Discover Castles in britain

Your Guide to some of the best castles in the world


Britain has a unique castle heritage. Traces of its rich and varied past can be found all over the British Isles, reflected in the marvellous wealth of historical monuments scattered throughout the country.

This Website is an exploration of some of the most outstanding castles in England, Scotland and Wales.

Discover Castles is an independent travel guide packed with all the information you need to make the most of your castle visit and will provide you with lots to explore and enjoy!

Which castle is your favourite?


how many castles?


William the Conqueror brought castles to Britain when he invaded England in 1066. After his victory he ordered the construction of very simple castles, called Motte and Bailey castles. They were just earthen mounds, topped by a tower.

Later, stone castles were built, as they were much more sturdy and offered protection to withstand attacks by enemies.

Over the centuries, much more elaborate castles were constructed, used by the kings, and also by the kings most loyal subjects, like knights and barons, who fought in battle and supported their king.

By the 15th century castles were no longer useful as a place of defence and emphasis was given to more comfortable living conditions. By 1650, with the development of firearms and gunpowder, the great castles had outlived their purpose and fell into decline.

How many castles are there in England, Scotland and Wales?

It is hard to imagine but from the time of the Norman conquest there were once over 4000 castles in England alone. Hundreds of castles have since been destroyed or have fallen into disrepair and are now just ruins. To date there may be around 300 castles scattered along the UK coastline and countryside that are worth visiting.

Wales is often called " The Land of Castles " and had over 600 of them. Some have been beautifully restored and others are still standing as ruins, often in commanding positions.

Nobody really know for sure how many castles there are in Scotland, estimates range from 2000 to 4000 castles. In reality a lot of these castles are no longer visible as their remains have faded into history but there are plenty that have stood the test of time.

Let us visit the most famous, most picturesque and most notorious of them all.


Plan your castle visit


England, Scotland and Wales are full of Medieval Castles, Ancient Fortifications and Castle Ruins.

Various Heritage Organisations help protect and care for these unique historic buildings and landscapes and organize special Castle Events throughout the year.

The National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation charity, cares for hundreds of historic houses and gardens and miles of coastline and countryside.

English Heritage, as a registered charity, also manages over 400 historic sites and monuments across England. As a member you get free admission to English Heritage properties plus discounted admission to Historic Scotland and Cawd properties in Scotland and Wales.


National trust

ENGLISH HERITAGE

It’s well worth becoming a member. Benefits include free admission to hundreds of properties and free or reduced price admission to their Special Events held throughout the year.


STEP BACK IN TIME


A castle was a fortress and a home for its Lords and Ladies, Knights, Soldiers and Servants.

In times of conflict and siege these fortresses were dangerous places, but castles were also full of ceremony and pomp and entertainment.

Many British castles have a dark past, with tales of spooky sightings and mysterious occurrences. Look out for haunted castles steeped in legend.

CASTLE LIFE

HAUNTED CASTLES

CASTLE  RUINS

Let’s start our castle adventure...