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!
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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
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!
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
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
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!
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
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
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
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
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!
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
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
- Cinderella
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- Mission Impossible
- Dolittle
- 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
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
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
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/
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
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
- Hyde Park
- Princess Diana Memorial Fountain
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Natural History Museum
Important Information:
Admission: £17
There is no on-site parking at 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
