and costumed guides to help your trip back in time truly come alive.

Where:  Arundel, Sussex When:  11 th  century Style:  Medieval Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

11. Bramber Castle

visit castle near london

Only one wall of the 14-metre high tower survives of this Norman motte-and-bailey castle but the view from the top of the motte makes it well worth a visit as you look down upon the River Adur.

Built to protect William I newly acquired territories soon after the Norman Conquest, Bramber Castle was the seat of the de Braose family until it was confiscated by King John, later becoming the seat of the Mowbray family before subsidence led to the castle being abandoned, it falling into ruin during the 16th century.

Where:  Bramber, Steyning, West Sussex When:  11 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes. Open dawn-dusk. Check here for more information.

12. Bodiam Castle

Famous Castles near London-Bodiam-Castle

Built in 1385, this medieval moated castle is a sight to behold with its well-preserved exterior reflecting so beautifully in the water. Climb the battlements to soak up the surrounding views and learn the Saxon history of this castle which was built by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a knight of Edward III.

Where:  Bodiam, Robertsbridge, East Sussex When:  14 th  century Style:  Medieval Open for visit:  Yes,  check here for more information.

13. Tonbridge Castle

Castles near London-Tonbridge-Castle

Go back in time 700 years with interactive displays and life-size figures helping to recreate the sights and sounds of Medieval castle life. Learn about the Kings, Archbishops, and tyrants who have shapes Tonbridge Castle’s past from 1066 onwards (when the castle was a simple fort) as you move from the gatehouse to the armoury and right up to the top of the tower to admire the view.

Where:  Tonbridge, Kent When:  13 th  century Style:  Medieval Open for visit:  Yes. Click here for more information.

14. Hever Castle

Best castles near London-Hever-Castle-&-Gardens

Famous for being the seat of the Boleyn family between 1462 to 1539, this is the place where Anne Bolyn spent her childhood. Step back in time to explore 700 years of history that shaped England as you admire the architecture inside and out as well as the stunning gardens and lake.

There’s plenty to keep the whole family happy with archery, shield painting, and jousting events too.

Where:  Hever, Edenbridge, Kent When:  13 th  century Style:  Medieval Open for visit:  Yes. For more information, click here.

15. Leeds Castle

Famous Castles near London-Leeds-Castle

Built in stunning surroundings, on an island in a lake, this 900-year-old castle was originally a Norman stronghold,  later becoming a Tudor palace used by King Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon in the 16 th  century but the history doesn’t end there, after the Tudor dynasty Leeds Castle became first a Jacobean House and then a Georgian Mansion before being replaced by a new castle, the one we still see today.

The castle is located in Kent close to the village of Leeds rather than the city of Leeds so be sure you’re planning a trip to the right area of England!

Where:  Maidstone, Kent When:  12 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes.  Check here for more information.

16. Rochester Castle

visit castle near london

Admire one of the tallest and best-preserved Norman Keeps in England at Rochester Castle in Kent (not to be confused with Rochester in Northumberland!).

The castle, which was built in the 1080s for Henry I, sits on the sight of an old Roman Settlement on the banks of the River Medway and is an imposing sight visible for miles, a reminder to this day of medieval secular power.

Where:  Rochester, Kent When:  12 th  century Style:  Norman Open for visit:  Yes,  check here for more information.

17. Upnor Castle

Best castles near London-Upnor-Castle

A rare example of an Elizabethan artillery fort, Upnor Castle was built on the banks of the River Medway on the orders of Queen Elizabeth I in 1559 to protect the warships at Chatham dockyard.

Unfortunately, the fort didn’t live up to its expectations with the Dutch sailing past in 1667 either burning or capturing the anchored English fleet.

Where:  Upper Upnor, Rochester, Kent When:  16 th  century Style:  Elizabethan Open for visit:  Yes. Check here for more information.

18. Highclere Castle

Famous Castles near London-Highclere-Castle

Made famous as the filming location of Downton Abbey, visit the 5,000-acre estate to learn about the real family, the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, who live at Highclere Castle as you go on a guided tour of their home that has a history dating as far back as 749.

Downton fans can also choose to do a film set tours to see the staterooms shown in Downton Abbey (the below stairs scenes taking place not in the castle at all but at a TV studio!).

Where:  Highclere, Newbury, Hampshire When:  17 th  century Style:  Jacobean Open for visit:  Yes, selected dates only – See  website  for details.

19. Severndroog Castle

Castles near London-Severndroog-Castle

One of London’s loveliest hidden gems, this elegant and well preserved Georgian tower is located in a beautiful woodland making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Built in 1784 as a memorial to the director of the East India Company Sir William James, it is located at one of the highest points in London ensuring panoramic views across the city and beyond from the viewing platform.

Where:  Greenwich, London When:  18 th  century Style:  Georgian Open for visit:  Yes. Check here for more information.

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Roaming Required

11 of the best castles near london to explore.

Last updated: 11 July 2023

It’s amazing that there are so many great castles and ruins so close to London. Jump in a hire car and head out a day or a weekend trip and visit any one these castles near London.

Step back to your childhood dreams of princesses, royalty and warriors when you explore towers that were once look-out for sentries and crumbling ruins that were once walked upon by knights. Pick one or multiple to visit in a day, BYO picnic and make a day of it.  

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which means that if you click on them and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you, we may earn a small commission. This helps keep the lights on at Roaming Required HQ. We sincerely thank you for your support.

Windsor Castle, Berkshire

One can’t talk of England and castles without mentioning Windsor.  Built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion by William the Conqueror, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world.

A visit to Windsor Castle includes the statement apartments which house the finest works of art from the Royal Collection including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto, a visit to St George’s Chapel which was the location of the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s in May 2018, and a Precinct Tour with one of the Castle’s wardens.

Windsor Castle, one of the many castles near London.

Fondly referred to as Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite weekend home, be sure to time your visit to Windsor Castle for the Changing the Guard, which has been carried out since 1660. The ceremony begins at 11am and lasts approximately 30 minutes, weather permitting, it is England after all!

  • Distance from London: < an hour
  • Postcode:  SL4 1NJ
  • Book Tickets

READ MORE: 18 Iconic London Landmarks You Can’t Miss

Leeds castle, kent.

Don’t let the name mislead you, Leeds Castle is a long way from the city of Leeds.  Built in 1119 as a Norman stronghold, Leeds Castle is less than 50 miles from London in the county of Kent.

Leeds Castle, less than an hour from London

Leeds Castle is more a stately home on a grand property rather than a crumbling fortress, it has been the property of six of England’s medieval queens; including Catherine of Aragon, first wife of King Henry VIII who transformed it from a fortified stronghold to a magnificent Tudor palace. While it didn’t end well for Catherine, Henry divorced her but at least she kept her head!

The exterior of Leeds Castle

During the 1930s, the new owner, Heiress the Hon. Olive Paget (Aka Lady Baillie) transformed Leeds Castle into one of the great English country houses and made it the centre of lavish parties, hosting statesmen, European royalty and film stars.

When Lady Baillie died in 1974 she left the castle and the grounds to a charity whose main aim was, and still is, to preserve the castle for future generations to enjoy. Today a visit to Leeds Castle is incomplete without a visit to the impressive hedge maze, grotto and a thorough stroll through the extensive grounds and gardens.

  • Distance from London: 1.25-1.5 hours
  • Postcode:  ME17 1PL
  • Book Tickets  

Castles Near London Map

Rochester Castle, Kent

Strategically placed to guard an important crossing of the River Medway, this imposing fortress has a complex history of destruction and rebuilding.

This Norman tower-keep of Kentish ragstone dates back to the 12th century and still stands as a prominent feature of the city of Rochester, dominating the skyline from a top of the hill, standing at 113 feet high.

The exterior of Rochester Castle

In 1215, the castle endured an epic siege which resulted in the southern corner crashing down. The castle was rebuilt under Henry III and Edward I, the castle remained as a viable fortress until the sixteenth century.

The fortress has been included in the works of artists and writers, including diarist Samuel Pepys and Charles Dickens who lived in Rochester and included the castle ruins in The Pickwick Papers and The Mystery of Edwin Drood.

  • Distance from London: ~ an hour
  • Postcode:  ME1 1SW
  • Ticket Prices and Opening Times

READ MORE: Cutty Sark – World’s Fastest Tea Clipper

Highclere castle, north wessex.

Situated in the North Wessex Downs is Highclere Castle, although you might know it as a filming location for Downton Abbey . Highclere Castle has a rich, multi-faceted heritage with records dating back to 749AD.  

Exterior of Highclere Castle

Highclere is open to the public for general admission at specific times throughout the year. April, May and a couple of months over the summer is when visitors can explore the grounds and attend special events such as the Highclere Castle Battle Proms Concert, a full two hour programme of captivating classical music.

  • Distance from London: 1.5 hours
  • Postcode:  RG20 9RN
  • Book a day trip from London

Arundel Castle, West Sussex

Founded at the end of the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery on Christmas Day 1067. Arundel Castle has been the family home of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for more than 950 years making it one of the longest inhabited country houses in England.

Exterior of Arundel Castle seen between trees

Be sure to visit the Keep, the gardens and Fitzalan Chapel, a burial ground for the members of the family of owners, the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk.

  • Distance from London:  1.75-2 hours
  • Postcode: BN18 9AB

Dover Castle, Kent

The largest castle in England and one of the most imposing of all English fortresses, Dover Castle is built on the iconic White Cliffs in the 11th century.

A landscape view of Dover Castle, one of the most impressive castles near London

The strategic location on the country’s coastline showcased it’s defensive intentions, serving as a Roman lighthouse, an underground hospital, and the secret wartime tunnels from which England commanded many operations like Operation Dynamo, the evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches and harbour of Dunkirk during World War II.

  • Postcode: CT16 1HU

READ MORE: 15 Fun Day Trips from London by Car under 2 hours

Portchester castle, hampshire.

Situated in the northern end of Portsmouth Harbour, Portchester Castle founded in the late 11th century.  A fortification and a residence of Kings. Norman kings used it when crossing the Channel, while Richard II built a palace within the walls, and it served as a rallying point for the troops who embarked from here on the expedition that led to the Battle of Agincourt in 1451.

The view from atop Portchester Castle

The impressive waterfront-facing outer walls are of a Roman fortress. Reaching to their full height, they are the most complete in Europe. From the top of the Norman keep there are spectacular views over the castle and harbour town of Portsmouth.

  • Distance from London: 1.75 hours
  • Postcode:  PO16 9QW

Deal Castle, Kent

As one of the earliest and most elaborate of a chain of coastal forts, Deal Castle was built by the order of King Henry VIII in 1539-40 to defend the south coast of England from invasion. It remains one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in England.

The entrance to Deal Castle in Walmer England

The circular keep has openings in the walls where handguns could be fired and circular shafts that took gun smoke out through the roof.  Explore the three floors of this circular labyrinthine keep, the ramparts and the atmospheric tunnels in the basement.

  • Postcode:  CT14 7BA

READ MORE: Kent – The Weekend Road Trip

Orford castle, suffolk.

Built between 1165 and 1173 by Henry II of England to consolidate royal power in the region. What makes Orford Castle unique is the polygonal tower keep which stands beside the pretty town and former port.

The exterior of Orford Castle, just one of man great castles near London

The castle is a maze of passages which allows visitors to explore from the basement, through the lower and upper halls, the chapel, kitchen and finally to the roof where there are magnificent views seaward to Orford Ness.

  • Distance from London: 2.5 hours
  • Postcode:   IP12 2ND

Pevensey Castle, East Sussex

With a history stretching back over 16 centuries, Pevensey Castle chronicles more graphically than any other fortress the story of Britain’s south coast defences. This is one of our favourite castles near London to visit because of its remarkable history and the role it played during the Norman conquest on 1066 AD. 

If you’d like to find out more about Pevensey Castle then we suggest having a read of our post covering everything you need to know about a visit to Pevensey Castle and why it remains one of our personal favourite castle ruins in the UK. 

The interior of Pevensey Castle, a pile of cannon balls piled up into a pyramid

Beginning in the 4th century, Pevensey was one of the last and strongest of the Roman forts, two-thirds of the towered walls still stand today. It was the landing place of William the Conqueror’s army in 1066, and after the Conquest it became a full-scale Norman castle, with a great square keep and a powerful gatehouse.

  • Distance from London: 2 hours
  • Postcode:  TN32 5UA
  • Tickets Prices and Opening Times

READ MORE: Discover 1600 Years of History at Pevensey Castle 

Bodiam castle, kent.

A 14th century moated castle with spiral staircases, battlements and a portcullis makes Bodiam one of Britain’s most picturesque and romantic ancient monuments. Bodiam Castle was one of the first castles we visited when we first arrived in London and boy did it make a lasting impression. It is truly a magnificent castle and definitely should be visited by all. 

Bodiam Castle, a beautifully historic castle near London

When exploring the impressive grounds, don’t miss the gatehouse with it’s rare and original wooden portcullis!

  • Distance from London:  1.5-1.75 hours
  • Postcode:  BN24 5LE

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Six of the best castles near london.

visit castle near london

Despite castles being found all over the world, there is something about the typical medieval fortifications that always seems to hark back to British culture and heritage. The first castles were constructed in Norman times to protect Britain from naval invaders – built as defensive points along the coastline. Later, they were also constructed further inland, where they served as both protection and regal homes.

Castles were an integral part of British culture for centuries, and their construction was one of the many factors that enabled Britain to develop at such a pace in the Middle Ages. Nowadays, castles are an awe-inspiring must-visit for all who are interested in English heritage and history. There are lots of medieval castles all over Great Britain , but  plenty near London that you can visit on a day trip from the capital. Here’s my six favourite:

Hever Castle

Hever Castle near London, England

Just an hour from London lies this glorious double moated seven-century old castle. It was built in 1270 as a medieval defensive castle, and later passed to the Boleyn family – who were at the time one of the most influential families in the country. It was thus the childhood home of Anne Boleyn; Henry VIII’s second wife, Elizabeth I’s mother, and one of British history’s most colourful characters.

