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Our journey through the UK and Europe has been an absolute blast, with each castle visit feeling like stepping into a time machine. From the wild beauty of North Wales to the peaceful English countryside, these castles are like grand old storytellers, standing tall through the ages. Here are a few of our favourite castles we’ve explored across the UK. We’ve rounded it down to our top 17, complete with all the info you’ll need before you go—no dragon slaying required!

So grab your sword and let’s get ready to storm some castles!

1. Alnwick Castle

Nestled in the heart of Northumberland, this is charming medieval fortress with a fascinating history going back to the 11th century. It’s been the home of the Percy family for over 700 years and currently houses the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland.

This enchanting castle gained worldwide fame as the magical backdrop for many unforgettable scenes in the Harry Potter series, like those thrilling flying lessons in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. You’ll also spot it in beloved movies and TV shows like Downton Abbey, Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, Transformers: The Last Knight and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Right next to the castle is the delightful Alnwick Garden, a vast and picturesque haven featuring stunning landscapes, a whimsical treehouse restaurant, a mysterious poison garden, and enchanting water features. It’s a place where history, magic, and beauty all come together to create a truly enchanting experience.

Need to know: The castle is closed during winter. Opens again from late March. Adult tickets start at £21.55 and £11.35 for a child (5-16yrs), and if you want to visit the gardens an adult day ticket is £19.70 (up to 4 children go free with every paying adult for a garden day ticket). Parking is £3.50 per vehicle for the day. For more info here is the link to the official website Alnwick Castle.

2. Windsor Castle

In the heart of Berkshire, is a beautiful testament to the grandeur and history of the British monarchy. As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, it’s been a royal home for over 900 years, giving us a charming peek into England’s rich past.

The castle is one of the official residences of the British monarch and has long been a favourite weekend getaway for Queen Elizabeth II. Its historic walls have seen centuries of royal life, state occasions, and historical events, making it a cherished symbol of British heritage.

Windsor Castle offers a fascinating look into the history and traditions of the British monarchy. Visitors can explore the grand State Apartments, see Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and enjoy the beautiful gardens. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a highlight, giving a chance to see a classic royal tradition in action.

Need to know: The Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Adult tickets start at £31.00 (prebooked) and £15.00( prebooked) for a child ticket (5-17yrs) and £20.00 for young adults (prebooked). There is no visitor car parking at the Castle, so we recommend you use public car parks in the town centre. Romney Lock and King Edward VII car parks on Datchet Road are both less than a 10-minute walk from Windsor Castle and the town centre. They offer a more affordable parking option compared to the short-stay car parks located in the middle of town. For more information on Windsor visit the official website.

3. Dunrobin Castle & Garden

If you’re planning a visit in Scotland, Dunrobin Castle in Sutherland, is a must-visit! This historic home is the largest in the Northern Highlands and has been around since the early 1300s. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale with its mix of Scottish and French architecture. Inside, the state rooms are filled with history and elegance. The Victorian museum within the castle showcases interesting exhibits about the Sutherland family’s past. If you are able to visit in spring, the gardens come alive with colour and it is a beautiful sight to see, that was one of my core memories, just enjoying a stroll through the manicured gardens.

Another highlight is the falconry display. Skilled falconers demonstrate the ancient art of training birds of prey, which is exciting for both kids and adults.

Need to know: Adult tickets start at £15.50, £9.00 for a Child (6+). The tickets include entry to the Castle, Museum, Falconry and Gardens. And parking is free. For more info check out the official website Dunrobin Website.

4. St. Michael’s Mount

If you’re looking for a magical day out with the family, St Michael’s Mount Castle in Cornwall is a perfect destination. St Michael’s Mount has such an exciting history that goes all the way back to the Neolithic period! Originally starting as a priory, it later turned into a fortified castle. The St Aubyn family has been living here since the mid-1600s and still calls it home today. This beautiful castle is perched on a tidal island in Mount’s Bay, near Penzance, and offers a wonderful mix of history, beauty, and adventure.

The island also has a delightful Victorian museum, art galleries, and a cozy café where you can relax and enjoy some refreshments. Even getting to the island is an adventure—during low tide, you can walk across the granite causeway from Marazion to reach the castle. How cool is that!

Need to know: The castle is closed during winter, (open March – October) Adult tickets start £16.00 and £8 for a child (5-15yrs). Admission is free if you are a National Trust member. During the winter season access to the harbour, village, shops, cafés and gallery is free, and access is by foot only when the causeway is open (check tide times). You can also board a ferryboat and take the short trip across to the Mount (but the boats do not run during the winter period). Best parking spot is The St Michael’s Mount and Long Stay Marazion car park. Again for more details visit their Website.

Please note: Ancient, rugged and steep, some parts of the island and castle can be tricky to navigate. Paths around the island are steep, cobbled and uneven with intermittent handrails. There are unguarded edges and steep drops. Sensible footwear is recommended.

