Top 5 Castles around Crossways
Best castles around Crossways, a village in Dorset, England, are situated within a region rich in historical fortifications. The area is known for its diverse landscape, offering a blend of rural charm and proximity to significant historical sites. Woodsford Castle, a notable 14th-century structure, is located directly between Crossways and Dorchester. The wider Dorset area provides access to several other historic castles, each offering distinct historical experiences.
Best castles around Crossways
- The most popular castles is Lulworth Castle, a historical site that originally served as a hunting lodge for aristocracy and royalty. Its exterior has been restored, and some internal rooms are refurbished to display historical life.
- Another must-see spot is Woodsford Castle, a surviving part of a 14th-century castle with one of the largest thatched roofs in the county. It represents a surviving wing of a quadrangular castle, offering a glimpse into medieval architecture.
- Visitors also love Athelhampton Gardens, a 15th-century country house with much of its original Tudor character. It is surrounded by 20 acres of Grade I listed gardens, making it a notable historical and architectural site.
- Crossways is known for its variety of castles, including medieval fortifications, 17th-century hunting lodges, and Tudor mansions. The region offers diverse historical experiences, from dramatic ruins to well-preserved coastal forts.
- The castles around Crossways are appreciated by the komoot community, with 19 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 16, 2026
Woodsford Castle
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Dorchester (Casterbridge in Thomas Hardy's Novels)
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There's historic buildings on either side of you, narrow streets and some really good places to refuel after a ride, especially at Finca!
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Lulworth Castle
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Athelhampton Gardens
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It is surrounded by some 20 acres of gardens originally designed by Inigo Thomas in the 1890s, which are Grade I listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. The house and gardens are privately owned but are open for public visits almost all of the year, and are a member of Historic Houses.
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Lulworth Castle
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Tips from the Community
Lulworth Castle is a prominent historic site in Dorset, England, with a rich history spanning centuries. Built in the early 17th century as a hunting lodge, it has served as a family seat, a venue for royalty, and a tourist attraction, according to the Lulworth Estate. The castle has undergone significant renovations and is now open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into its past and a chance to explore its beautiful grounds, says English Heritage.
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This impressive 17th-century castle originally served as a hunting lodge for the aristocracy and royalty. It is open to visitors. For more information or to book tickets for the visit, you can visit: https://lulworth.com/visit/places-to-visit/castle-and-park/
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Quadrangular castle built in 1370. Not open for visitors but you can stay there. https://www.visit-dorset.com/listing/woodsford/112486301/ & https://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/search-and-book/properties/woodsford-castle-13233/#Overview
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Nice to look at although you cannot go into the grounds. I think you can rent it through the Landmark Trust. Woodsford Castle is a rare survivor of one side of a medieval fortified manor house. Standing near the River Frome the thatched roof is reputed to be the largest in Dorset. There is a convenient to pull in to have look.
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Lulworth is a tiny village that hides a large castle behind the tall trees of the surrounding park. Lulworth Castle was built in 1610 as a hunting lodge. After the French Revolution, this was one of the places where members of the French royal family who had escaped the guillotine found a safe haven. In 1929 it was destroyed by a fire. Nearly 70 years later, it had been restored and opened to the public.
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The hall is a Grade I listed 15th-century country house retaining much of its original Tudor character including a magnificent Great Hall with fine hammerbeam roof, and a recently restored Elizabethan Kitchen with a magnificent fireplace. It is surrounded by some 20 acres of gardens originally designed by Inigo Thomas in the 1890s, which are Grade I listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. The house and gardens are privately owned but are open for public visits almost all of the year, and are a member of Historic Houses.
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This is the surviving part of a 14th-century castle, a rambling wing of great interest and charm, deep in Hardy country just outside Dorchester. Its roof has one of the largest expanses of thatch in the county. Just one side of the quadrangular castle, built in 1370 and probably added to an existing group of buildings, remains today.
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dating from the c14th and the thatch roof is the largest of an inhabited building in the country. Owned by the landmark trust.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles can I visit near Crossways?