The furniture, tapestries and portraits of the castle are fantastically well preserved and a fine collection of Tudor possessions still remain. One of the castle’s rooms, ‘The Book of Hours Room’ contains two prayer books used and annotated by Anne Boleyn herself. The castle was restored in the early 20 th century by William Waldorf Astor, who also created the gorgeous Italian gardens which are open for the public to enjoy.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle near London, England

Emerging proudly from its plot in the centre of a moat, Leeds Castle still oozes prestige nearly a millennium after its establishment. It has been used for various notable purposes throughout the centuries: a Norman stronghold, the residency of six medieval queens and Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon’s palace.

The castle became a royal residence in 1278 and remained as such for 300 years. It therefore still boasts an impressive fusion of medieval and Tudor history and tells fascinating stories of its residents since then and up to the present day. Visit Leeds castle for castle tours, punting on the moat and the largest collection of dog collars in the world, the oldest of which dates back from the 15 th century!

Dover Castle

Dover Castle near London, England

Dover Castle has been called ‘The Key to England’ and has been an important defensive structure to the country, due to its naval proximity to the continent. Originally the site of a Roman Lighthouse, the castle as we know it was constructed in the 1180s under Henry II. For some time, it was used as a residence to welcome noble visitors to England, but often proved significant in the protection of the country from foreign troops. Its defensive worth was increased in the Second World War, where the Napoleonic tunnels provided the setting for the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk.

Hastings Castle

Hastings Castle near London, England

1066 is a year that every British schoolchild learns; it was when William the Conqueror triumphed at the Battle of Hastings. At Hastings Castle, you can listen to ‘The 1066 Story’, which is an engaging twenty minute audio-visual discussing the battle and subsequent story of the castle.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle near London, England

The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle is without a doubt a jewel of Britain and is one of the best day trips from London – even in the winter !

The castle spreads out over 13 acres and the current Queen of Great Britain spends many weekends there – if the flag from the Round Tower is the Royal Standard, it means the Queen is around! You can look around the State Apartments with Royal Collection works of art, visit St George’s Chapel where 10 monarchs are buried, experience Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House which is the largest and most famous dolls’ house in the world and (in the winter months) explore the Semi-State rooms which are used by The Queen when she has guests. Also, don’t miss the Changing of the Guards ceremonies!

The Tower of London

The Tower of London in London, England

If you’re a bit pushed for time on your London break, or don’t want to have to deal with trains, one of the country’s finest castles is right in the city centre. The Tower of London is based on the north bank of the River Thames in the heart of the capital. It was founded during the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 and the White Tower was built in 1078. Integral to British society, defending the building has represented protecting the whole nation. It was used as a medieval royal residence and later as a prison; the most notable captive being Elizabeth I before she became Queen. This is how the British phrase ‘sent to the tower’ to describe somebody being detained or banished was coined.

A castle is an essential visit for anybody interested in British history and how the complex European nation developed. And with so many in such easy reach of London; a visit to one (or all, depending on your timescale!) should be a fundamental part of any London tourist’s itinerary.

Have you visited any of these castles? Are there any others close to London that you would recommend? 

If you enjoyed this post, please share it!

If you’re searching for some more unusual things to do in London, check out these castles near London. They all make great day trips from London and are great for visiting London with kids. See some of the best historical sites in England and Britain with these castles in London!

28 thoughts on “ Six of the Best Castles Near London ”

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I’ve only seen Dover Castle from afar and never managed to stop for a visit (too keen on catching the ferry), but I should definitely plan a castle tour the next time I am in the UK.

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It’s well worth the trip!

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I love castles, chateaus, etc and always seek them out when I am traveling. I have only been in London 3 times, but only the city – next time I have to get out and explore!

Same, they’re so interesting, with so much history! Yes definitely use this post as a guide when you next go to London 🙂

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Excellent article and beautiful pictures! I am intrigued by the history of these castles but visited only the Tower of London.

Thanks very much! They’re fascinating aren’t they!

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It’s incredible to think of these as being almost 1,000 years old! I lived in England when I was a kid so I know I’ve been to the Tower of London and possibly some of the others, although the only one I actually remember is Warwick Castle. I would love to see where Henry VIII lived because I’ve read so many books about him and all those wives! 🙂

I know right! Amazing, I’ve never actually been to Warwick Castle, these are all near to where I grew up. Henry VIII is fascinating isn’t he?! There’s loads of information about him and Anne Boleyn at Hever Castle, it’s where my passion for history was really inspired.

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Yeah, I’ve seen two of them… but there are so many to see. Thanks for sharing. Love your photos. Definitely need to go and visit the Hever and Leeds castle. Looks awesome.

Cheers, Reni

Hever and Leeds castle are my favourites I think! Definitely make the trip if you can. There’s so much amazing history there!

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Reading through this post all I could hear was the ‘Game of Thrones’ theme song. Dammit! Great pos though 🙂

Crystal recently posted… How to Kill a Man with Your Bare Hands

Haha, thanks 🙂

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Awesome List! I have always wanted to visit a castle! Thanks for sharing with us!

No problem, glad you enjoyed. Hope you get the chance to visit one of these someday!

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This is perfect for me to bookmark! I’m heading to London for the first time in October and want to make sure I see some castles while I’m there. I’ll definitely make sure Tower of London is on my list, but I’d also like to see Windsor. Your photos of it are stunning.

Great to hear! Definitely check them out, Windsor is pretty easy to get to from West London and it’s well worth the visit! I have to say my favourite on the list is Hever, so if you have a spare day try and get there too! How long are you in London for?

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Definitely on my bucket list to just do a castle tour. Thanks for the great post!

A week long castle tour would be amazing! That’s a good business idea…

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Cool, its like living in the world of Harry Potter! Definitely some fairytale castles there!

Haha, it is isn’t it?! There’s so many in England!

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Only the Tower of London:) I’ve never heard of Hever castle:)

Hever Castle is my favourite! It’s where I always used to go as a child, so I may be a little biased but it’s lovely 🙂

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This is excellent! I’ve only been to two of these so far :):)

Ah which ones have you been to so far?

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I am absolutely crazy about castles and medieval fortifications as they tell us so much about how people used to live back then when sieges and wars were just a way of life…I have only been to Warwick Castle which is very well preserved, but these sound more authentic for sure.

They’re so interesting aren’t they, it’s hard to imagine actually needing them for defense! I’ve never been to Warwick Castle, would definitely like to go at some point though!

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This post is so useful! A few of my friends and I are trying to decide what to do this bank holiday Monday that’s outside London but still not too far away – I’m going to propose one of these castles, hopefully I don’t get out-voted 😉

Amazing, you’ll love them! I really recommend Hever, not too far from London and one of the best 🙂

Comments are closed.

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7 Best castles near London every history lover should visit

Visit the castles that tell the story of Britain through the ages

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visit castle near london

  • 09 December 2021
  • • 8 min read

If you’re interested in medieval history, English heritage and the Royal Family, making time to visit these castles near London is one of the best things you can do. Whilst there are plenty of opportunities to delve into British history without hopping on a train out of London, castles like Queen Elizabeth’s second home, Windsor Castle, and the childhood home of the notorious Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle, outside the busy capital are incredibly easy to reach. Plan a or two in advance to learn more about England’s fascinating former monarchs and what happened within the walls of some of the most historic buildings in the UK. Read on to discover the castles and palaces near London you simply have to visit during a trip to the Big Smoke.

Looking for somewhere to stay in London? s dotted all over the city

1. Windsor Castle

Get to Windsor Castle from London Paddington or London Waterloo by train: 45 minutes

Just outside London on the River Thames is the world’s biggest occupied castle, Windsor Castle. A day trip from London to this part of the country will give visitors a look into what a quaint, historic English town is like, with its contrast of traditional pubs and cobbled streets against the more modern brasseries and shopping arcades. The castle itself is the centrepiece of Windsor - its stone walls are surrounded by a grassy moat where people picnic in the summer, and The Long Walk from the castle gates offers a magnificent view. 

Tours inside the castle are available and absolutely worth the extra spend, but you can also take a free 30-minute tour of the castle precincts led by one of the wardens who know the history of Windsor inside-out. Every Thursday and Saturday, visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard spectacle, seeing the soldiers in red coats and tall, fur hats march through Windsor town and into the castle just before 11 am in time for the main event - although you’ll need to purchase a ticket to watch the whole thing. 

2. Highclere Castle

Get to Highclere Castle from London Paddington by train: 40 minutes

Highclere Castle shot to fame when the award-winning television period drama, Downton Abbey was brought to our screens (you can watch it on Netflix now, you know). It’s such an easy journey from London Paddington, with trains running directly to Newbury station which is just a 15-minute taxi from the castle. While we all imagine the Crawley family and their beloved servants running around the estate, in true life, Highclere Castle was actually never too dissimilar from this. However, it had far more owners than just one high-profile family throughout its time. Like the series, however, it was converted into a hospital for wounded soldiers during the First World War, before becoming a home for evacuees in the Second World War.

Now, you can visit Highclere Castle from London on certain dates throughout the year when it opens to visitors for self-guided tours. Tickets will get you access to the gardens, inside the castle itself and the Egyptian Exhibition - the Earl of Carnarvon and Highclere owner was one of those to discover the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. 

3. Warwick Castle

Get to Warwick Castle from London Marylebone by train: 1hr 25 minutes

One of the most famous castles in England is located in the midlands on the banks of the River Avon, an easy journey out of London from Marylebone station. What you see of this medieval castle now is certainly not how it looked when it was first built back in 1068 by one of the most notorious figures in British history, William the Conqueror. Originally, Warwick Castle was built out of wood with the purpose of keeping control of the midlands as William the Conqueror advanced into the north of England. It was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century and saw several battles and wars fought around it, and was the site of King Edward IV’s imprisonment. 

Now, Warwick Castle is a major tourist attraction for all ages, offering tours inside and plenty of activities on the castle grounds that will take you right back to medieval times. Book your tickets in advance to save some cash and discover over 1,100 years of history at Warwick Castle near London.

4. Hever Castle

Get to Hever Castle from London Bridge by train: 40 minutes

Built in 1270, Hever Castle near London in the county of Kent was home to one of the most powerful families of the Tudor period: the Boleyns. In the 15th and 16th century, the Boleyn family occupied Hever and made it home, as Anne Boleyn grew up to be the Queen of England by talking her way into becoming King Henry VIII's second wife. This was where the Boleyn ownership took a downward turn, as it was later taken out of their hands and passed onto Anne of Cleves, another of the King’s six wives. From then, many wealthy families have taken ownership of Hever, but it was William Waldorf Astor that took time and money to transform the property into the beauty it holds today, being the one to construct the incredible gardens and lake within the castle grounds. Hever Castle is steeped in fascinating tales and a rich history and you can visit it from London in less than 40 minutes. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee your entry on the day.

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5. Blenheim Palace

Get to Blenheim Palace from London Marylebone by train: 1 hour 15 minutes

We know that castles and palaces are not the same things, however, Blenheim Palace well deserves a spot on this list if you’re looking for a day trip from London packed with history and beautiful architecture. Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site, beginning its time as a gift from Queen Anne to the 1st Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill as a display of gratitude for his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704. The palace was the very place where Sir Winston Churchill was born in 1874 - you can even take a look inside the bedroom. Take an audio tour within the walls of the magnificent Blenheim Palace, exploring the wealth of stories from the rich ‘Upstairs’ and how it all worked behind the scenes ‘Downstairs’. 

There is so much to see at Blenheim Palace: the Churchill Exhibition, the Stables Exhibition, the palace state rooms, its stunning sensory garden and countryside walks within the palace grounds and beyond. This palace near London is a must-visit for a truly captivating experience of discovering more about British heritage.

6. Dover Castle

Get to Dover Castle from London St Pancras by train: 1 hour

Overlooking the English Channel by the port of Dover, this castle has a history dating back over 2,000 years. Put your walking shoes on because there is a lot to explore in this medieval corner of England, with a fair bit of uphill walking to reach sweeping views of Dover harbour and the sea once you reach the castle. Being on the southeastern coast, it’ll come as no surprise that this settlement has seen its fair share of wars and battles during its time. It’s thought that the first fort was built at this site in the Roman era, but what you can visit today was established by Henry II in the 1180s - the most advanced design for a castle in Europe for its time. In more recent years, Dover Castle was the headquarters during World War I and World War II, as the harbour became the base for the Royal Navy’s Dover Patrol in order to defend against German submarines and protect communications to and from the Army in France and Flanders.

On a visit to Dover Castle today, you can easily spend an entire day soaking up the endless stories it holds. Climb the Great Tower for brilliant views, discover what was once a medieval court and walk through the secret wartime tunnels - it really is a walk through history.

7. Leeds Castle

Get to Leeds Castle from London Victoria by train: 1 hour 10 minutes

Don’t be fooled by the name… Leeds Castle is near London, not Leeds, in the southeastern county of Kent. Surrounded by a serene lake, this castle has an incredibly rich history. From being a Norman stronghold to housing six medieval Queens to being Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon’s palace, there’s no doubt that Leeds Castle will fill you up on juicy stories from throughout history. Tour its majestic rooms and discover more in the Gatehouse Exhibition, which houses countless original artefacts throughout the castle’s time including its 300 years of royal ownership. With over 500 acres of greenery, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens, watch a falconry display and discover the surrounding wildlife on a charming circular walk through its countryside. Being such an easy train journey from London, this castle really is a fine display of English heritage.

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12 Epic Castles Near London To Visit

  • Sunday, Feb 9th, 2020

12 Epic Castles Near London To Visit

Whether it’s the sense of history, the fact that each castle is so different, or the power of imagination that sees us living the castle life, there’s no doubt that these historical buildings fascinate us.  With well over 1500 examples in England ready to be explored, I’ve chosen a selection of castles near London for your visiting pleasure.

