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If you’re going to the UK, you really should get a taste of something you can’t get at home, and I’m not talking about baked beans (though they are pretty delicious).
With many centuries of architectural history, the UK has over 4,000 castle sites spread across the country. Depending on your itinerary, here are five well worth considering.
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The Tower of London
The Tower of London must be one of the most famous castles in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Tower holds the English Crown jewels, many fascinating stories, and layers upon layers of rich history.
Photo by Juhi Sewchurran on Unsplash
Tower of London History
Booking a Yeoman Warder or “Beefeater” tour is highly recommended if you have older children. The experience takes you to key locations in the Tower, and guides share many of the fascinating stories of murder, betrayal, and political intrigue. This is the site where Anne Boleyn was executed after being accused of adultery by Henry VIII, and where the soon-to-be Queen Elizabeth I was imprisoned by her suspicious older sister, Mary Queen of Scots. One of the most infamous stories of the young Princes who mysteriously disappeared during the War of the Roses after being placed in the Tower for their own protection by their uncle, who handily inherited the throne after their disappearance. I remember relishing such stories when on my first visit to the Tower as a nine-year-old, but visitors should be aware that younger children may find some of the stories frightening.
Other notable experiences include a river tour with panoramic views and more spellbinding storytelling, walking the castle walls, object handling, and live historical performances.
Windsor Castle
If you are based in London, visiting Windsor Castle makes for a fantastic day trip as it is easily accessible, only about 35 minutes on the train from London Paddington. It’s well worth the effort, considering this is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and holds many years of royal history.
Photo by Tomasz Zielonka on Unsplash
History And Current Use Of Windsor Castle
Established by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, over 40 Monarchs have made Windsor Castle their home. St George’s Chapel is the burial ground of 11 Kings and Queens, including Queen Elizabeth II, who was raised here. It has also hosted many royal weddings, most recently that of Prince Harry and Megan Markle in 2018.
As this is still a working royal palace, the impressive state rooms are still used for ceremonial purposes and official entertaining. As such, they are filled with artwork, treasures, and lavish furnishings, all on display for public viewing.
Photo by E Mens on Unsplash
If you want to avoid the chaos of Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle is also a good alternative for seeing the Changing of the Guard. Check times before you go to make sure your visit will coincide with the ceremony on the day you plan to visit.
Photo by Lorena Kelly on Unsplash
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Old Scotney Castle
Plucked straight from a fairy tale and planted in the Kent countryside, Scotney Castle has been on my bucket list for a while and has to be one of the most beautiful castles in the country. This National Trust castle sits on a 780-acre estate, surrounded by an enchanting moat, the most beautiful gardens, and ancient woodland. There are many layers of history here that give the site a romantic feel.
History of Old Scotney Castle
The medieval castle dates back to 1378, built to defend against French raids along the English coast. All that remains of this ancient castle now lies in ruins, but the original castle walls and round tower form the backdrop to the ‘picturesque’ gardens, considered one of the finest examples of the style in England. The remains of old windows and entryways give glimpses of the foliage beyond, framed perfectly like works of art.
Photo by Steve Payne on Unsplash
The more recently built manor house dates back to 1837, and families can take a guided tour to step back in time and see what life would have been like here.
Photo by Sean Ferigan on Unsplash
Ways For Families To Explore Scotney Castle
For our family, no day out is complete without a coffee stop and a babyccino for our three-year-old daughter. The cafe is the perfect spot for it, set in a lovely courtyard and serving delicious food and drinks. On a nice day, it would be lovely to take a picnic and have a read in the gardens or woodland. A second-hand bookstore by the Visitor’s entrance has a children’s corner and sells children’s books starting at 50p, and adult books starting at 1 pound.
Photo by Steve Payne on Unsplash
There are two outdoor play areas for children. The Badger and Pepper play area is perfect for younger explorers, including a mud kitchen (my daughter’s favorite activity), playhouse, toddler swing, and ball run. The perfect spot to burn off some energy outdoors. The Wilderness Camp in Colliers Woods is perfect for making dens amongst the trees and giving older children a chance to be wild and creative in the forest. There are also regular events you can sign up for, including children’s photography workshops, outdoor theater experiences, and seasonal events such as Easter egg hunts and traditional Morris dancing on May Day.
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Georgian House is a lovely family-friendly hotel with whimsical-themed rooms (including their Wizard Chambers!). It makes for an exciting base in London to explore the city and nearby attractions.
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Tintagel Castle
Shrouded in legend and perched high above the sea on an isolated headland, there is a sense of magic and mystery to Tintagel Castle.
A door to a fairy tale. Photo by Alina Bwy
Tintagel Castle History
The castle dates back to early medieval times and is famous as the birthplace of King Arthur, according to Geoffrey of Monmouth’s 12th-century mythological history of Britain.
At the very edge of the island on which the castle sits, framed by the dramatic backdrop of the sea, is the Gallos sculpture, the ghostly figure of an unnamed king. Often called the King Arthur sculpture, he makes a fun companion for an atmospheric family photo. There are also the remains of the medieval settlement to explore, and a fascinating retelling of the legend of Tristan and Isolde to read on engraved stepping stones as you wander around the medieval walled garden.
Who was that king? Photo by Alina Bwy
A timeless treasure. Photo by Alina Bwy
Don’t Miss!
It’s worth taking the time to explore the small beach at the foot of the cliffs, where a small waterfall spills out onto the sand, and little feet can splash around. Here you will also find Merlin’s Cave, complete with a relief of the famous wizard’s head carved into the wall beside the cave. Exploring the cave, you will find small tidepools and can spot small ocean creatures in the dim light, fun for all the family.
Buy tickets in advance to expedite entry!
Where to Stay In Tintagel Village
If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the area with a historic theme, The King Arthur’s Arms is an award-winning, cozy pub and hotel located in the heart of Tintagel Village. It’s easy to explore the village from the hotel, and they also have an outstanding food menu, which is not to be missed.
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Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh is such a fascinating and lively city that it makes sense to include a stop here on any travel itinerary that involves Scotland. Edinburgh Castle is the second-most-visited attraction in Scotland, and for good reason. Sitting on a hill, the castle’s strategic location offers panoramic views over the city. This magnificent castle was a royal residence for many centuries, has a rich military history, and many stories to tell, dating back to the 11th century.
This castle has more stories than it shows. Photo by E Mens on Unsplash
Ways For Families To Explore The History Of Edinburgh Castle
There are many activities at the castle that will appeal to families. The Honours of Scotland are on display in the Crown Room and are the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. The Great Hall is an exemplary medieval hall, decorated with armour and weaponry, a must-see for those interested in military and medieval history. The Fight for the Castle is an exciting immersive exhibition that guides participants through the experience of Edinburgh Castle during the Wars for Independence. Older kids will also be fascinated to learn more about the vaults beneath the castle in the Prisons of War exhibition, which includes the history of pirates and prisoners taken and held during wartime. The Regimental Museum and National War Museum tell more of the story of the castle’s history as a garrison and the most besieged castle in Britain. If you time your visit for the afternoon, you can also witness the One o’Clock Gun. The firing of the gun dates back to 1861 and was originally used to set maritime clocks aboard ships. But don’t worry if you miss this at the castle, the gun can be heard across the city.
A place to start the Edinburgh journey. Photo by Connor Mollison on Unsplash
Where to Stay In Edinburgh
As Edinburgh is a city best explored on foot, you can’t beat the location of The Old Waverley Hotel. The rooms are very comfortable and there is a great food menu.
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