Top 5 Castles around Atworth
Castles around Atworth offers a selection of historical sites in the surrounding area, though Atworth itself is a village known for buildings like its 1897 clock tower and evidence of Roman presence. While no prominent historical castles are directly within Atworth, the region provides access to several notable historical structures. These sites offer insights into medieval history and architectural design.
Best castles around Atworth
- The most popular castles is Farleigh Hungerford Castle, a castle that was a medieval 14th-century…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Farleigh Hungerford Castle
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The Sham Ruin
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Great Chalfield Manor
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Lacock Abbey Cloisters and South Lawn
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These ruins are known as the "Sham Ruin" or "The Folly" and was purposed built to look like a ruined castle to block views of neighboring houses and enhance the landscape. Built around 1797–1798 by architect John Nash, despite its intentionally precarious, ruined appearance—specifically the, large stones balanced at an angle—it is a solid, substantial 60-foot-high wall.
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Check on tour times if you want to look around the house - well worth it. About 45 mins.
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I don’t usually like audio guides but this was really well done. Interesting castle history, but also the characters and stories. And the chapel at the end is an excellent finale. I spent almost an hour here. No cafe but you can get tea/coffee/ ice cream. A good stop!
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Great Chalfield is a beautiful medieval manor house surrounded by lush gardens and scenic countryside. Built around 1480 for Thomas Tropenell, a distinguished lawyer and landowner, the moated house is a Grade I listed property. Now owned by the National Trust, it has appeared in various films and TV shows, such as The Other Boleyn Girl, Tess of the d'Ubervilles, and Wolf Hall. Fans of Poldark will recognize it as Killewarran House.
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A castle with a family history from 1160 to today. The family tree is simply gigantic.
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Cute historic high street with nice pubs and cafes. Pedestrian only area in the south. Watch out for peacocks.
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National Trust Great Chalfield manor and gardens. Paid entry, NT members free. Open 3rd April to 30th October. Tue, Wed and Thurs 11:00 - 17:00. Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Small café onsite.
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Started in the 14th century, and occupied by the Hungerford family for 300 years, Farleigh Hungerford Castle (now looked after by English Heritage) commands an impressive position overlooking the peaceful Frome Valley on the Wiltshire/Somerset border.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical sites can I expect to find around Atworth?
While Atworth itself doesn't host prominent historical castles, the surrounding region offers a variety of historical structures. You can explore genuine medieval fortifications like Farleigh Hungerford Castle, moated manor houses such as Great Chalfield Manor, and even architectural follies like The Sham Ruin.
Are there any genuine medieval castles near Atworth?
Yes, Farleigh Hungerford Castle is a genuine medieval 14th-century fortification located near Atworth. It's a Scheduled Ancient Monument owned by English Heritage and offers insights into the turbulent history of the Hungerford family.
What is <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2657187" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sham Ruin</a> and why was it built?
The Sham Ruin, also known as "The Folly," was purpose-built around 1797–1798 by architect John Nash. It was designed to resemble a ruined castle, intended to block views of neighboring houses and enhance the landscape of the estate.
Are the historical sites around Atworth family-friendly?
Yes, several sites are family-friendly. Farleigh Hungerford Castle and Great Chalfield Manor are both listed as family-friendly. Lacock Abbey Cloisters and South Lawn is also a great option for families, known for its use in films like Harry Potter.
What are the opening hours and admission costs for <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/428212" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Farleigh Hungerford Castle</a>?
Farleigh Hungerford Castle is typically open 10am - 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Admission costs £5.70 per adult. For the most current information, it's best to check the English Heritage website.
Can I visit <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/428214" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Great Chalfield Manor</a>?
Yes, Great Chalfield Manor is owned by the National Trust and is open to visitors. It typically operates from April to October, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11:00 to 17:00, and Sundays from 13:00 to 17:00. Admission costs £5, with National Trust members entering for free. There is also a small café on-site.
Are there walking trails or outdoor activities near these historical sites?
Yes, the area around Atworth offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy, moderate, and difficult options. For example, there are routes like the 'Avoncliff Bridge – The Glove Factory Café loop' or the 'Browns Folly Tower – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop'. You can explore more hiking options in the Hiking around Atworth guide or Easy hikes around Atworth guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and historical sites near Atworth?
Visitors appreciate the well-preserved ruins of Farleigh Hungerford Castle and the impressive entrance. Great Chalfield Manor is loved for its stunning medieval architecture, manicured gardens, and its appearance in popular films and TV series. The unique concept of The Sham Ruin also captures interest.
Are there any historical sites near Atworth that have been featured in films?
Yes, Great Chalfield Manor has been a popular filming location, appearing in productions like The Other Boleyn Girl, Tess of the d'Ubervilles, and Wolf Hall. Poldark fans might recognize it as Killewarran House. Additionally, Lacock Abbey Cloisters and South Lawn is famous for its use in Harry Potter films.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and historical sites around Atworth?
The spring and summer months (April to October) are generally ideal for visiting, as sites like Great Chalfield Manor are fully open during this period, and the gardens are in full bloom. The weather is also more conducive for exploring the outdoor ruins of Farleigh Hungerford Castle and enjoying nearby walking trails.
Are there options for gravel biking near the castles around Atworth?
Yes, the region offers several gravel biking routes. You can find options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Bristol and Bath Railway Path – The Two Tunnels Greenway loop' or the 'Imber Range Path – View from Westbury White Horse loop'. More details are available in the Gravel biking around Atworth guide.
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