  • 1 Castles Near London: Visiting Tips
  • 2 Hever Castle, Kent
  • 3 Bodiam Castle: East Sussex
  • 4 Hastings Castle, Sussex
  • 5 Camber Castle, Sussex
  • 6 Berkhamsted Castle
  • 7 Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
  • 9 Scotney Castle, Kent
  • 10 Dover Castle, Kent
  • 11 Rochester Castle,Kent
  • 12 Leeds Castle, Kent
  • 13 Arundel Castle, West Sussex
  • 14 Windsor Castle, Berkshire
  • 15 Castles Near London And Beyond

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12 Epic Castles Near London To Visit

Castles Near London: Visiting Tips

Castles vary tremendously in style, age and state of restoration.  Here we have chosen everything from splendid ruins to opulent spaces for our recommendations of castles near London.  It’s worth checking out the details for the castles you plan to visit.  For ruins, you’ll need decent footwear, even in summer, as gravel between your toes is not the best sensation.  And layer up if needed.  It would be a shame to limit your time because you are cold or splashed with rain.

Hever Castle, Kent

30 miles from central London by car. By train from London Victoria or London Bridge, then a short taxi ride or a one mile country walk.

Castles Near London: Hever Castle, Kent, childhood home of Queen Anne Boleyn

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the 2nd wife of King Henry VIII and mother of Queen Elizabeth I, Hever Castle has much to explore. Dating back to the 13th century, Hever was magically restored by William Waldorf Astor in the early twentieth century.  Here you’ll see panelled rooms, tapestries and a fine collection of Tudor portraits.

Inside the castle is full of sumptuous furnishings, with so much to see, you’ll want to allow time to appreciate it to the full.  Then there are the gardens, complete with an extravagant topiary chess set.  Smell something wonderful?  That’s the perfume of more than 4,000 rose bushes.  Oh, an there’s an enormous lake, fountains and a rhododendron walk.  For those of you curious to see more, you’ll find plenty of period cottages in the grounds.  If you are visiting in the summer, don’t forget to check out the jousting tournaments.

“Hever Castle is what every child wants a castle to be: crenellated, moated and haunted.” Hever Castle’s website

Fascinated by this place?  You can read the scary tale of Anne Boleyn’s haunted carriage returning to Great Wood in Blickling here.

Bodiam Castle: East Sussex

Around 60 miles from central London.  Train from London Charing Cross to Robertsbridge then taxi (pre-book, no rank).  Seasonal steam railway from Tenterden , and seasonal passenger ferry from Newenden Bridge . 

Castles Near London: Bodiam Castle, East Sussex

If you were looking to describe a castle to a visitor from another planet, Bodiam would be a fantastic example.  A fourteenth century moated castle complete with plenty of turrets, Bodiam Castle is managed by the National Trust.

Here you can climb the postern tower via its steep spiral staircase for a magnificent view.  The north-west tower gives you the opportunity to walk the battlements from the gatehouse.  As you would expect, you’ll find places to eat here and there are also picnic benches.  There’s a second hand bookshop, perfect for a read in the sun, looking up to admire the gorgeous view.  And don’t forget to keep an eye on the special events.  Currently I can see a Valentine’s dinner with a difference and a World Book Day celebration.

Hastings Castle, Sussex

Two hours forty minutes by car, or slightly less by train from London St Pancras, London Bridge or London Cannon Street

Castles Near London, Hastings, East Sussex

The next one of our castles near London is another ruin.  As you can see from the picture, William of Normandy chose a great spot to build this castle, shortly after landing in England in 1066.  And if 1066 sounds familiar, it should.  It’s the date of the Battle of Hastings, in which William was victorious.  In fact the first castle was prefabricated from wood, surely one of the earliest prefab building projects.  The original motte and bailey castle was then rebuilt in stone.

What followed was a fascinating tale of destruction and rebuilding.  Successive kings and lords worried the castle would fall into French hands and so demolished it, while others rebuilt it for defence.  Savage storms in the 13th century saw parts of the castle fall into the sea and the harbour was destroyed.  At that time, there was no further military need for the castle.

The castle site was a great choice, being virtually unassailable on three sides.  Just under half the fortification remains now.  You can also hear the 1066 Story about the Battle of Hastings on the castle site.

Camber Castle, Sussex

Two and a half hours from central London by car, or from London St Pancras to Rye in one hour ten minutes plus a mile walk across countryside. 

Castles Near London, Camber Castle near Rye, Sussex

The next one of our castles near London was built by King Henry VIII, Camber Castle lies between Rye and Winchelsea.  This was an artillery castle designed to protect the port of Rye against French attack.  The castle consists of a series of circles: a circular keep, four circular bastions designed to protect the curtain wall and a further circular entrance bastion.  Originally equipped with 28 brass and artillery guns, the defensive duties of the castle were short-lived.  The silting up of Rye harbour meant that it could not be used.  .

Now you can visit the castle by guided tour.  You’ll be following in the footsteps of 18th and 19th century picnickers, and also the artist Turner, who painted the castle.  You can find the opening times here at the English Heritage Website .

Berkhamsted Castle

One and a half hours by car from central London or 40 minutes by train from London Euston.  

Castles near London - moat and ruins of Berkhamsted Castle, Hertfordshire

Open daily and with free entry, Berkhamsted Castle is managed by English Heritage.  This one of our castles near London is really close to the train station, making it both easily accessible and a highlight of the train journey between Birmingham and London.  This is another castle of the Norman Conquest, built to control the key route between London and the English Midlands.  Robert of Mortain, William the Conqueror’s half brother, was partly responsible for its construction, and later lived there.  Self-build, Norman-style.

Later kings granted the castle to their chancellors.  It was expanded in the twelfth century, probably by Thomas Becket.  Like most castles, it was subject to regular attacks, captures and recaptures.  One successful attack featured Prince Louis, the future Louis VIII.  He attacked with siege engines – designed to break down the castle doors –  for twenty days before the garrison surrendered.

By the mid 16th century, the castle was in ruins, and stone was taken to help construct buildings in the town.  The railway that now runs past the site was instrumental in its future demise, with stone being taken to aid its construction in the 1830s.  For this reason, Berkhamsted Castle became the first building to receive statutory protection from Parliament as an ancient monument.

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Britain's 17 Most Amazing Castles You Must Visit - Warwick Castle

Two and a half hours by car or one hour and forty minutes by train from London Marylebone, followed by a short walk. 

Although situated on the edge of the Midlands, Warwick is actually much quicker to reach from London than many of the castles on the Kent and Sussex coasts. One of England;s most popular tourist attractions, Warwick Castle is an experience packed with plenty to see and do.  Also developed from a wooden fort originally built by William the Conqueror, it was later rebuilt in stone.  New fortifications were added during the Hundred Years War.  It was used as a stronghold until the 17th century, then granted to Sir Fulke Greville, who transformed it into a country house.  The steep cliff to the River Avon helped to make the castle a well-defended fortification.

Today, Warwick Castle is a riot of activity.  If you ever wanted to stay in a castle , you have a choice of glamping, lodges and the glorious tower apartments here.  Take a history tour, see the magnificent Great Hall and staterooms or view the mighty trebuchet seige machine.  You can even learn what it takes to be a dragon or see jousting and other events.  In short, Warwick Castle is a great balance of history and entertainment.

Read more:  21 Fascinating Things To Do In Warwickshire

Scotney Castle, Kent

Just under an hour and a half by car from central London, and three miles from Royal Tunbridge Wells.  Train takes 45 minutes from London Bridge, then taxi.  

Castles Near London: Scotney Castle, Kent

Nestled in Kent, the garden of England, Scotney Castle is a 14th century moated beauty surrounded by 770 acres of woodland. The gardens here are an example of the Picturesque style (based on an aesthetic ideal).  At the centre of the gardens, you’ll find Scotney Old Castle, the ruins of a medieval moated manor house.  It’s on an island in a small lake, which is sure to induce feelings of castle-living envy.  The garden is full of seasonal delights from rhododendrons and azaleas in spring to wisteria and roses in summer.

There’s an incredible amount to see at Scotney, from the gardens and woodland to Scotney New Castle.  Built between 1835-1843, it was designed by Anthony Salvin.  It’s an early example of the Tudor Revival style of nineteenth century England.  Following the death of its last resident, Elizabeth Hussey in 2006, it was opened to the public in 2007.  It is, as the National Trust describes it, “as if Betty had just popped out to the shops”.

Dover Castle, Kent

One and three quarter hours drive from central London, and just under two hours by rail from Leicester Square or Charing Cross. 

Castles Near London: Dover Castle, Kent

This is a castle that means business.  Perched in a commanding strategic position, Dover Castle has been described as the key to England.  There has been a fortress here since the eleventh century.  This medieval castle is the largest in England, and includes one of Dover’s two Roman lighthouses (one of only three remaining in the world).

Just stand at the foot of the castle and look upwards.  Here you can imagine so much of its history.  What would it be like to be safe within the fortification, or responsible for storming it?  William the Conqueror originally took the castle by setting it on fire.  He then rebuilt it, but its current shape is dominated by the great keep built by King Henry II.  It cost him £6,500 of his £10,000 budget for the year, so you can see the importance of the site.

Now you can see everything from the underground hospital of World War II to the Great Tower and the medieval tunnels.  There’s even an excape room for puzzle-solving groups.

Rochester Castle,Kent

An hour from central London by car or around the same time by train from London Victoria or London St Pancras.  

Castles Near London: Rochester Castle, Kent

This castle was built to defend the road to London – Watling Street –  at a strategic crossing of the River Medway.  Managed by English Heritage and Medway Council, Rochester Castle has a history of attack and rebuilding making it a microcosm of English history.  You can still see the Norman tower and keep built by the Archbishop of Canterbury in 1127.  There are epic tales of the castle, including the role played by the fat of 40 pigs.  This was used by King John to fire a mine under the keep in order to evict rebel barons.  They still had to be starved out after resisting for two months.

“Send to us with all speed by day and night forty of the fattest pigs of the sort least good for eating to bring fire beneath the tower” King John

Rochester Castle has been a tourist attraction since the 17th century and mentioned in the diaries of Samuel Peyps.  You can find out more about the castle and its excellent programme for children here.

Leeds Castle, Kent

An hour and a quarter drive from central London or around two hours by train from London Victoria or London St Pancras

Castles Near London: Leeds Castle, Kent

“The loveliest castle in the world” is how Leeds Castle ‘s own website describes this site.  And to be honest, you wouldn’t want to argue too much.  This is an atmospheric castle with plenty to see and do during your visit.  Situated not in Leeds in Yorkshire, but five miles from Maidstone, lovely Leeds Castle can be seen perched high and glorious above the M2 motorway as you head to the coast.

There’s been a castle here since 1119.  And it’s a beautiful position for a castle too: set on islands in a lake formed by the River Len.  It was a military stronghold in the Norman invasion, a favourite residence of King Edward I, and later a home for Catherine of Aragon, first bride of King Henry VIII.  The present structure dates mostly from the 19th century.

Nearly half a million people visit Leeds Castle each year to see the castle, the famous maze with its shell grotto and the grounds.  With the castle having been home to six medieval queens, the last private owner Lady Baillie sought to share the heritage of the state rooms.  There are now fascinating exhibitions, including one showing the history of dog collars a hat-tip to the enduring role of canines in our daily lives.  Don’t forget to call in at the Gatehouse for 900 years of history.    If the castle seems familiar, you may have seen its splendors when it played Chalfont in the legendary Ealing comedy Kind Hearts And Coronets.

Arundel Castle, West Sussex

Two hours by car from central London, or around one and a half hours by train from London Victoria.

Castles Near London: Arundel Castle, Sussex

Established by Roger de Montgomery on Christmas Day 1067 – surely a more momentous task than roasting a few chestnuts –  Arundel is a fully restored medieval castle.  It has been the home of the family of the Duke of Norfolk for over 400 years.  You can visit Arundel Castle between April and November.

The castle was beseiged twice during the first English Civil War, once by Royalists and once by Parliamentarians.  That’s quite some bad luck.  The house was almost completely rebuilt between 1870-1890, and is now considered to be a magnificent example of Gothic architecture from Victorian England.  You’ll see plenty of wood paneling, sumptuous furnishings and elegant gardens.

The castle hosts a wide variety of history days, medieval jousting and even events such as car enthusiasts’ days and open air theatre.

Windsor Castle, Berkshire

Around an hour by road from central London, or approximately the same time by rail from London Charing Cross

Castles Near London: Windsor Castle

One of the Queen’s Royal Residences, Windsor Castle is home to more than 900 years of crown history.  It’s definitely one of the most famous castles near London.  Magnificently approached by the Long Walk, which I urge you to take if you have the time, the castle was originally built to assert Norman dominance.  It also watched over an important part of the River Thames.

The original castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century.  It has been a royal residence since the time of King Henry I, and is the longest occupied royal palace in Europe.  The elegant state rooms have received copious praise:

“A superb and unrivalled sequence of rooms widely regarded as the finest and most complete expression of later Georgian taste.” Hugh Roberts, Art Historian

On your visit you can see the state rooms, the ceremonial route through the state apartments, Queen Mary’s dolls’ house, St George’s Chapel and take a tour of the precincts.  It’s also possible to see the Changing of the Guard.  This normally takes place – including a march through Windsor town – at 11am on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Castles Near London And Beyond

With over 1500 castles to visit in England alone, it’s not difficult to work a castle-visiting day into your itinerary.  These castles near London have been chosen to help minimise the travel time if you are based in the capital.   But we’ve traveled further in search of more castles, and you can find them here:

Britain’s 17 Most Amazing Castles You Must Visit

48 hours in the Welsh Marches – Land of Conquests and Castles

If you like your buildings eccentric and frankly odd, please take a look at our collection of follies, quirky structures designed purely for pleasure:

Finding Follies: Traveling In Search Of England’s Eccentricities

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12 Epic Castles Near London To Visit

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England for Anglophiles

Epic England Travel

Best Castles in London and Castles Near London To Visit on A Day Trip

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When visiting England, castles in London and castles near London are high on many people’s bucket lists. Although there are not that many castles of London, there are plenty of royal palaces in London. Royal castles of London are the Tower of London and Windsor Castle. If you really want the turret and moat experience of c astles, Southeast England offer plenty of opportunities to slip back in time and history. For example, there’s the grandeur of Arundel Castle and Highclere Castle, the prettiness of Leeds Castle and Hever Castle or the atmospheric ruins of Pevensey Castle or Scotney Castle.

