Three things will strike you on a road trip through England: the sheep, the abbeys, and the castles! As soon as you get past London, you’ll find them absolutely everywhere! It would take several months to truly explore this country, so rich in heritage, and take the time to enjoy it.
The diversity of castles in England, a rich heritage
English castles are much more than historical monuments; like our castles in France, they represent centuries of architecture, history, and culture. You’ll find buildings from various eras, showcasing different styles and construction techniques. From medieval forts with their imposing walls to Tudor period estates, not to mention Victorian residences, English castles offer a range of styles that reflect the cultural and political shifts of each period.
Of course, not all of them are in perfect condition. While many are unfortunately in ruins, numerous others are well-preserved and open to the public. Some castles, privately owned and partially inhabited, are more expensive to visit due to the entrance fees.
Iconic castles not to be missed
From south to north, including Yorkshire, you’ll find numerous castles to visit, each with a unique architectural style depending on the region you’re in. Some of them are iconic, and although they may be quite touristy, it would be a shame to miss them. Here are a few castles to discover, from south to north:
Windsor Castle
The official residence of the British monarchy, this castle is one of the oldest and most prestigious still inhabited in the world. It’s famous for its St. George’s Chapel and its magnificent royal gardens. The visit is self-guided, with an audio guide available in your language. The castle is vast, and the tour is very interesting; we recommend planning at least half a day to fully enjoy it. The chapel is stunning, and we were very moved to pass by the tombs of Queen Elizabeth and the Duke. Unfortunately, photos and videos are prohibited inside the chapel and the castle. Despite the crowds, the visit remains very pleasant.
Dover Castle
Visible as soon as you arrive at the port of Dover, the castle is very imposing and overlooks the sea as well as the famous white cliffs. Known as the “key to England” due to its strategic role, this medieval castle houses wartime tunnels and a recreation of Henry II’s great hall. Not far from the castle, take the opportunity to go for a hike and admire the white cliffs.
Warwick Castle
This impressive medieval castle is renowned for its live historical re-enactments, falconry demonstrations, and immersive exhibitions in the dungeons. It’s a visit that will please both adults and children!
Alnwick Castle
Very famous in the Muggle world, this castle is known as the “Harry Potter Castle” because it served as a filming location. Alnwick is one of the largest inhabited castles in England and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, this is a visit you can’t miss! Several exteriors were used as sets for Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. You can even take a broomstick flying lesson! We really enjoyed this activity with the kids and had a good laugh!
Outside the Harry Potter universe, the castle offers a medieval courtyard with demonstrations of old trades, free costume dress-ups, and an interactive dragon hunt! In the gardens, you can watch sword fights, archery demonstrations, or musical performances. Be sure to ask for the day’s schedule when you arrive, as it changes regularly. As for the interior of the castle, it is styled very luxuriously, far from the Harry Potter theme. Unfortunately, photos are also prohibited here.
Bamburgh Castle
Located in Northumberland and overlooking the coast, this castle is very well known thanks to the Vikings series on Netflix. It boasts a spectacular position and a rich history dating back to the Saxons. Bamburgh offers magnificent views of the North Sea and houses a collection of medieval treasures.
The different passes for exploring England’s castles on a budget
There are two types of passes in England that can help make your visits easier and more affordable:
English Heritage:
The English Heritage pass gives you access to over 400 historic sites, including castles, abbeys, and stately homes. In addition to offering free or discounted entry, it also provides privileged access to certain exhibitions and events, making it an economical option for heritage enthusiasts.
The prices at the time of writing this article:
- Adult: around £64 per year
- Adult couple: around £111 per year
- Family (two adults and up to six children): around £111 per year
- Student or senior: discounts are often available
Benefits:
- Free access to English Heritage sites
- Discounts on certain events and activities
- 20% off in site shops and cafés
- Discounts for partner sites across Europe
The National Trust:
The National Trust pass provides access to numerous sites, including historic homes and gardens. It can also offer discounts or even free parking.
The prices at the time of writing this article:
- Adult: around £84 per year
- Young adult (18-25 years): around £42 per year
- Adult couple: around £139 per year
- Family (two adults and up to ten children): around £146 per year
- Student: specific discounts may be available
Benefits:
- Unlimited access to National Trust properties and natural sites
- Free parking at National Trust sites
- Discounts in the shops and restaurants of certain sites
- Quarterly magazine and exclusive content for subscribers
It’s up to you to choose what will be most beneficial based on the visits you have planned. As these passes can be quite pricey, they are only worthwhile if you plan on visiting many monuments. We recommend planning your trip at least a little in advance if you want to budget and reduce costs.
If your priority is to visit castles and historic sites in England, the English Heritage pass might be more advantageous, as its offerings focus on these types of sites.
When to visit these castles, the best times
Spring and summer are the ideal times to visit English castles, as the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor grounds. However, some castles can be extremely touristy, which may make the visit less enjoyable, such as Windsor Castle.
Autumn also brings a unique charm, with seasonal colors that add a romantic touch to the landscapes.
During the holiday season, some castles host special events, such as Christmas markets or light displays, and are decorated with thousands of lights, creating a festive and magical atmosphere. It’s worth noting that Christmas is hugely celebrated in the UK, with decorations everywhere! It’s no wonder that London remains one of the favorite Christmas destinations for the French!
