Acton Burnell Castle is currently closed while we carry out emergency tree works at the site. We hope to reopen as soon.
Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours
Address:
Acton Burnell, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY5 7PE
Tucked away in a quiet part of Shropshire is the graceful red sandstone shell of Acton Burnell Castle. It was built between 1284 and 1293 by Bishop Burnell, Edward I's Lord Chancellor, and Parliaments were held here twice, in 1283 and 1285. By 1420, the castle was abandoned, and it was allowed to decay while a new house, Acton Burnell Hall, was built beside it. Nonetheless, the castle remains an impressive example of a medieval fortified manor house.
Read more about the history of Acton Burnell Castle.
Before You Go
Opening Times: Open during any reasonable daylight hours. Please note the adjacent college closes the gates to the access road at dusk each day.
Access: From the car park the castle can be reached through a gate leading to a short wooded walk, which then opens out on a flat grassed site.
Parking: There is free parking for five cars and one minibus at the entrance to the site.
Facilities: There are no facilities onsite. Acton Burnell Castle is located approximately 8 miles from the market town of Shrewsbury, which has a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Please do not climb on the walls.
Plan a Great Day Out
If you want to make a day of it, nearby Langley Chapel is a short scenic drive from Acton Burnell Castle, and Wroxeter Roman City is also nearby. It was once the fourth largest city in Roman Britain, and today it offers a fascinating glimpse into urban life 2,000 years ago.
The unforgettably picturesque Stokesay Castle is about 17 miles away. It is the finest and best-preserved medieval fortified manor house in England. An audio tour helps you to imagine Stokesay as a centre of medieval life, and the tearoom serves a delicious range of light savoury snacks, homemade cakes and cream teas.