5. Arundel Castle

This stunning medieval castle, rich in history with beautiful architecture, offers an educational and exciting experience for all ages.

Arundel Castle has stood tall since the 11th century, serving as the home to the Earls of Arundel and the Dukes of Norfolk over the years. As you wander through the castle, you’ll be captivated by the grand rooms, including the Keep, the Gatehouse, and the Barbican. Inside, you’ll find exquisite furniture, tapestries, and paintings by renowned artists like Van Dyck and Gainsborough. Make sure to visit the Fitzalan Chapel, known for its breathtaking stained glass windows!

The castle’s gardens are truly a sight to behold. The care and effort put into maintaining the gardens make them a must-see, especially if your a gardener yourself. Throughout the year, Arundel also comes alive with various events, including medieval festivals, jousting tournaments, and historical reenactments. Visit Castle website for more details.

Need to know: The castle is open from April to November, (closed on Mondays, except bank holidays and in August) with specific opening times for different areas of the castle. Adult Castle and garden tickets start £28.00 and £12.50 for a child. For parking use The Mill Road pay & display car park which is directly opposite the Castle entrance, and the rates are currently £2.50 for up to 3 hours or £5.00 all day.

6. Neuschwanstein Castle

If you’re dreaming of a fairytale adventure, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, should be in your list. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps near Füssen, this 19th-century palace, built by King Ludwig II, is a true architectural masterpiece that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook.

Construction of Neuschwanstein Castle began in 1869 and inside you can explore a variety of rooms which include: The Throne Room, features a dazzling chandelier, ornate decorations. The Singer’s Hall, this room was intended for musical performances and the The King’s Bedroom.

Perched on a hilltop, the castle has beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes. If you have time make sure to walk across the nearby Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) which provides an iconic viewpoint for capturing stunning photographs of the castle. For more info Visit the offical website.

Need to know: A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle is only possible as part of a guided tour. Adult tickets start at EUR 23.50 and EUR 2.50 for a child (0-17yrs). Tickets do sell out early so its advised to prebook before you arrive. Backpacks, prams, and similar bulky objects are not allowed in the castle and no photographing or filming is allowed inside. To get here the best way would be via train, from any major city to Füssen, from there you can catch bus to Hohenschwangau, which is a short 10-minute ride. From there, it’s a walk or shuttle ride up to the castle.

7. Powis Castle & Garden

In the heart of Wales you will find this hidden gem, it’s a delightful mix of medieval architecture, lush gardens, and captivating stories that will transport you back in time. Powis Castle dates back to the 13th century and was originally built by the Welsh prince Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn. Over the centuries, it has been the home of the Herbert family for more than 600 years.

You can wander through its grand rooms, including the Clive Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Clive family, who played a significant role in British colonial history. The gardens at Powis Castle are among the finest in Britain. They feature, Italianate Terraces: These terraces are considered the best surviving example of a 17th-century terraced garden in Britain. Orangery, built in the 18th century, this stunning glasshouse has a collection of citrus trees. And Edwardian Formal Garden with beautiful flower beds and fountains. For more details visit Powis Website.

Need to know: Powis Castle and Garden is open year-round, with specific opening times for different areas of the castle and gardens. Adult castle tickets are £15.00 and £7.50 for children (5-17yrs). Though if you are a National Trust Member the you will get free admission. Another highlight is there is no charge for car parking.

8. Culzean Castle & Country Park

If you make it to South Ayrshire in Scotland and want a fun day for the whole family, then Culzean has to make it on the list. Whether you’re exploring the historic rooms filled with intriguing artifacts, wandering through the beautiful gardens, or enjoying the adventure playgrounds there is enough here to keep the fam happy.

Built between 1777 and 1792 for the 10th Earl of Cassillis, David Kennedy, the castle was transformed from a basic tower house into a grand country residence. The castle has guided tours that provide captivating insights into its rich history and stunning architecture. The expansive 260-hectare estate surrounding the castle features enchanting gardens, pristine beaches, lush woods, and scenic trails. Families can embark on a peaceful stroll, enjoy a picturesque picnic, or take on an adventurous hike. The Swan Pond and the formal gardens offer beautiful settings perfect for exploration. The park is also teeming with diverse wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and even Highland cows, making it an exciting destination for young nature enthusiasts. For all the details just pop over to Culzean Website.

Need to know: The castle is closed during winter but the country park is open. Park tickets for adults are £7.00 and £4.00 for children. Adult castle tickets are only able to be booked when in season(check the Website for more details). There is paid parking onsite. If you are a member with National Trust for Scotland you will have free admission and parking.

Whether your dreaming of strolling through medieval halls, exploring beautiful gardens, or discovering the stories of the people who lived in these grand castles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope this inspires you to add these stunning castles to your travel bucket list!

Part two of our favourite castles to visit is coming soon! Get ready for more majestic fortresses and captivating stories. Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss it!

Have you visited any of these castles, or do you have any favourites you’d recommend? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!