Castles in London

You would think there would be tons of castles in London, England. But famous castles in London are technically palaces – more on that below.

How many castles in London?

Well, technically there are only a handful of castles in London. When you think castles, London’s claim to fame is The Tower of London.

The other castles of London aren’t really the same level of grandeur.

  • There’s Severndroog Castle which is actually a folly located in Oxleas Wood near Greenwich in South London. It’s got far-reaching views from the top.
  • There’s also Bruce Castle , a manor house in North London’s Tottenham, which is named after Robert The Bruce (of Braveheart fame!). Bruce Castle is now a museum of local history.

opening of the tower of london in the morning

The Queen’s favourite home, Windsor Castle, is actually in nearby Berkshire so it shouldn’t be included among the royal castles in London.

Those are the 3 castles in London to visit. Only one of the castles in London deserves the name.

Of course, there are more castles and palaces in London to visit and visiting Royal London is definitely one of the must-see things on a trip to England .

How many palaces are in London? 

There are nearly a dozen royal palaces in London, including Buckingham Palace, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace, Lambeth Palace and St. James’s Palace.

Famous palaces in London include Buckingham Palace, the largest of the palaces in London with 775 rooms, and Kensington Palace, one of the best palaces to visit because of its cool exhibitions.

Buckingham Palace in London

So what’s the difference between a castle and a palace?

In addition to being a residence, a castle is fortified to be defended against attack. It’s got defensive features like thick walls, parapets, a gatehouse and a moat.

Palaces have no defensive structures and are really just built to show off wealth. The name comes from the enormous buildings on the Palatine Hill where Roman Empire’s elite had houses.

Of course, the terms have blurred lines. Bodiam Castle , one of the castles in Kent, had turrets, towers and even a moat just to make it look impressive. Its defensive mechanisms could have been easily breached though. For example, Bodiam’s moat is only 5 feet deep and easily crossed. On the other hand, the moat creates a beautiful reflecting pool for the castle’s walls.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is more than a famous castle. It’s also a fortress, a royal palace, and a prison. It’s home to the famous Beefeaters , who lead informative and amusing tours when you visit. The castle grounds include the White Tower with its impressive display of historic armor. And the Crown Jewels of the monarchy are kept at the Tower of London. You can gaze on bejeweled crowns and other jewelry that contains in all more than 24,000 sparkling gemstones. This castle on the north bank of the Thames dates to 1078. Henry III and Edward I expanded the castle, adding towers and constructing a large moat for protection. Kings and queens lived in the White Tower for centuries. And those who fell out of favor found themselves locked in the prison just across the walkway. The most well-known prisoner was Anne Boleyn, one of the wives of Henry VIII. She lost her head on the grounds of the castle and was buried nearby. One oddity of the Tower of London is the presence of seven ravens . They sit, having clipped wings, at various places throughout the grounds. The legend is that if all the ravens die, the kingdom will fall. When you visit the Tower of London, you are immersed in hundreds of years of history. Enjoy learning about the quirky stories, the struggles, and the fascinating personalities who lived here. And see if you can spot all seven of the ravens!

– by Sharon Odegaard of ExploringRWorld

Royal Beefeater guard at the Tower of London

Castles Near London

These are the best castles around London to visit on a day trip from the capitol. You can either take an organised tour, or get to these castles by yourself. For example, Windsor Castle is the subject is accessible via an organised tour but also easy to reach via train from Paddington Station in about 40 minutes.

Other castles outside of London though are much easier to access by car.

We have been to many of these castles outside London ourselves but thought it would be useful to get a different perspective from other travel writers.

We tend to visit castles near London with kids and for events. For example, we have done a Halloween Tour of Bodiam Castle and Scotney Castle and both a triathlon and a Spring Fete at Hever Castle. The festive atmosphere at these special events tend to be different than visiting these castles around London during ordinary visits.

Arundel Castle

Arundel is one of the grand castles in southeast England. Owned by the Duke of Norfolk, Arundel Castle has seen over 1000 years of history. The castle is full of historic memorabilia and Old Masters that the dukes collected over the years.

You may remember the 3rd Duke of Norfolk was a key player in the Tudor drama involving the royal succession. Two of the 3rd Duke’s nieces married King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. His son, the 4th Duke, was beheaded for plotting to marry Mary, Queen of Scots.

It will take at least 2 hours to visit Arundel and its extensive gardens. The Gardens include a walled garden, a kitchen garden, a Tropical Garden and an English garden.

Arundel is open for visits all year except the winter months. Arundel Castle holds regular special events like an April Tulip Festival and Medieval Jousting Tournaments.

Arundel is one of the easier castles near London to visit by public transportation. There are regular trains directly from London Victoria to Arundel station which is a 10 minute walk from the castle.

A gate to Arundel Castle in West Sussex England

Berkhamsted Castle

Operated by the English Heritage, Berkhamsted Castle is an excellent example of an early Norman motte and bailey castle. Seeing it in ruins, you don’t realise that it was one of the royal castles of London.

Berkhamsted Castle was ordered built by William the Conqueror. He needed a stronghold to control the route to the North of England from Castles around London. Berkhamsted stayed as a royal palace until the time of Elizabeth I. Elizabeth leased it to a nobleman who decided to build another manor home. Berkhamsted Castle fell into ruin and its stone was looted for other building works.

In terms of castles, London is relatively close at only 30 miles away. Berkhamsted Castle is now in suburban commuter country. There are direct trains from London Euston to Berkhamsted that only take about 40 minutes. It’s open every day except for certain public holidays.

the ruins of Berkhamsted Castle near the Chilterns

Bodiam Castle

Set in the picturesque countryside of East Sussex, Bodiam Castle is one of the most iconic castles in Britain. The 14th century medieval castle looks akin to a sandcastle and was originally built to defend the surrounding area during the Hundred Year’s War. One of the most stunning features of Bodiam Castle is that it is surrounded by a moat. Although, those who know the history also know this moat was used as a sewage system for over thirty toilets! There is also an original portcullis – a heavy latticed grille – original to the castle, and one of the remaining few in all of Britain. While the interior of the castle is mostly in ruins, you’ll be able to get a glimpse of what life was like inside the castle during the 1300s. Climb up the spiral staircases of the towers and look out over the land where knights once stood while keeping an eye out for potential threats. After Bodiam was left in ruin for almost 200 years, it was eventually gifted to the National Trust in 1925. There is a beautiful tearoom on site to grab a scone and a pot of tea, or bring a picnic to enjoy after strolling the grounds and taking in this medieval splendour. – by Search Camp In Search of Sarah Historic Bodiam Castle in East Sussex , England

Chiddingstone Castle

Chiddingstone Castle is a charming historical house located in the heart of the Kent countryside. A visit to the castle is one of many wonderful things to do in Sevenoaks , and it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon. The Grade II house is home to an abundance of treasures. Visitors can explore the various collections of arts and antiquities curated by the collector Denys Eyre Bower. The collection includes pieces from all over the world and from various time periods and cultures, including Ancient Egyptian, Buddhist, Jacobite, Stuart, and Japanese. Once inside the castle, wander the Great Hall, marvel at the Library, discover the Victorian Kitchen, and learn about the history of the house in the Streatfeild Room. Outside of the castle itself, visitors can explore 35 acres of beautiful grounds. In springtime, the paths are lined with Japanese cherry blossom trees, with the delicate pink petals wavering in the wind. Pay a visit to the charming Victorian orangery, discover the Egyptian-inspired grass maze, and take in the spectacular views across Greensand Ridge. There are also a number of beautiful walks to enjoy in the surrounding area. Once you’re done exploring, stop by the castle’s tearoom for a well-earnt cuppa and piece of homemade cake.

By Jessie Moore from Pocket Wanderings

chiddingstone Castle with daffodils in front

Colchester Castle

Colchester Castle is in Colchester, Essex. Colchester is the oldest recorded town in the UK and for a short time it was even the capital of Roman Britain. The current castle is around 300 years old and is the largest Norman Keep in Europe. However it was built on the base of a Roman temple, which dates back to 50A.D.! The main part of the castle is home to a museum. It has hands-on exhibits, activities and displays, documenting life in Essex spanning 2000 years of history. For an additional fee, visitors can take a guided tour going up onto the roof of the castle and down into the underground vaults, where the original Roman wall can be seen. On the roof, there is a tree that signifies the end of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Castle Park is also lovely to wander around. There is plenty of open space, with playground areas, walking trails, a mini golf course and a small boating lake. The park often hosts various events throughout the year, such as music events and food and drink festivals. The castle is located at the bottom of Colchester High Street, so it’s within walking distance of transport links and other things to do in Colchester . – by Kylie Neuhaus of Essex Explored

Colchester Castle in Essex England

Dover Castle

Dover Castle was founded in the 11th century and still stands tall on the White Cliffs of Kent today. It’s been described as the “Key to England” owing to its strategic defensive position. It’s also been called the largest castle in England, although Windsor Castle claims the same title. Regardless, Dover Castle is one of the best places to visit in Kent . Size does matter when it comes to planning a trip to the castle however. Dover Castle is so big that you will need a full day to explore it in full, especially if you opt to take one of the guided tours available. You can also choose to discover the castle solo and there’s plenty to see including underground tunnels used during the WWII and the Great Tower that was built by Henry II. One of the most popular rooms in the castle is The Annexe, the underground hospital that was established during the war to treat injured soldiers. Make sure to visit the Escape Room, inspired by the castle’s real life Cold War History. Family and friends have to work together to solve puzzles, crack codes and reach the safety of the bunker in time. At various times during the year the castle hosts events with characters dressed from the castle’s history, for example wartime figures that you need to help in order for them to succeed in a secret mission.

– by Katja Gaskell of Globetotting

Dover Castle - a medieval fortress in United Kingdom, county of Kent.

Herstmonceaux Castle

Nestled in the historic region of East Sussex, Herstmonceux Castle is certainly a castle that is worth discovering. This unique red brick castle – complete with moat – was built back in the 15th century. Interestingly, the castle was intended as a manor residence and not for battle! To this day, Herstmonceux is considered one of the most significant brick structures still standing across England. Despite never seeing any actual battles, the castle fell into ruin due to neglect. Fortunately, it has been restored and is open to curious visitors. The castle sits on a very large, very rural estate which was also the home of The Royal Greenwich Observatory. This designation lasted until the 1970s – but there are still white domed telescopes that dot the treeline of the property. Many are still used for observation to this day. Herstmonceux Castle makes a nice day trip from London because there are plenty of things to do. Aside from doing a castle interior tour to admire the original woodworking and battlements, visitors can wander the Elizabethan gardens at the rear. There are also walking trails that cross the estate – and an English tearoom onsite if you’re in need of a refreshment.

– by Eric of Penguin and Pia

Herstmonceaux Castle in East Sussex

Hever Castle

Hever Castle is one of the most beautiful historical castles in Kent. It features a moat, a gatehouse and a walled bailey. This is where Anne Boleyn spent her childhood, before being sent to France to serve at the court of the French Queen. The castle is one of the best examples of Tudor architecture in England. The oldest part of the castle are the wooden beams in Henry VIII’s bedchamber, which are the original ones that were used when the castle was built, in the 13th century. Visiting Hever Castle is like stepping back in time. Whilst some of the ground floor rooms have been renovated by the previous owners of the castle, the upstairs remains unchanged. Hanging on the dining hall is the original lock that Henry VIII used to travel with, to protect himself. He used to be obsessed that someone will assassinate him whilst he slept, so every evening he would lock his bedchamber before going to bed. At Hever Castle you can also admire one of the most impressive collections of Tudor portraits, including all five of Henry VIII’s wives. The gardens at Hever Castle are spectacular as well. There are mazes, flower gardens, Italian landscaped areas and a lake to paddle on. You can spend the entire day here without managing to see all the estate’s grounds.

– by Joanna Davis at The World In My Pocket

Hever Castle viewed from the garden

Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle is widely known internationally as the setting for the television and film phenomena, Downtown Abbey.

Owned by the Earls of Canarvon, Highclere Castle started as a manor house in the 17th century. In the late 18th century, the Canarvons called in the same architect who built the Houses of Westminster to jazz up the family home. The Victorian facade created the castle effect with towers and turrets.

So technically, Highclere Castle is not a “real” castle. The castle facade is merely decorative and serves no defensive purposes. But it looks good and is very much a flaunting of wealth by the Victorians!

The gardens are designed by the famous English landscape architect, Capability Brown. The estate runs to about 5000 acres.

Highclere Castle and it’s gardens are open to the public regularly. The current Earl of Canarvon and his family still live on the premises.

In addition to guided tours of the house, another cool thing to see is the Egyptian collection in the basement. One of the former Earls of Canarvon funded Howard Carter’s expedition in Egypt that found King Tut’s tomb. There aren’t that many castles in southeast England with a King Tut connection!

