Days Out at Castles in England

Castles Pendennis Spring

Enjoy a great family day out at one of our beautiful castles this spring. We currently have over 90 spectacular castles in our care - so whether you're in the mood to explore a romantic ruin or uncover the history of one of England's greatest fortresses, there are plenty of opportunities for great days out right across the length and breadth of the country.

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Castles in England

  • Cornwall: Legends, seaside castles and family days out
  • Kent: Mighty fortresses and secret tunnels
  • Midlands: Royal love stories and beautiful gardens
  • Northumberland: Romantic ruins and stunning coastal views

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Places to visit

Dover Castle
Dover Castle

Kent | South East

For a great family day out visit Dover Castle! New: Operation Dynamo: Rescue from Dunkirk. Explore the Secret Wartime Tunnels deep beneath the castle to see, hear and feel - as never before!

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Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden
Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden

Warwickshire | West Midlands

Robert Dudley created this ornate palace to impress his beloved Queen in 1575. The newly re-created Elizabethan Garden, lost for 400 years, is now open to visitors. Vast grounds perfect for exploring.

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Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle

Cornwall | South West

Tintagel Castle is a magical day with its wonderful location, set high on the rugged North Cornwall coast. It offers dramatic views, fascinating ruins and a stunning beach café.

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Carlisle Castle
Carlisle Castle

Cumbria | North West

Carlisle Castle was a constantly updated working fortress until well within living memory. Now its rich and varied visitor attractions reflect its long and eventful history.

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Framlingham Castle
Framlingham Castle

Suffolk | East of England

Framlingham Castle is a magnificent 12th century fortress with a long and colourful past which makes a fascinating family day out in Suffolk.

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Bolsover Castle
Bolsover Castle

Derbyshire | East Midlands

'By an unlikely miracle, the keep at Bolsover has survived into this century as an almost untouched expression in stone of the lost world of Elizabethan chivalry and romance.'

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Events

WWII Weekend
WWII Weekend
Venue: Dover Castle, Kent
Date: Sat 25 - Mon 27 May 2013 (bank holiday)

Dover castle's popular WWII weekend is back with a bang, so come along and witness an explosive WWII battle. Soak up the atmosphere as the castle returns to 1940's. Walk through military encampments and get up close to a full size replica spitfire.

Kings and Queens Trail
Kings and Queens Trail
Venue: Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire
Date: Sat 25 May - Sun 2 Jun 2013 (bank holiday)

Can you solve the royal quest? Find the hidden clues in the grounds to reveal the royal connection. A special prize will be rewarded to all those regal enough to complete the challenge!

Cavendish's Horses Return!
Cavendish's Horses Return!
Venue: Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
Date: Sat 25 & Sun 26 May 2013

For the first time in over three centuries visitors will witness breathtaking displays of the advanced dressage techniques championed by William Cavendish. Every weekend from Easter until September unique performances will take place twice daily.
Costumes from Austen
Costumes from Austen
Venue: Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland
Date: Sat 25 May - Mon 26 Aug 2013 (excluding Sat 3 & Sun 4 Aug 2013)

Belsay Hall plays host to displays of a fabulous collection of costumes from a variety of Jane Austen film and TV productions. See the infamous shirt worn by Colin Firth in TV’s Pride and Prejudice, Gwyneth Paltrow’s dress from Emma and many more.

Regency Revival
Regency Revival
Venue: Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland
Date: Sat 25 & Sun 26 May 2013

To celebrate the opening of the “Costumes from Austen” display of TV and film costumes, we bring together both the genteel and graceful side of Regency society with the dramatic and theatrical side.

Springtime Family Fun Trail
Springtime Family Fun Trail
Venue: Goodrich Castle, Herefordshire
Date: Sat 25 May - Sun 2 Jun 2013 (bank holiday)

Spring into action with our family trail this Half Term! Track down all the clues hidden around the grounds, solve the riddle and claim your chocolate prize!
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