Dotting the landscapes of England and Wales are majestic icons of the past – grand castles constructed of stone that have stood strong for centuries. These imposing fortresses paint a picture of the region’s rich history and serve as windows into eras of kings and queens, knights and battles long ago.
Castles in England
The Castles of England
The Middle Ages in England
The Middle Ages in England span from around 500-1500 AD, covering over 1000 years of English history.
5 Facts About the Tower of London
Discover the rich history and secrets with these 5 fascinating facts about the Tower of London, a symbol of royal power and intrigue for centuries.
The Tower of London
While many castles boast a history of kings and queens, the Tower of London has been a royal residence with a difference.
Windsor Castle
Explore how Windsor Castle evolved through the medieval era to its transformation into the architectural marvel we see today.
Lincoln Castle
Lincoln Castle is a major Norman castle in Lincolnshire, England with a history dating back to 1068.
Nottingham Castle
Perched atop a sandstone outcrop overlooking the city, Nottingham Castle has been a focal point of power and culture for over 950 years.
Hurst Castle
Perched on a shingle spit overlooking the Solent in Hampshire, Hurst Castle is one of the south coast’s most iconic Tudor fortifications.
Dover Castle
Dover Castle was founded in the 1160s under Henry II, who greatly expanded it into a major royal castle.
Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle has withstood sieges, hosted kings and queens, and remains the ancestral home of the noble Percy family to this day.
Bodiam Castle
Standing tall in the countryside of East Sussex is one of England’s most recognizable medieval castles – the mighty Bodiam.
Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle is an iconic historical landmark located in West Sussex, England.
Kenilworth Castle
Kenilworth Castle is one of England’s most iconic medieval castles, with a rich history spanning over 800 years.
Bamburgh Castle
Perched upon a towering outcrop of volcanic rock overlooking Britain’s northeastern shore sits the formidable Bamburgh Castle.
Warkworth Castle
Overlooking the River Coquet, the majestic ruins of Warkworth Castle stand as a powerful reminder of the conflicts that once engulfed Northern England.
Raby Castle
Raby Castle is a medieval castle located in County Durham, England. It has a rich history dating back to the 11th century.
Bolsover Castle
Bolsover Castle exemplifies the English Renaissance style and contains rare examples of elaborate Baroque carved fireplaces and ceilings.
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is an iconic medieval castle located in the village of Corfe in Dorset, England.
From rugged clifftop ruins to sprawling complexes occupied by royalty, the castles of England and Wales invite you to walk along cobbled courtyards, climb winding stone staircases, and marvel at towering keeps. Each castle has its own unique story and architectural details to discover. These structures have borne witness to some of Britain’s most important historical events and intrigues that forever shaped the fate of the nation.
Castles in Wales
The Castles of Wales
Uncovering the Hidden Histories of England and Wales’ Overlooked Castles
Many lesser-known castles around England and Wales have their own unique histories that are fascinating to uncover.
The Enduring Mystique of Welsh Caernarfon Castle
With its long, eventful lifespan over different eras, Caernarfon Castle has accumulated a unique mix of history, myth and legend.
Raglan Castle
The majestic ruins of Raglan Castle still stand as a powerful reminder of medieval history.
Caernarfon Castle: Why it Was Built
Perched dramatically above the River Seiont in North Wales stands the imposing stronghold of Caernarfon Castle.
Ewloe Castle
Ewloe Castle provides a tangible connection to the momentous Welsh struggle for independence in the Middle Ages.
Prestatyn Castle
Prestatyn Castle was a medieval castle situated in the coastal town of Prestatyn in northeast Wales.
Montgomery Castle
Majestically perched atop a rocky hillock in Powys, central Wales stand the ruins of Montgomery Castle.
The Strategic Importance of Welsh Castles in Medieval Times
The medieval tapestry of Wales is rich, vibrant, and punctuated with towering fortresses that dot its landscape.
The Rich History of Caernarfon Castle in North Wales
The original Caernarfon Castle was born out of King Edward I of England’s campaign to conquer North Wales in the late 13th century.
Beaumaris Castle
Beaumaris Castle was built by King Edward I of England during his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century.
Penrhyn Castle
Penrhyn Castle has played an important strategic and historic role in the region for centuries.
Flint Castle
The striking ruins of Flint Castle stand on the estuary banks of the River Dee in northeast Wales.
Bodelwyddan Castle
Bodelwyddan Castle isn’t just another pretty face in the world of Welsh castles.
Denbigh Castle
The elevated site and extensive fortifications of Denbigh Castle allowed England to project formidable power in northeast Wales during the Middle Ages.
The Ultimate Guide to the Evolution of Castles in Wales: From Fortifications to Baroque
From Motte and Bailey to Baroque, explore the evolution of Welsh castles and their cultural significance. Discover more here!
Chirk Castle
Chirk Castle is one of the most famous medieval castles in north Wales, with a long and storied history spanning over 700 years.
Rhuddlan Castle
This article will examine Rhuddlan Castle’s strategic location, construction, features, historical significance and modern archaeological discoveries.
A Guide to the History of Welsh Castles
Welsh castles are more than just architectural wonders, they’re symbols of Welsh identity and strength. Explore their rich history in this guide.
Powis Castle and the Enduring Legacy of the Earls of Powis
Powis Castle is a magnificent medieval castle located near Welshpool in the heart of Powys, Wales.
Ludlow Castle
Perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Teme, Ludlow Castle stands as one of the most recognized and iconic fortifications in Wales.
On a visit to England and Wales, be sure to explore the many magnificent castles found throughout the countries. Wander the halls of power and get lost in days gone by. Delve into tales of sieges and conquests, royal splendor and scandal. Let your imagination transport you back in time within the castle walls. Though centuries have passed, their legacy lives on waiting to be uncovered. Embark on your own quest and uncover the mystifying castles of England and Wales.