Highclere Castle near London

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle in Kent has been named the loveliest castle in the world and is one of the UK’s top attractions. The castle takes on a fairy tale appearance with its well-maintained structure surrounded by a moat and beautifully kept gardens. It was built in 1119, and despite not seeing much battle action, there is not much left of the original structure. What you see today is mainly thanks to King Henry VIII who lived there with Catherine of Aragon, his first wife and also thanks to Sir Richard Smythe. Being one of the most popular castles in England, there is always plenty going on at Leeds Castle. The highlight of your visit will be the castle itself but make sure to spare some time to visit the grounds. There is a challenging maze, a falconry display and archery lessons and during certain times of the year, there are special events such as firework displays, open air cinema and special concerts. If you are visiting Leeds Castle with kids, there are a couple of fantastic play areas modelled on the castle – one for 6 years and under and the other for 6 – 14-year-olds.

– by Jacquie Hale of Flashpacking Family

Leeds Castle at sunset

Pevensey Castle

One of the oldest castles in south east England, Pevensey Castle is more than 16 centuries old.

Pevensey Castle started out as a Roman fort before being requisitioned by William the Conqueror. William the Conqueror landed nearby and used Pevensey to protect his rear flank when he marched forward. Pevensey last served as a garrison for soldiers during World War 2 to defend against any German invasion across the English Channel.

Run by English Heritage, Pevensey Castle now lies in ruins. The ruins tell of its once grand presence though. For example, Pevensey’s curtain walls are an impressive relic of Roman times which were just added onto by the Normans.

Pevensey is one of the harder castles outside London to reach by public transport. There is a direct train from London Victoria to Pevensey and Westham that takes 2 hours. Pevensey is a mile from the train station.

The ruins of Pevensey Castle

Sissinghurst Castle

There are many romantic castles in Kent England – such as Scotney Castle and Leeds Castle. One of the most romantic castles Southeast England offers though is Sissinghurst Castle.

Sissinghurst Castle was the refuge of Vita Sackville-West and her husband, Harold Nicolson, both of whom were authors. Vita Sackville-Hurst had a torrid affair with fellow author Virginia Woolf (check out their story in the 2018 movie Vita & Virginia).

Sissinghurst Castle probably reached its historic zenith during Tudor times when it held 6000 French prisoner. In the 19th century, Sissinghurst was used as a poor house where able-bodied men farmed the land in exchange for room and board. Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson bought it in the 1930s.

At Sissinghurst Castle, Harold Nicolson did the architectural landscaping and Vita Sackville-West did the planting. They took the ruins of Sissinghurst Castle and created a marvellous array of indoor and outdoor rooms that blend into each other.

Sissinghurst Castle is another castle outside London that is hard to reach by public transport. There are regular trains from London Bridge station to Staplehurst that takes a little less than an hour. Sissinghurst Castle is another 5 miles from Staplehurst station though. You will need to order a taxi in advance to take you to the castle.

ruins of sissinghurst castle

Scotney Castle

Scotney Castle is one of the most romantic-looking castles in England and is maintained by the National Trust. It is nestled in the glorious countryside of Kent and offers visitors an enchanting look at the 14th century moated castle and Victorian country mansion alongside beautiful planted and woodland gardens. The Hussey family who were the last owners of the estate transformed Scotney castle into the romantic ruins that we see today. The family wanted a focal point to view from their newly built manor house sitting on the hill above the old castle. The result is beautiful with ivy climbing over stone ruins, tiny doors leading inside the castle and a beautiful duck pond complete with flowering lilies surrounding the building. The castle also has a secret hiding place called a “priest hole”. During the persecution of the Catholic church in England during the 16th century, these hiding places were a safe sanctuary for priests. One was in hiding in Scotney castle for 7 years during the uprising! The castle grounds are planted with beautiful flowers attracting plenty of wildlife and the quarry area highlights more tropical planting. This is also where you can spot the imprint of a dinosaur’s footprint dating back to the Jurassic period. Other attractions at Scotney Castle include tearooms and a gift/plant shop. Entry is free for National Trust members or £8 for adults/£4 for children.

– by Angela Price of Where Angie Wanders

Scotney Castle Moat

Walmer Castle

Located on the shore in the South East coast of Kent in England, Walmer Castle is one of England’s finest Tudor castles. It is just a 15-minute drive from Dover and a 30-minute drive from Canterbury in Kent. The best way to see this castle is to include it as part of a road-trip exploring Kent . Walmer castle was once a Tudor artillery fortress which later became the stately home of the Lord Wardens of the Cinque Ports including the Duke of Wellington. Henry VIII built this fortress along with the neighboring Deal castle to protect the coastline from invasion. During WW2 Churchill used this castle to keep an eye on France. The castle is best explored using the multimedia guide. After touring the rooms, visitors can go out into the terrace which has several impressive cannons pointing out towards the sea. Panoramic views of the sea can be enjoyed from here. The eight acres of award-winning castle gardens include Broadwalk garden – a colorful, herbaceous and hedged garden, and Queen mother’s garden – a peaceful walled garden designed for the queen mother. In addition, the wooded walk has now been extended providing natural play areas for children. There is a lovely tea-room that serves food cooked using produce from the kitchen gardens. The Walmer Castle and gardens is the perfect place to enjoy history, beauty and some good family time in Kent.

– by Jan Banerjee of Leisurely Drives

Walmer Castle in England

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is definitely one of the most significant and beautiful castles in England as it is a royal residence and has over 1,000 years of history. The castle was built in the 11th century and was massively rebuilt in 1660 by Charles II — he added a lot of beautiful Baroque elements to it. During WWII, the royal family also used this castle as a refuge. Today, Windsor Castle is a very popular tourist attraction especially given its proximity to London, and it is also Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite weekend home. In addition to that, it is where state visits are hosted, and also where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married in 2018. Today, you can visit Windsor Castle for a £23.50 admission fee and must book your visit online in advance. While this price is steep, it is totally worth it as the premises are simply beautiful. You’ll get a 30-minute tour of the Castle Precincts, an audio tour narrated by Prince Charles (the Prince of Wales), and can also watch the Changing of the Guard at the castle. The architecture inside the premises is simply stunning, so be sure to bring good photography gear, such as some great lenses for Nikon D3100 , to best capture the postcard-worthy views!

– by Jiayi Wang of The Diary of a Nomad

Windsor Castle

Map of Castles (London and Nearby)

Map of castles in London and castles near London that will help with trip planning.

map of castles in London and castles near London

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Historic Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, England

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Last Updated on March 11, 2023 by Louise

London is lucky to have many beautiful castles (and palaces) which are just a train ride away.

The castles are some of the most stunning in England and are full of fascinating things to see and do. Many of the castles host themed events and activities throughout the year, so it’s well worth checking out their websites to see what’s going on.

Some of the castles are more easily reached than others but we’ve detailed exactly how to get there so you can make a decision as to which ones to see.

So what’s stopping you? Book your ticket, hop on a train and discover these 10 amazing castles on London’s doorstep.

Windsor Castle

Take the train from London Paddington (35 minutes) or from London Waterloo (55 minutes)

visit castle near london

Windsor Castle is the centrepiece in the quaint and historic town of Windsor. Originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has been a royal residence for over 900 years. The Queen used to spend several weekends here a year, hosting state dinners and important events.

Many events have taken place here over the years, from the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 to the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018!

It’s home to St. George’s Chapel, where the Queen has been laid to rest and the State Apartments, which are used for official state occasions.

During the summer months, the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, takes place daily and on alternate days during the winter.

Make sure to see the Queen Mary’s Doll House which is fascinating whether a young person or an adult.

There are two ways from get to Windsor Castle from London by train:

1.) Take the train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central – you will need to make a very easy train change at Slough. (approx 35 minutes.) Windsor & Eton Central Station is located just below the castle walls.

2.) Take the train from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station (approx 55 minutes). The station is a 5 minutes walk from Windsor Castle. Bear in mind that this walk involves a very steep climb up a hill.

Hever Castle

Take the train from London Bridge (40 minutes) + short taxi ride.

visit castle near london

Historic Hever castle was built in the 13th century as a fortified manor house and converted into a castle in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Anne Boleyn, who was the second wife of King Henry VIII, lived at the castle as a child, and it is believed that Henry VIII visited her there before they were married. It was also the childhood home of Anne’s daughter, Queen Elizabeth I.

Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, which includes rooms decorated in the Tudor style, including Anne Boleyn’s bedroom and a chapel where Henry VIII is said to have worshipped.

Beautifully manicured gardens are not to be missed. They include an Italian garden, a rose garden, and a Tudor garden. Numerous events take place here throughout the year, including jousting tournaments, outdoor theatre performances, and Christmas markets.

How to get to Hever Castle by train

Trains run from London Victoria and London Bridge (via Oxted or East Croydon) to Edenbridge Town Station. Then take a taxi for three miles to the castle.  You will need to phone and book a taxi in advance as there are no taxis waiting at the station. Check out the Hever Castle website for details on how to get there and taxi firms.

Highclere Castle

Take the train from London Paddington (40 minutes) + 15 minute taxi ride.

visit castle near london

Fans of Downtown Abbey, must visit Highclere Castle . This impressive country house is located in Hampshire, England.

First built in the late 17th century, it was later remodeled in Victorian Gothic style. The castle features numerous staterooms, bedrooms, and a library. There’s also collections of art, furniture, and historical artifacts. As well as the beautiful castle, there are extensive gardens, woodland walks and a lake.

In addition to being home to the Carnarvon family for over 300 years, Highclere Castle was used as a hospital during World War I, and training centre for the British Secret Service during World War II.

The castle is only open on certain dates during the summer months, so check out the website to see when you can go inside. The grounds are open all year round.

How to get to Highclere by train

It’s an easy journey from London Paddington, with trains running directly to Newbury station. Then it’s just a 15-minute taxi to the castle. According to the Highclere website , taxis can be found outside the station but you will need to book a return taxi to take you back for your return train.

Blenheim Palace

Take the train from London Marylebone by train (1 hour 15 minutes) + bus journey (23 minutes)

visit castle near london

Blenheim Palace isn’t a castle but it’s got a place on this list as it’s a beautiful and historic residence. The stunning stately home is located in Oxfordshire, England. It was built in the early 18th century as a gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill, the first Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his military victories against France.

It has a rich history, and has been home to the Churchill family for over 300 years. Sir Winston Churchill, was born at the palace in 1874. You can even take a look in the bedroom where he was born.

Designed in the English Baroque style by architect Sir John Vanbrugh, Blenheim Palace is considered one of the finest examples of this style in England. You can see all the stunning interiors, including the Long Library, which is one of the largest private libraries in Europe, and the State Rooms, which are used for official receptions and events.

There’s so much to do at Blenheim. Amazing gardens and parklands have attractions for kids like a small children’s train and the Marlborough maze. Formal gardens include the Water Terraces, the Italian Garden, and the Rose Garden, while the parkland features miles of gorgeous walking trails, lakes, and woodlands.

The Palace also hosts a range of events including guided tours, outdoor concerts, and seasonal festivals.

How to Get To Bleinham Palace by train. 

Take the train from London Marylebone to Oxford Parkway (then connect to Blenheim by Bus 7 – this route may be changing from March 5th 2023 – so double check). You can get 30% off Palace, Park & Garden tickets if you arrive by train – use the code GREEN30 on the Blenheim Palace website at checkout. Find out more on how to get to Bleinham Palace

Dover Castle

Take the train from London St Pancras International or London Victoria (1 hour) + 5 minute bus journey (or 26 minute walk)

visit castle near london

Dover Castle is a medieval fortress with a long, rich history. It was a strategic defensive site for over 2,000 years.

Originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, the castle was later expanded and modified over the centuries to strengthen its defences. It played a key role in numerous historical events, including the Napoleonic Wars and World War II.

Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, including the Great Tower, the medieval palace, and the Roman pharos, which is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world.

The impressive defensive features, including the iconic White Cliffs, form a natural barrier against sea-borne attacks.

Excitingly, the castle also has extensive network of tunnels and underground chambers, including Secret Wartime Tunnels. These were used as a military command centre during World War II. You can explore the tunnels and experience what life was like for soldiers and civilians during times of war.

How to Get To Dover Castle by train

Take the train from London St Pancras International or London Victoria to Dover Priory station. From Dover Priory it’s roughly a 26-minute walk to the castle. You can also get the number 93 bus from Priory Street (Stop E) heading towards Deal, which will take you to Dover Castle in five minutes. From there it’s a two-minute walk to the castle.

Hampton Court Palace

Take the train from London Waterloo (30 minutes with stops at Vauxhall, Clapham Junction, Earlsfield, Wimbledon, Raynes Park and New Maldon on the way) + 5 minute walk. 

visit castle near london

Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames in southwest London. Again it’s not a castle, but if you love visiting castles, you will probably enjoy visiting Hampton Court too.

The palace was originally built in the early 16th century for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, who was a close advisor to King Henry VIII.

After Wolsey’s fall from favour, the palace was acquired by King Henry VIII, who expanded and renovated it extensively over the course of his reign. It then became one of the principal residences of the Tudor monarchs and played a significant role in English history.

Today, Hampton Court Palace is open to the public as a museum and tourist attraction, and is known for its rich history and impressive architecture. The palace’s design features a range of historic architectural styles, including Tudor, Baroque, and Georgian.

Visitors can explore the palace’s interior, which features a range of historic rooms and exhibits, and includes the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal, and the King’s Apartments, which were used by King Henry VIII and his wives. The palace’s collections also include artwork, furniture, and other objects of historical significance.

In addition to its museum exhibits, Hampton Court Palace also offers a variety of outdoor activities and events, including  costumed re-enactments and it’s famous Garden festival . With over 60 acres of landscaped gardens, including the famous maze and the Great Vine, (the largest grapevine in the world) – the palace grounds are not to be missed.

How to get to Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace train station is in zone 6 so you can use an oyster card to get here. National Rail train services run from London Waterloo to Hampton Court Station every 30 minutes. The train calls at Vauxhall, Clapham Junction, Earlsfield, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, New Maldon, Berrylands, Surbiton, Thames Ditton and Hampton Court. The station is a 5 minute walk from the Palace.

