Top 20 Castles around London

For a deep dive into British history, the Tower of London offers nearly 1,000 years of tales as a royal palace, prison, and armory. Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, provides unparalleled insight into the monarchy. Hampton Court Palace also offers an immersive journey into the lives of Tudor and Stuart monarchs, particularly Henry VIII.

Yes, several castles are great for families. The Tower of London, Windsor Castle, and Kensington Palace and Gardens are all listed as family-friendly. Hampton Court Palace, with its Tudor kitchens, maze, and interactive exhibits, is also a fantastic option for all ages.

Many castles are set within beautiful natural surroundings. Knole House and Deer Park features a 1,000-acre deer park, perfect for strolling. Kensington Palace and Gardens offers vast green spaces and curated Italian Gardens. Severndroog Castle, an 18th-century Gothic folly, provides exceptional panoramic views across London from Shooter's Hill.

The region around London's castles offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the Thames Path loop or the Tamsin Trail in Richmond Park. There are also gravel biking routes like the Epping Forest loop, and even waterfall hikes around London. For more details on routes, explore the running trails, gravel biking, and waterfall hikes guides.

Yes, Windsor Castle is easily accessible by public transport. It's located just outside London in Berkshire. You can find detailed information on how to get there and plan your visit on the official Windsor website: windsor.gov.uk.

Windsor Castle is a popular choice for a day trip, offering a blend of historical grandeur and living royal tradition. Hampton Court Palace is also ideal, providing an immersive journey into Tudor and Stuart history with its well-preserved architecture and extensive gardens.

Beyond the major landmarks, consider Severndroog Castle, an 18th-century Gothic folly on Shooter's Hill with panoramic views. Eltham Palace is another unique architectural gem, combining medieval royal remnants with a striking 1930s Art Deco mansion. Also, the Leptis Magna Ruins at Virginia Water, constructed from real Roman stones, offer a beguiling sight.

While castles are generally open year-round, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring grounds and gardens without the peak summer crowds. Many castles, like the Tower of London and Windsor Castle, remain open in winter, often with special seasonal events, providing a different, often less crowded, experience.

Visitors frequently praise the immersive historical experience, the stunning architecture, and the expansive grounds. The engaging guided tours, like those offered by the Yeoman Warders at the Tower of London, and the ceremonial events such as the Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle, are also highly appreciated.

Hampton Court Palace is a prime example, showcasing a stunning blend of Tudor and Baroque architectural styles due to extensive renovations over centuries. Eltham Palace also stands out for its unique combination of medieval royal palace remnants with a striking 1930s Art Deco mansion.

Yes, the magnificent Crown Jewels are housed at the Tower of London. This spectacular display of royal ceremonial objects is a major highlight for visitors.

Windsor Castle holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, continuously inhabited by the British Royal Family for almost a millennium and serving as a home to 40 monarchs.