Best Castles To Visit In The Uk

So, there I was, scrolling through my Instagram feed, when I stumbled upon this absolutely breathtaking pic of a castle. I mean, it was like something straight out of a fairytale! And then it hit me, I've been living in the UK for ages and I've barely scratched the surface of its castle scene. I mean, come on, we're talking about a country that's practically made of history! So, I decided to do some digging and here are some of the best castles you absolutely must visit if you're in the UK.

Windsor Castle - Because It's The Queen's Pad

Let's start with the biggie, shall we? Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's still the official residence of Her Majesty The Queen. I mean, can you imagine having tea with the Queen in her very own castle? Now that's what I call a royal flush!

But it's not just about the royal connection. Windsor Castle is a masterclass in architecture, with a history that dates back over 1,000 years. Plus, it's home to some of the most impressive art collections in the world. So, even if you're not a royalist, it's still a must-visit.

Edinburgh Castle - The Heart of Scotland

Now, let's head up north to Scotland, where we find Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano. I mean, talk about a dramatic location! This castle is so iconic that it's practically the symbol of Edinburgh itself.

With a history that stretches back to the 7th century, Edinburgh Castle has seen its fair share of action. It's been a royal residence, a military fortress, and even a prison. And if you're a fan of the Crown, you'll recognize it as the setting for some of the show's most dramatic scenes.

Hampton Court Palace - A Tudor Treat

If you're a fan of all things Tudor, then Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit. This stunning palace was once home to King Henry VIII, and it's where he famously kept his six wives (although not all at once, thankfully!).

Best castles to visit in England | Our top picks | Rough Guides

Hampton Court is a real treasure trove of Tudor history, with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and even a real-life maze. And if you're feeling brave, you can even take a ghost tour and see if you can spot any of Henry's former wives wandering the halls.

Bodiam Castle - The Castle That Time Forgot

Now, let's talk about Bodiam Castle. This place is like something straight out of a storybook, with its moat, its towers, and its ramparts. It's like stepping back in time to the Middle Ages, and it's easy to see why it's one of the most photographed castles in the UK.

But here's the thing, Bodiam Castle isn't just a pretty face. It's also got a fascinating history, with a past that's filled with intrigue, drama, and even a bit of espionage. So, it's not just a great place to take a selfie, it's also a great place to learn about history.

The Best Castles to Visit in England, Wales, and Scotland

Alnwick Castle - The Castle That's Always On Screen

If you're a fan of movies and TV shows, then you'll probably recognize Alnwick Castle. This stunning castle has been used as a location in everything from Harry Potter to Downton Abbey. And if you're a fan of the latter, you'll be pleased to know that it's also the real-life home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland.

But Alnwick Castle isn't just a pretty face for the cameras. It's also got a fascinating history, with a past that's filled with intrigue, drama, and even a bit of witchcraft. And if you're feeling brave, you can even try your hand at broomstick training in the castle's very own State Rooms!

So there you have it, folks. My personal pick of the best castles to visit in the UK. Whether you're a history buff, a royalist, or just a fan of a good selfie spot, there's something on this list for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!