Leeds Castle

Take the train from London Victoria (1 hour 10 minutes)  + shuttle bus (operates in the summer only)

visit castle near london

This stunning castle in Kent, is situated on an island in the middle of a lake, surrounded by gorgeous gardens and parkland. It was built in the 12th century as a Norman stronghold, and was later used as a royal palace by King Edward I and his queen, Eleanor of Castile. Over the centuries, the castle has been owned by numerous prominent families, including the de Crevecoeur, Culpeper, and Fairfax families.

Inside the castle, the banquet hall, library, and bedrooms have all been beautifully restored and furnished with period pieces. They are wonderful to look around.

Visitors will love the stunning Castle gardens, the Woodland Walk, as well as a number of lakes and water features. There’s also a maze and an aviary.

How to get to Leeds Castle

Take the train from London Victoria to Bearstead station. In the summer months you can get a shuttle bus from Bearstead station to Leeds Castle. Find out more here.

Colchester Castle

Take the train from Liverpool Street Station (1 hour) + 400 yards walk. 

visit castle near london

William the Conqueror constructed Colchester Castle in the 11th century and it was one of the first stone castles to be built in England.

The castle has had many interesting roles. Not only has it served as a royal residence, it’s been a military fortress, and a prison!

Today, Colchester Castle is open to the public as a museum. Highlights include the Roman vaults, the Norman keep, and the Victorian galleries. The castle’s collections include Roman artifacts, medieval objects, and paintings, as well as interactive exhibits and multimedia displays.

How to get to Colchester Castle

Take the train from London Liverpool Street station to Colchester Town station (about 1 hour). The Castle is about 400yds from the station.

Arundel Castle

Take the train from London Victoria (1 hour and 45 minutes) + 10 minute walk

visit castle near london

Built in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, the castle was later owned by the powerful Fitzalan family, who were the Earls of Arundel. In the 16th century, it was seized by the Crown after the Fitzalans fell out of favour and was eventually sold to Thomas Howard, the 4th Duke of Norfolk, in 1660.

Must sees inside the castle include the Great Hall, and the State Dining Room. There is also the library, which houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts. The castle’s collections include artwork, armour, and furniture from various periods in its history.

With over 40 acres of landscaped gardens, water features, and woodland trails, the grounds are also a popular attraction. Discover a Victorian walled garden, a medieval motte and bailey, and a collection of rare and exotic plants.

How to Get to Arundel Castle

Take the train from London Victoria to Arundel Station. The castle is about a 10 minute walk from the station.

Warwick Castle

Take the train from London Marylebone (1 hour and 45 minutes) + 15 minute walk. 

visit castle near london

Warwick Castle is a medieval castle located in Warwick, England. It was originally built in 1068 by William the Conqueror as a defensive stronghold to protect against rebellion and invasion.

Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and renovated by a series of owners, including the de Beauchamp and Neville families, who were powerful English nobles during the Middle Ages. During this time, the castle played a significant role in English history, including the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War.

Today, Warwick Castle is as a themed tourist attraction. It is known for its rich history and impressive architecture. The castle’s design features a range of historic architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic, and Renaissance.

Families and kids love it here as there is lots going on including mazes, archery, jousting tournaments and falconry displays.

It’s well worth exploring the castle’s interior, which features a range of historic rooms and exhibits, including the Great Hall, the State Rooms. The Dungeon Experience with live actors and special effects is also not to be missed. There are also collections of armour, weaponry, and other objects of historical significance.

In addition to its museum exhibits, Warwick Castle also offers a range of outdoor events. It’s worth checking the website to see what’s on when you go. The castle’s surrounding grounds and gardens are also a popular attraction, with scenic walks, picnic areas, and stunning views of the castle and the nearby River Avon.

How to get to Warwick Castle by train

Take the train from London Marylebone to Warwick station. The castle is about a mile from the station, so well within walking distance.

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  • 10 Historically Significant Castles Near London You Must Visit When Exploring The City

Even though you can find thousands of castles all around the world but none of them can be compared to the alluring castles built by the British. The castles near London, England provide a gateway to the past culture and heritage of the British empire. The oldest castles near London , England were constructed during the era of Normans to protect the British empire from naval invaders.

Later, the British also made many castles further inland that were not only meant to serve as fortification but also as a home for the Royals. Since the very beginning, castles around London area were an integral part of the British culture. The construction techniques and architecture of London castles and palaces will take you back to the medieval ages. Those who are genuinely interested in English heritage and culture must visit these castles.

10 Awe-inspiring Castles Near London

Many castles today are either being restored or decaying slowly. Most of the castles are a few hours from London. There are a lot of castle hotels in the UK too for those who want to stay in a castle near London. Those who are looking for castles near London to stay can check into these hotels for a royal experience. Here are some of the castles to visit near London

1. Hever Castle

Hever Castle

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Only an hour’s drive from London is this seventeen centuries old castle. It has two moats and is heavily fortified. It was constructed back in 1270 and built to be a medieval castle. Later, it was passed on to one of the most influential families of that time – the Boleyn family and then became the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Anne Boleyn was one of the most colorful characters in England’s history. Boleyn was the second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. Throughout the castle, you can see portraits, furniture, tapestries, and more items that are neatly preserved. You can even be a witness to Tudor possession in the castle.

Moreover, in “The Book of Hours Room,” you can even see the books used and annotated by Anne Boleyn herself. William Waldorf Astor restored this castle in the early 20th century. William Waldorf Astor is also famous for Italian gardens in the premises, open for the public to enjoy.

Must Read: 10 Fun And Frolic Festivals In London Which Reflect The Country’s Celebrations At Its Best!

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2. Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle

Easily accessible from London Victoria, the Leeds Castle assures the perfect day out in Kent. Constructed back in the 13th century and flanked on all sides by 500 acres of open green parklands, this is one of the best castles to see near London. It became a home to the Royals back in 1270 and was so for over 300 years. Leeds Castle is the destination for various activities all around the year. You can get to see falconry displays, Segway tours, dog collar museum or enjoy the castle itself. This castle was once home to Catherine of Argon, the first wife of Henry VIII.

When you are visiting Leeds Castle, you must go into the maze. The experience would be incomplete unless you get lost in the maze and try to find a way out. Moreover, if you can finish the maze, you will be rewarded too. Furthermore, you can also spend time punting in the moat that surrounds the castle.

3. Dover Castle

Dover Castle

Dover Castle is one of the most iconic castles in England. Just a couple of hour’s drive from London, this castle was the commanding gateway to the English empire for over nine centuries. Hence, it is also known as “The Key to England.” Located close to the sea, it has always been an outstanding defensive structure to the empire. It was built at the site of a lighthouse back in the 1180s when Henry II was ruling. For a while, it was also used to provide residence to those who came to visit England. However, later, Dover Castle proved itself to be one of the most effective castles in protecting England from foreign enemies. Even during the Second World War, the manor came to good use. The tunnels that were constructed in the Napoleonic era were used to evacuate British soldier from Dunkirk.

Suggested Read: 10 Exquisite Places To Party On New Year In London And Welcome New Year With A Bash!

4. Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle

One of the most scenic castles to visit in London is the Highclere Castle. Reachable from London in less than a couple of hours, the Highclere Castle has been a famous filming location. Even the popular drama series – Downtown Abbey, was shot in this location. Julian Fellowes, the one who created the series had this castle in mind when he wrote the series. However, this Victorian-era castle has a lot more than you can see.

The 5,000-acre estate located in West Berkshire is one of the most famous castles near London to visit . This castle is still a residence and hence is only open to the public for a few days of the year. You will want to know if the castle is open before you visit it.

About a hundred years ago, this castle served as the seat of the 5th earl of Carnarvon – George Edward Stanhope Molyneux Herbert. He was famous for discovering the tomb of Tutankhamen back in 1922. When you’ll visit this castle, you can witness some unique artworks, Egyptian jewelry, and learn how George Herbert came to discover the tomb.

5. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle

When you are listing castles to visit in London, you just cannot leave out the Windsor Castle. It is one of the oldest medieval castles near London, UK . In fact, it is the largest and oldest fort in the whole world and a residence to the queen of England . This is a castle near London bridge and you can get there in about an hour and a half via car by taking the bridge. Attractions at the Windsor Castle include the State Apartments that are furnished with royal artworks, the doll’s house of Queen Mary, and even the private apartments of George IV. After exploring Windsor Castle, you can also spend a couple of hours walking by the Thames and taking a tour of the renowned Elton College.

Suggested Read: 8 Best London Mosques One Must Visit To Enjoy A Multi Cultural Vacay

6. Hastings Castle

Hastings Castle

Famous for “The 1066 Story,” the Hasting castle played a significant role during the battle of Hastings. The castle is now decaying and is being used to show a 20-minute audio-visual program about the origin and history of the castle. Built by the William of Normandy, the Hastings Castle was the first Norman castle to be built in the region.

The castle had a turbulent past and later on, King Henry VIII commissioned the destruction of the church in castle. Moreover, during the second world war, this castle was bombed heavily. Therefore, a lot of it is in ruins today. Still, it is a place of great historical importance and the ruins itself are quite a popular tourist attraction.

7. The Tower of London

The Tower of London

One of the most beautiful castles to see near London is in London itself: The Tower of London. Located in the northern bank of the river Thames, the Tower of London was founded during the Norman conquest. This was erected at the same time as that of the Hastings Castle. This building was used as a residence for the Royals and was converted into a prison later. The most notable prisoner here was Elizabeth I who later became the Queen. It is from the Tower of London that the British phrase “send to the tower” was coined. The tower is a great site for those who are interested to know more about the complexities of the European nation. It is quite easy to reach and so should be a part of all London visitor’s itineraries.

Suggested Read: 12 Best Places To Hog On Street Food In London

8. Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle

The Corfe Castle is around three hours’ drive from London. It is located on the top of a hill, beside a quaint village in Dorset. It was built using limestone during the 11th and 12th century and stands 20 meters tall. During the English civil war, this castle was defended by Lady Bankes. Like many fortified castles in the region, the captors have damaged the interiors so that the enemies could not further use them. You can still see the murder slits and arrow holes.

9. Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle is less than three hours’ drive from London. The Framlingham Castle exemplifies the classic “motte and bailey” fortifications. The Framlingham Castle has 13 towers and a stockade that still attracts many tourists. Framlingham Castle played a crucial role during the Tudor period. There is an exhibition that allows visitors to see the history of the castle.

Suggested Read: 8 Cottages In London For Best Of Hospitality & Comfort

10. Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle

The Bodiam Castle located in East Sussex is one of the best examples of a medieval fortress. Even though the structure was built as a symbol of status back in the 14th century, it still has the features of a fortified medieval palace. Even though the interiors are in ruins, the exteriors present a beautiful view with soaring towers and high walls. Other than pretty views, the fortress makes for a great background for those who love to click pictures. Do explore this beautiful castle on your next trip to London.

Further Read: Christmas In London: Top 10 Experiences For A Lively Celebration Like Never Before!

The glorious city of London is known for its rich history as embodied by the castles in and around it. Castles near London are a must to visit when exploring England, as they are the most prominent proofs of the regality of the queens and kings of London. If you are planning on your trip to London , do not forget to add these royal castles to your list.

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visit castle near london

11 Fairytale Castles Near London 

January 31, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best castles near London? I am always in search of a good castle, it’s one of the reasons I love the U.K. so much.  

I’ve included some of the famous castles near London such as Windsor Castle , Leeds and Hever . I’ve also included some lesser known ones such as Camber Castle and my favorite Scotney Castle . 

So if you love all the history, dreaming of days gone by and imagining yourself as a Queen or King, I have you covered.  

Sit back and let me walk you through some of the best castle day trips from London. 

If this in your first time in London you might want to steal this London 3 Day Itinerary .

Please note I have included the distance via the shortest route but please search as the shortest is not always the fastest route. Also transport change often in the U.K. so check everything before you travel. 

Bodiam Castle from the Sky. You can see the castle surrounded by water and fall foliage, It is one of the castles near London.

Dover Castle

Distance from London: 78 miles ( shortest route via M2 and A2). 

Getting there:  If you are going to Dover Castle the train is your best option as it takes just over an hour. If you are going to drive it will take you over 2 hours. 

Medieval castles near London don’t come much better than this one. I loved my visit here and the view from this castle is incredible. 

Initially built in the 11th century by King Henry II this castle is often names the “Key to England” and is of great historical importance. Dover Castle was also the control center for Operation Dynamo, also called the Dunkirk evacuation. 

I found there was so much to see at this site. It also includes a lighthouse, multiple churches, and a Norman castle. You can easily spend all day here. 

My tips here are to climb to the roof of the Great Tower as the view is amazing. Also take the tour that takes you to the secret wartime tunnels it’s really interesting. 

I also recommend if you can bring some food with you and have a picnic as it’s the perfect location.  This is one of the best castles in the London area.

Aerial view to Dover castle at sunset. One of the castles near London. She can see the castle on the hill surrounded by the walls.

Highclere Castle

Distance from London: 67 miles ( shortest route via M4)  

Getting there: To drive here it will take you about 2 hours. On public transport you will need to get a train to Newbury which takes about 40 minutes, the castle is about a 15 minute taxi ride from the station.  

If you like your castles on the more elaborate side than Highclere is for you. When I tell you it is the filming location of BBC’s popular television show, Downton Abbey you know it’s spectacular. 

Built upon a 5,000-acre estate, there is so much to explore here and I honestly forgot about the outside world here. Things to do here include the Egyptian exhibit and exploring the gardens, also if you can take a tour I found it so interesting and informative. 

My advise is check before you go as opening times here change often and the tours times and dates change too. I would also say buy your tickets in advance as they can sell out. 

This is one of the  castles to visit near London that you won’t want to miss.

Highclere Castle, filming location for Downton Abbey in Hampshire, England. One of the castles near London.

Scotney castle 

Distance from London:  52 miles (shortest route via A 21) 

Getting there: In the car this castle is just over an hour away. Public transport here isn’t as easy and involves a train a bus and walk and takes just under three hours.