Beyond Woodsford Castle, which is very close by, the wider Dorset area offers several significant historical fortifications. These include the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle, the 17th-century Lulworth Castle, and the Tudor mansion of Sherborne Castle. You can also explore the ruins of Sherborne Old Castle, or the coastal forts of Sandsfoot Castle and Portland Castle.
Are there any family-friendly castles in the Crossways area?
Yes, several castles are great for families. Lulworth Castle offers restored rooms and grounds, and often hosts events. Corfe Castle, with its evocative ruins and secret spaces, sparks imagination for all ages. Highcliffe Castle, though newer, has a fascinating history and direct access to a sandy beach and nature reserve, perfect for a family day out.
Which castles offer good walking opportunities or are near nature?
Many castles in the region are set in beautiful natural surroundings. Corfe Castle is surrounded by picturesque countryside, and its village is a great starting point for walks. Sandsfoot Castle and Portland Castle boast waterfront locations with beautiful sea views, ideal for strolls. Highcliffe Castle's grounds provide direct access to a sandy beach and a nature reserve. For more extensive walks, check out the hiking routes around Crossways.
What is unique about Woodsford Castle?
Woodsford Castle is a surviving part of a 14th-century castle, notable for its large three-storey building and one of the largest thatched roofs in Dorset. It offers a glimpse into medieval architecture and has a literary connection, as Thomas Hardy's father worked on its repairs. While generally not open to the public, it can be rented for stays and is easily seen from the road.
Can I visit a castle that was built by Henry VIII near Crossways?
Yes, Sandsfoot Castle and Portland Castle are both 16th-century artillery forts built by Henry VIII to defend the coast. Sandsfoot Castle, near Weymouth, offers impressive remains and beautiful views. Portland Castle is considered one of the best-preserved coastal forts of its era, with interesting exhibits inside.
Are there any castles near Crossways with impressive gardens?
Sherborne Castle (New Castle) is renowned for its magnificent lakeside gardens, designed by Capability Brown. Additionally, Athelhampton Gardens, while a country house rather than a traditional castle, features 20 acres of Grade I listed gardens surrounding a beautiful 15th-century manor.
What kind of historical periods do the castles around Crossways cover?
The castles in the region span several historical periods. You can explore medieval fortifications like Woodsford Castle and Corfe Castle, 16th-century Tudor defenses such as Sandsfoot and Portland Castles, and 17th-century hunting lodges like Lulworth Castle and Sherborne Castle. Highcliffe Castle represents a later, 19th-century Romantic architectural style.
What do komoot visitors enjoy most about the castles near Crossways?
Komoot visitors appreciate the historical significance and architectural details of these sites. For instance, Woodsford Castle is noted for its unique thatched roof and medieval charm. Lulworth Castle is highlighted for its impressive restoration and family-friendly appeal. The overall diversity, from dramatic ruins to well-preserved forts, is also a key draw.
Are there cycling routes near any of these castles?
Yes, the area around Crossways offers various cycling routes that can take you near some of these historical sites. For example, you can find several road cycling and touring bicycle routes that explore the wider Dorset area. You can discover more options and plan your ride by checking out the cycling guides around Crossways.
Which castle offers panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast?
Lulworth Castle allows visitors to climb its tower for panoramic views of the Purbeck countryside and parts of the Jurassic Coast. Corfe Castle also provides stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape from its elevated position.
Is there a castle near Crossways that is a 'hidden gem' or less crowded?
While popular castles like Corfe and Lulworth attract many visitors, Sherborne Old Castle, a 12th-century ruin, offers a more tranquil and romantic experience. It's less developed than its 'New' counterpart and is home to diverse wildlife, providing a peaceful exploration of ancient history.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Dorset?
Spring and summer generally offer the best weather for exploring the castles and their grounds, with longer daylight hours and pleasant temperatures. However, visiting in autumn can provide beautiful foliage, and some castles, like Corfe, can be particularly atmospheric in winter, though opening hours may vary. Always check specific castle websites for seasonal opening times.
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