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The castle and catkins around the moat at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex
Catkins around the moat at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex | © National Trust Images/Gesine Garz

Castles and forts

Royalty, wars and even ghosts – the castles we care for have seen it all. Step back in time when you visit one of these historic buildings, and see what you can discover.

Top castles to visit

A family picnicking at Wray Castle, Cumbria
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Family-friendly castles to visit 

Looking for enchanting family days out? Look no further than these fairy-tale castles, perfect for days out with little knights and dragon-slayers.

Exterior view of Bodiam Castle surrounded by its moat in winter, East Sussex
Place
Place

Bodiam Castle 

With its full moat, original wooden portcullis, murder holes, spiral staircases and battlements, Bodiam Castle offers a tantalising glimpse of the 14th century. Check dates for tours and talks.

near Robertsbridge, East Sussex

Fully open today
View of the rocky crag and causeway below Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland, taken at low tide
Place
Place

Lindisfarne Castle 

A castle (that’s not a castle), on an island (that’s not an island).

Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland

Fully open today
The exterior of Penrhyn Castle on a sunny day
Place
Place

Penrhyn Castle 

This Norman-inspired fortified country house was built in the early 19th century. Inside, opulence reigns, with playfully decorated furnishings, oak, ebony, marble and local slate.

Bangor, Gwynedd

Fully open today

Castles and forts near you

    Visitors walking among daffodils at Dora's Field, Ambleside, Cumbria

    Where will you visit next?

    Discover lots of gardens, historic houses, days out at the coast and more.