I’ve seen many castles in south England and I have to say this is one of my favorites. This 14th century moated castle has such a romantic dreamy feel to it

If you are looking for a  fairytale medieval experience this is where you will find it. 

There is 78 acres of open parkland, a woodland to roam through, and a adorable walled kitchen garden. The gardens are open from February and the house usually opens in March. They also have a second hand bookshop here, what more could you want? 

Scotney Castle reflected in moat on summer's day, Kent. The castle has ivy on it. It is one of the castles near London.

Windsor Castle

Distance from London: 23 miles (shortest route via A4 or M4)   

Getting There : If you are driving the journey to Windsor Castle it will take you just over an hour. There is a train from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside which runs quite regularly. There are also many buses from various stations taking anywhere between 1 hour 39 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes.  

I you visit only one castle near London I would make it this one. It’s one of the easiest to get to and is very impressive. Also it is one of the only castles that is Royal which I think adds a certain something. 

I find Windsor such a pretty castle and the town around it is also beautiful. It has all the pomp and ceremony that you won’ find at any of the others. 

The changing of the guard happens here at 11 am every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. And if the King is in residence the Royal Standard will be flying. 

The castle was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and has housed Monarchs ever since. It is also the final resting place of many royals including the late Queen and Prince Phillip. I found visiting St Georges chapel where they are all buried very moving. 

Due to the fact it is a working castle it isn’t always open so please check before you go. Sometimes it is closed and sometimes some state rooms are unavailable for viewing. If you are driving you will need to park about 10 minutes away as there is no parking on site. 

This is one of the closest castle to London. If you want to see a bit of everything and have to use public transport this is the place to go. 

Long walk to Windsor castle in spring. The castle is at the end of a road and you can see spring flowers.

Hever Castle

Distance from London: 30 miles ( shortest route via A233) 

Getting there: Driving from London to Hever will take you approximately one hour 30 minutes. The train from Victoria or London Bridge takes about 40 minutes less. , the castle is then a one mile rural walk from the station. 

This is one of the smaller castles but in my mind is one of the better looking ones. Ever view of this castle shows a different framed vista that literally has me screaming in delight.  It is also one of the castle hotels near London.

Hever Castle was originally built in the 12th century, but it is known most for its Tudor history. It was the home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII. 

The gardens take up 125 acres and there are 4,000 rose bushes, an Italian garden, and a Tudor garden. Oh and if you are here in spring there are over 21,000 tulips. You can only imagine how happy I was with all this to explore. 

This is one of the castles in southern England to visit if you have children. Here are two playgrounds that have been created to match the design of the castle, and two mazes to explore. They also have lessons in archery and shield painting, and there are chances to watch jousting on the property.

One of the castles near London. There are hedges out the front and the building is covered in ivy.

Leeds Castle

Distance from London: 42 miles ( shortest route via A2 and M2)

Getting there: The drive to Leeds Castle will take about 60-90 minutes. There is a train from London Victoria which takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, you will then have a 32 minutes walk to the castle. 

Leeds castle is not in Leeds, I know its confusing. I don’t know why the U.K. does this type of thing. It has been called the loveliest castle in England and I have to say I agree. 

Built in 1119, this palace was used by Henry VIII, and was the private residence of six medieval queens. It is one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain so make sure you pre-book your tickets. 

One of the must sees here is the dog collar museum. I know it sounds odd but with 130 dog collars I found it actually really interesting. And the maze is so fun, when you reach the center you return through an underground grotto. 

There is so much to so and see here and it’s one of the best castle day trips from London.

Twilight shot of Leeds Castle across the moat illuminated at Winter.

Arundel Castle

Distance from London: 64 miles ( shortest route via A 3 and A 283)  

Getting there:  The drive here is about a hour and 25 minutes. There is a train from London Victoria which will take about a hour 40 minutes with a change at Horsham. 

When it comes to fairytale castles, and I’ve see a few, but this is one of my favorites. Building of the castle started in 1068 and finished in 1189. 

The thing what I love most about this castle is that has been passed down solely through female heiresses which is so unusual.  

The castle is spectacular and the town that surrounds it is honestly stunning. My tips are to stop and enjoy the views when you are here as they are stunning. Also spend time in the gardens and explore a bit as the views from the castle are incredible. I particularly loved the rose garden and glass greenhouse. 

I visited in spring where the property was by 60,000  tulips and it was incredible.  This is one of the castles in England near London that you will want to put top of your list.

Arundel is one of the best old English villages .

Side View of Arundel Castle, Arundel, West Sussex, England, United Kingdom. Bird Eye View. Beautiful Sunset Light

Rochester Castle

Distance from London: 31 miles (shortest route via A201 A2) 

Getting There : This is one of the shorter drives at 45 minutes. The train from London Victoria takes about 40 minutes. 

This is one of the lesser known castles but believe me it is worth a visit. It was originally built in the 12th century and while some of it has fallen into disrepair some of it has been renovated. This is the nearest castle to London.

Rochester has one of the tallest tower-keeps from that period of time that is still remaining today at a height of 113 feet. I loved it here, to me it’s one of the most castle looking castles on the list and well worth a visit. 

This is one of the best castles in the UK near London.

A view of Rochester Castle with beautiful flowers in the foreground, in the historic city of Rochester in Kent, UK. One of the castles near London.

Camber Castle

Distance from London: 79 miles ( shortest route via A21)

Getting there: The journey here in cars will take about one and half hours and the train from St Pancreas takes about 2 hours 20 mins to Rye and then a 40 minute walk.   

This is one of the castles in south England completely in ruins but it’s super unusual and well worth a visit. Also it is surrounded by sheep and I don’t know what it is but I just love sheep. 

You can only explore this castle with a tour so you will need to plan and book beforehand. These tours only occur on every first Saturday of the month at 2 pm.

Camber Castle is more of a artillery fort than a castle. It was designed to guard the port of Rye. If you are looking for something a little different and very natural then this is the place for you. 

You can’t drive to the castle and there is a mile walk down a clearly marked path.  

Castle ruins showing one of the castles near London. The photo is taken from the air and you can see the fields surrounding it.

Framlingham Castle

Distance from London: 105 miles (shortest route via A 13 and A12)

Getting there: The drive will take between 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours. Getting here in public transport is fairly difficult so you will want to drive.

Framlingham Castle was built in the 12th century by a powerful Norman family, and over its history, it has been many different things. 

From a home of many powerful families, the first woman to be named Duchess to where Mary Tudor was named Queen of England. It has also been a poorhouse and parish hall. This place has history.

It is surrounded by picturesque parkland and beautiful lakes and the wall walks is incredible with stunning views.

The children will love it here as there is lots to explore.

Sunset over Framlingham Castle. The castle is in a field and you can see trees behind it.

Bodiam Castle

Distance from London: 60 miles ( shortest route via A2 and A21)

Getting there: The drive here is about an hour 15 and train from Charing Cross takes an hour and 30 and you will have an 11 minute taxi ride from the station. 

If I was to ask you to conjure up the image of a castle in your head most of you would conjure up something like this one. This is an archetypal 14th century moated castle that is just so adorable. 

This 14th century castle is considered one of Britain’s most picturesque and romantic ancient monuments. It has everything from an impressive gate house, a wide moat crossed by a bridge , a tower and ruins.  

The castle is open from February but check before you go as timings are different depending on what day you go. 

Several castle tours are offered at different times and different days so plan accordingly. This is one of the best castles around London.

Ruins of 14th century Bodiam castle at sunrise. You can see the bridge leading to the entrance gate.

I just adore the castles in the U.K. and I hope when you are there you get to visit one of these famous castles near London. They all offer something different and unique from each other. 

Whether you visit one of the medieval castles near London or one of the castle hotels near London I’m sure you will love these as much as I do. 

Please comeback and tell me about your trip, and have fun.

Here are some more castles in England if you want to see more.

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Fairytale castles near London in England

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A Life Away

A Life Away

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Three Castles to Visit From London by Train (No Driving Required!)

Castles Near London

London is a wonderful city (don’t miss my city itinerary guide here!), but I cannot encourage you enough to get out of the city and see more of the United Kingdom’s beauty. An easy way to accomplish this is to visit one of these beautiful castles or palaces.

From Central London, these three destinations are reachable in 90 minutes or less with zero driving required! Each makes for a lovely day trip and great escape from the bustle of city life. 

How To Book Train Tickets to UK Castles from London

Train tickets to reach any of these castles can easily be booked with Trainline . I use Trainline to book all of my UK train trips.

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This article contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and they help keep my content free – a win-win! For more information, see the affiliate disclosure .

Windsor Castle

Castles from London by train

This is the best choice for fans of the British Royal Family. This castle was originally founded in the 11 th  century by William the Conqueror, and today it remains an active home for Royals . 

Keep an eye out for the Royal Standard flying. It is flown only when the sovereign is in residence .

visit castle near london

Unsurprisingly, you won’t get to join the royal family for tea on your visit, but there is still a lot to see here. 

Highlights of the castle tour include the State Apartments where heads of state are still welcomed today, and Queen Mary’s fascinating dolls’ house . The dolls’ house was not intended as a child’s toy, but rather is an example of incredible craftsmanship in miniature. It even includes electricity, running water, and working lifts!

In addition to the regular tour, there are often rotating events and opportunities to book private after-hours tours on the official website.  

How to Get There?

To avoid train transfers, catch the direct train from London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside station. This route takes approximately 55 minutes . You will have an uphill walk from the station to the castle from here.

If you’re comfortable changing trains, instead buy a ticket from London Paddington with a simple change at Slough before arriving at Windsor & Eton Central . The walk from here is a bit shorter and less of a climb. Despite changing trains, you can make this trip in only 25-35 minutes . 

Hampton Court Palace

Castles from London by train

While it’s technically a former royal palace rather than a castle, this beautiful place is an absolute must visit that every member of your family will enjoy.

Built by Cardinal Wolsey in the 16 th  Century, Hampton Court Palace is most famous as the favoured home of King Henry VIII . All six of his wives spent time here and it is rumoured that Catherine Howard still haunts one of the galleries .  

Parts of the palace have been updated since King Henry’s time. It is fascinating to see the changes in architecture and style as you move through the palace.

This palace is also excellent for children. The palace grounds are expansive and good for letting off steam. There is also a dedicated play area called the Magic Garden and a hedge maze for young and old adventurers. 

Fans of the tv show Bridgerton may also enjoy spotting several areas of the palace that served as film locations  for the show. These include Fountain Court, Master Carpenter’s Court and the Privy Gardens.

Catch a direct train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station. You’ll arrive 30-35 minutes after departure and it’s just a short walk across the Thames to the palace entrance. 

Reminder that if you also plan to visit the Tower of London on your trip, it may be more cost effective to purchase a Historic Royal Palaces annual membership  rather than paying for the two single admissions separately. 

If you’d like to spend the evening outside of London, this is a great area for it. The King’s Arms Hotel is a gorgeous hotel just outside the walls of Hampton Court Palace that provides a lovely stay. Most rooms are perfect for couples, or book their 2-bedroom suite for a family stay. We stayed here with friends who traveled in from the US and all enjoyed having a pretty and quiet place to rest before our palace visit.

More to see nearby include Bushy Park, Kingston Upon Thames and Richmond Park. You can also take a river cruise up the Thames to Richmond Upon Thames for a relaxing way to travel. 

Arundel Castle

visit castle near london

This castle perched on a hill in West Sussex is still home to the Duke of Norfolk and family. Originally built in the late 11 th century, you can visit a medieval keep, 14 th  century chapel, expansive gardens, state rooms, and luxury bedrooms still used by guests of the family today.

Arundel Castle also runs many events in the spring and summer that are fun for the whole family. Think history days, jousts, and open-air theatre.  

The town of Arundel just outside the castle is lovely and well worth a stroll before or after your castle visit. There are several vintage shops, cafes, and sweet treat sellers scattered along the historic high street.

Note that Arundel Castle is only open to visitors from 1 April to 30 October each year. 

Take a direct train from London Victoria to Arundel in just under 90 minutes . From the station, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the castle entrance.

Approaching Arundel Castle by train is a delight. Just before you reach Arundel station, you’ll see the castle on the hill out the right side of the train. It looks like it was plucked right out of a fairytale. 

Castles from London by train

Once you walk out of the station take a left on the main road and follow it into town. You can’t miss the giant castle on the hill!

Other Castles Near London That Aren’t on Direct Train Lines

These can all be reached with a rental car or on a bus tour. Some can be reached by train and then taking a taxi for the last bit. As these locations are in the country, it is best to pre-book a taxi when you plan to use one. 

If you aren’t familiar with driving in the UK, take a look at this Guide to Driving in the UK for Americans before you head out.

Hever Castle

Best known for being the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Double moat around the pretty castle.

If the weather is fine, you can take a train to Hever station and walk the 1.5 mile country footpath route   to this castle.

Leeds Castle

Look for the iconic black swans at this historic castle last privately owned by an American heiress. 

Highclere Castle

This castle also serves as the stately home in Downton Abbey. Because of the tv fame, this one can be harder to book tickets unless you start in advance. Guided tours like this one  will provide transportation, entrance tickets, and a tour guide for your visit from London. 

Dover Castle

If military history is your draw, don’t miss this castle in East Sussex. Situated right on the English Channel, this fortress has been an icon since 1066. 

Blenheim Palace

This beautiful palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, and has been the set for several films. 

Blenheim Palace can be reached by a combination of train and bus routes from London. 

Warwick Castle

If a UK castle were to be run by Disney, this is basically what I’d expect. They have a ton of entertainment layered atop the centuries old castle.

Warwick Railway Station can be reached from London in a little under 2 hours. It’s one mile from there to the castle.

Bodiam Castle 

If atmospheric ruins are more your thing, this castle is for you. It has the castle look from outside complete with moat, but the interior is a ruin.

