Castles

Castles

We care for more castles than anybody else.

From Norman earthworks to mighty royal fortresses and from Cornwall to Northumberland, these castles and forts tell the turbulent and often surprising story of power, war and siege in England.

Explore the history of castles through time, learn more about medieval life, and plan a memorable day out at a castle near you. 

Why we love them

Wherever you are in England, you're never far from one of our castles. The mighty walls of these fortresses have stood proud for many centuries, protecting notable historical figures from advancing armies - but now many of them are at risk again.

Your help is urgently needed to conserve the castles in our care, so that we can continue to offer spectacular days out long into the future.

Get involved

  • Visit a castle

    Use our map to explore more than 100 castles, forts and defences you can visit for yourself. From Henry VIII's revolutionary artillery forts to beautiful fortified homes such as Kenilworth and Stokesay Castles, each has its own story to tell.

  • Share your experiences

    Which is your favourite English castle? Somewhere that holds special memories? Or a favourite spot for exploring and getting lost? Share your stories and photos from England's castles with @englishheritage on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

We asked our Facebook followers to share their favourite castles in England. Scroll to see the nation's favourites...

We asked our Facebook followers to share their favourite castles in England. Scroll to see the nation's favourites...

We asked our Facebook followers to share their favourite castles in England. Scroll to see the nation's favourites...
YOUR FAVOURITE CASTLES
Dover Castle, Kent "Beautiful castle, amazing secret wartime tunnels, fantastic backdrop of countryside meeting the sea. Not to mention the incredible events."

Dover Castle, Kent "Beautiful castle, amazing secret wartime tunnels, fantastic backdrop of countryside meeting the sea. Not to mention the incredible events."

Dover Castle, Kent "Beautiful castle, amazing secret wartime tunnels, fantastic backdrop of countryside meeting the sea. Not to mention the incredible events."
Dover Castle
Portchester Castle, Hampshire "Portchester has everything: history, harbour, church, ramparts, views for miles, family friendly events and even cricket in the grounds."

Portchester Castle, Hampshire "Portchester has everything: history, harbour, church, ramparts, views for miles, family friendly events and even cricket in the grounds."

Portchester Castle, Hampshire "Portchester has everything: history, harbour, church, ramparts, views for miles, family friendly events and even cricket in the grounds."
Portchester Castle

Castles Through Time

What makes a castle, a castle? 

Think of a castle and you'll probably imagine a classic medieval keep. But castles come in many shapes and sizes, and some might surprise you.

Explore the evolution of England's defences, from prehistoric hillforts to the underground tunnels where the Dunkirk evacuation was masterminded. 

Explore the timeline

Castle walks and hikes

Explore the landscapes of England's castles and forts with our series of walking guides. Enjoy the short scenic stroll from Helmsley Castle to beautiful Rievaulx Abbey, or take on a more challenging hike atop the White Cliffs of Dover to discover two of Henry VIII's revolutionary device forts.

Our guides include step-by-step directions, all the essential information plus tips to make the most of your day out on the trail.

Walking Guides
The roof terrace of Peverell's Tower holiday cottage at Dover Castle

Stay at a castle

Be king or queen of your own castle when you stay in one of our luxurious on-site holiday cottages. With free entry and access to the grounds after closing time, the castle becomes yours to explore. 

Stay at Pendennis or St Mawes in Falmouth, Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight, Walmer Castle in Kent, the mighty Dover Castle and many more. 

Find a holiday cottage
A Mini Guide to Medieval Castles | Animated History

Videos A Mini Guide to Medieval Castles

Discover how castles developed during the middle ages. We trace their evolution from early motte and bailey castles in Norman times to the sophisticated structures of the late medieval period, and explain why castles were as much about status as defence.

Discover how castles developed during the middle ages. We trace their evolution from early motte and bailey castles in Norman times to the sophisticated structures of the late medieval period, and explain why castles were as much about status as defence.

A Mini Guide to Medieval Castles
How to Make a Cardboard Castle
How to Take a Medieval Castle

More to explore

  • All our castles

    See our full list of castles, forts and defences across the country and find one to visit near you today.

  • Histories of medieval castles

    England’s castles are theatres of history. Explore the stories of the country's medieval marvels. 

  • Family Guides

    Our practical guides have everything you need to plan a day out for the whole family at one of our castles.

  • Prepare for adventure

    Get set for your visit to a historic castle with our sword and shield craft guides for little knights.

  • Castle gifts and games

    Explore our range of castle-themed products, including the exclusive Castles Monopoly.

  • Join and save

    Join English Heritage and enjoy unlimited access to 400 historic sites.