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visit castle near london

3 thoughts on “ Three Castles to Visit From London by Train (No Driving Required!) ”

love love castles..and how easy you describe the travel..saving this for a future dream trip!

I had no idea that you could visit these directly via train! Super helpful!

These look great. Thanks for including the transport information.

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THE 5 BEST London Castles

Castles in london.

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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

visit castle near london

1. Kensington Palace

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2. St. James's Palace

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3. Severndroog Castle

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4. White Tower

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5. Crown Fugitive Of Tower London

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Paige Minds The Gap

Visiting the Tower of London: Everything You Need to Know

A royal residency, place of execution, and home to the dazzling Crown Jewels. Built in the 1070’s, the Tower of London is shrouded in history. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Tower of London .

I’ve visited the Tower of London three times, and each time has been a delight. The first time was with my family, the second time with my friends while studying abroad, and most recently with Kevin on our tour of the UK and Ireland .

A visit to the Tower of London is a definite must if you’re visiting London ! In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting this impressive castle, including how to save money on Tower of London tickets, what to see while you’re there, and where to stay nearby.

Tower of London Overview

The Tower of London (officially called His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, but that’s a mouthful!), is a historic castle in central London set on the north bank of the River Thames.

The castle has seen hundreds of years of history, from the Norman Invasion to executions. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the home of the Crown Jewels, and London’s most popular tourist attraction.

History of the Tower of London

Following the Norman Conquest, William the Conqueror built the Tower of London to defend his title from rebellion. It soon became the most secure castle in the country, and so it became the place to guard royal possessions like the Crown Jewels and the royal family during times of war.

William the Conqueror built the castle’s iconic keep, and the fortress took 20 years to build. Henry III and Edward I expanded the castle by adding curtain walls and by enlarging the moat.

Henry III painted the keep white, giving it the name the White Tower. These changes transformed the Tower of London into England’s largest and strongest concentric castle — a castle containing one ring of defenses inside another.

The Tower was where arms and armor were made until the 1800’s. The castle also controlled the nation’s supply of money by having all the country’s coins made at the Tower Mint until 1810.

The Tower has been an infamous prison and the site of royal murders, betrayals, and executions. Henry VI was murdered in the Tower during the War of the Roses, and the children of Edward IV were taken to the Tower never to be seen again. Henry VIII’s bride Anne Boleyn was accused of adultery and treason and was executed on Tower Green.

Touring the Tower of London: What to See

When you tour the Tower of London , you can wait for a guided tour led by a Yeoman Warder or you can storm the castle yourself. I’ve done both, and having the Yeoman-led tour is the best way to get the most information. But if you’re short on time, you’ll probably want to do a self-guided visit.

There is a lot to see and do on your visit.

At the Tower of London, you can see the ravens that effectively hold the whole of the United Kingdom together, based on a superstition that at least six ravens have to be on the grounds at all times or the kingdom will fall .

You can also meet the Beefeaters , the Yeoman Warders who have been in charge of guarding the Tower since the Tutors. I, of course, bought a Beefeater bear at the gift shop to commemorate the occasion.

Your tour includes entrance to see the Crown Jewels . You will also be able to learn about the Tower Mint, see the historic armor of past kings, walk the battlements, tour the medieval palace, unfold stories of torture, and learn about the British infantry regiment.

Visiting the Tower of London

Admission: Tickets to the Tower of London costs £33.60 for adults and £16.80 for children ages 5-15.

Admission to the Tower includes a tour with a Beefeater and entry to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, the Chapel of St Peter, the Battlements, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, the Fusiliers Museum, the Beauchamp Tower, and the Royal Mint Exhibition.

An audio guide can be purchased separately.

Hours: The Tower of London’s hours vary by season. You can view a list of opening and closing times here , along with planned closures. Last admission is typically an hour before closing.

Address: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom

Where to Find Discount Tower of London Tickets

My favorite way of getting a discounted ticket to the Tower of London is by using an attraction pass (because that means you’re also getting discounted tickets on other London attractions!).

Here are a few London sightseeing passes that will get you a discount on your Tower of London ticket:

  • London Pass
  • GoCity London Explorer Pass
  • London Sightseeing Pass
  • London City Card
  • London Big City Saver Pass

Top Tower of London Tours

There’s a lot to see in London! To take some of the stress out of planning your visit, opt for a guided tour. Check out this list of the top tours that include the Tower of London.

  • Tower of London Early Access Tour with Beefeater
  • VIP Early Access – Opening Ceremony Tower of London with Crown Jewels & Tower Bridge
  • Best of Royal London including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard , and Cruise

Hotels Near the Tower of London

Find a place to stay near the Tower of London. Here are the closest hotels to this impressive fortress:

  • DoubleTree by Hilton London – Tower of London
  • citizenM Tower of London Hotel
  • Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
  • The Tower Hotel
  • Tower Suites by Blue Orchid

Tower of London FAQ

What is the tower of london.

The Tower of London is a historical castle and fortress in London that has served throughout history as a Royal Palace, Mint, Zoo, and Prison. It currently houses the Crown Jewels, is a popular London Tourist attraction, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Who lives in the Tower of London?

The Yeomen Warders and their families, the Resident Governor, and a garrison of soldiers live in the Tower of London today. There is a doctor, a chaplain, and even a pub.

When was the Tower of London built?

William the Conqueror began building the Tower of London in 1066. The White Tower was built in 1078.

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is located in central London, England on the banks of the River Thames.

How long is the Tower of London tour?

The Yeoman-led tour takes about 1 hour. The audio guide tour can be taken at your own pace.

What was the Tower of London used for?

The Tower of London has been used as a fortress, a royal palace, a mint, a zoo, the home of the Crown Jewels, a tourist attraction, and more.

How long to spend at Tower of London?

You should plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the Tower of London. This will allow you to see the highlights. If you plan to tour the castle in-depth, then you might end up spending much of the day here.

Castle Count: 2

For another great castle to visit near London, check out Windsor Castle just a short day trip away in Windsor, England.

More London Resources

  • A Self-Guided WWII London Tour: 8 Top WWII Sites in London
  • King Arthur Tour from London: Top King Arthur Sites
  • 37 Free Things To Do in London
  • 2 Days in London: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
  • 10 Incredible Day Trips from London, England
  • Getting Engaged in London: A Romantic London Itinerary

Ready to visit the Tower of London in London, England? Plan your trip with these tips.

  • Book your flight:  Find the cheapest flights using  Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
  • Find accommodation: You can find top hotels in London using Booking.com.
  • Get packing:  Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources .

Have you visited the Tower of London in London, England? Tell me about your visit in the comments.

The post Visiting the Tower of London: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Paige Minds The Gap .

A royal residency, place of execution, and home to the dazzling Crown Jewels. Learn more about visiting the Tower of London here.

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    Tickets to visit Bodiam Castle are £11 (or £12.10 with gift aid). National Trust members go free. The Castle is also the jumping-off point for one of our favourite country walks near London. How to get to Bodiam Castle: The easiest way to get to Bodiam Castle from London is to catch the Kent & East Sussex Railways (KESR) train to Tenterden.

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    Today, Warwick Castle is one of the best castles to visit near London because its façade is a perfect example of 14th-century military architecture. It simply looks like a quintessential castle. It's amazingly well preserved and offers a wide variety of attractions that are perfect for a family day of historical fun.

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    Broughton Castle. Greg Biss/Getty Images. Complete with a moat, Broughton Castle gives off major medieval vibes. The castle, about 80 miles from London, is built of local Hornton ironstone and was ...

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    Getting to Kenilworth Castle from London. Distance from London: 102 miles, approximately 1 hour 55 minutes drive time. Kenilworth Castle can be reached by train with the station being just a mile from the castle. The journey from London Euston by train takes just under 2 hours and is a similar time to driving.

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    Windsor Castle was founded in the 11 th century, making it not only the oldest but also the largest occupied castle in the world. It's one of the best castles to visit near London, especially if you can time your visit with the 'Changing of the Guard' ceremony. This takes place on Thursdays and Saturdays just before 11am.

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    Windsor Castle: The Iconic Royal Residence. A Royal Abode Steeped in Tradition No exploration of castles near London would be complete without a visit to the iconic Windsor Castle. As the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, it continues to serve as the official residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

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    The history associated with these castles is absolutely fascinating. 7. Dover Castle [SEE MAP] Dover Castle, the largest castle in England, has been guarding the English Channel for centuries, earning it the nickname, "key of England.". William the Conqueror burned it when he invaded England in 1066. Located roughly 90 minutes from London ...

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    Donnington Castle Farm Cottage, Castle Lane, Donnington, Newbury, West Berkshire, RG14 2LE. Nearest station is Newbury. 20. Herstmonceux Castle. Photo: Angela Lensereflection, Shutterstock. Rounding off this list of the best castles near London is Herstmonceux Castle, a brick-built castle, dating from the 15th century.

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    How to Get to Leeds Castle from London: Distance from London: 68 miles, around 1 hour 15 minutes drive time. Using Public Transport: Catch a direct train from Victoria Station, London to Bearstead Station. The journey should take just over 1 hour. Address: Leeds Castle, Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL.

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    The Best Castles To Visit In And Near London. You can also see the map here. 1. Tower of London. Founded by William the Conqueror and used as a fortress, royal palace, Royal mint, Jewel House, and infamous prison and place of execution, the Tower of London contains 1,000 years of history within its ancient walls.

  13. 11 Of The Best Castles Near London To Explore

    2 Leeds Castle, Kent. 3 Castles Near London Map. 4 Rochester Castle, Kent. 4.1 READ MORE: Cutty Sark - World's Fastest Tea Clipper. 5 Highclere Castle, North Wessex. 6 Arundel Castle, West Sussex. 7 Dover Castle, Kent. 7.1 READ MORE: 15 Fun Day Trips from London by Car under 2 hours. 8 Portchester Castle, Hampshire.

  14. 6 best castles near London to visit in 2023: explore Royal history on

    Dover castle was built in the 11th century by King Henry II, so is actually a medieval castle near London, and has provided a much-needed defence to the country for a huge proportion of that time. Dover is one of the closest towns to mainland Europe and has always received plenty of sea traffic because of the short distance so as you can ...

  15. Six of the Best Castles Near London

    Windsor Castle. The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle is without a doubt a jewel of Britain and is one of the best day trips from London - even in the winter! The castle spreads out over 13 acres and the current Queen of Great Britain spends many weekends there - if the flag from the Round Tower is the Royal ...

  16. 18 Best Castles in London You Need to See

    Location: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, UK. 8. Hever Castle. One of the most popular castles outside of London, Hever Castle is only at a distance of an hour's train ride from London, in Hever, Kent. It is a double-moated castle where Henry VIII's 2nd wife, the ill-fated Anne Boleyn, used to live.

  17. 7 Castles near London to visit

    4. Hever Castle. Get to Hever Castle from London Bridge by train: 40 minutes. Built in 1270, Hever Castle near London in the county of Kent was home to one of the most powerful families of the Tudor period: the Boleyns. In the 15th and 16th century, the Boleyn family occupied Hever and made it home, as Anne Boleyn grew up to be the Queen of ...

  18. 10 Castles In London That Are A Must-Visit When In The UK

    The people in London and also the people, who visit London, love to spend time visiting various castles in the UK. 1. Hampton Court Palace. Image Source. It is not located exactly in Central London but it is on the boundary of London. Hampton Court is not exactly a Royal Palace from inhabitant but yet it has a lot of Royal history especially of ...

  19. 12 Epic Castles Near London To Visit

    With well over 1500 examples in England ready to be explored, I've chosen a selection of castles near London for your visiting pleasure. Contents [ hide] 1 Castles Near London: Visiting Tips. 2 Hever Castle, Kent. 3 Bodiam Castle: East Sussex. 4 Hastings Castle, Sussex. 5 Camber Castle, Sussex. 6 Berkhamsted Castle.

  20. Best Castles in London and Castles Near London To Visit on A Day Trip

    Walmer Castle, one of the castles near London that you can visit (Image credit: Jan Banerjee) Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle is definitely one of the most significant and beautiful castles in England as it is a royal residence and has over 1,000 years of history. The castle was built in the 11th century and was massively rebuilt in 1660 by ...

  21. 10 Best Castles Near London To Visit By Train

    Windsor & Eton Central Station is located just below the castle walls. 2.) Take the train from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station (approx 55 minutes). The station is a 5 minutes walk from Windsor Castle. Bear in mind that this walk involves a very steep climb up a hill.

  22. 10 Castles Near London That Are Prominent And Awe-Inspiring

    5. Windsor Castle. Image Source. When you are listing castles to visit in London, you just cannot leave out the Windsor Castle. It is one of the oldest medieval castles near London, UK. In fact, it is the largest and oldest fort in the whole world and a residence to the queen of England.

  23. 10 Fairytale Castles Near London You Can't Miss

    Hever Castle. Hever Castle is one of the smaller castles near London; however, it is still a beautiful sight. Hever Castle was originally built in the 12th century, but it is known most for its Tudor history. Hever Castle was the home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII.

  24. Three Castles to Visit From London by Train (No Driving Required!)

    Take a direct train from London Victoria to Arundel in just under 90 minutes. From the station, it's a short 10-minute walk to the castle entrance. Approaching Arundel Castle by train is a delight. Just before you reach Arundel station, you'll see the castle on the hill out the right side of the train. It looks like it was plucked right out ...

  25. THE 5 BEST London Castles to Visit (Updated 2024)

    By dacabs. Sit in the courtyard or on the benches and enjoy the view Tour this amazing small castle in Oxleas Woods. 4. White Tower. 26. Castles. City of London. By AlexanderD. The arms and armor exhibits were amazing, but for me climbing spiral staircases from the Middle Ages was itself a wor...

  26. Visiting the Tower of London: Everything You Need to Know

    For another great castle to visit near London, check out Windsor Castle just a short day trip away in Windsor, England. More London Resources. A Self-Guided WWII London Tour: 8 Top WWII Sites in ...