England’s castles are more than just historical landmarks - they are gateways to the past, each with a story to tell. Some transport you to the heart of medieval battles, where knights once clashed arms and royalty ruled; others offer glimpses into legendary tales, filled with myths, romance, and centuries-old secrets. From dramatic ruins perched on coastal cliffs to grand estates surrounded by stunning gardens, there's no shortage of castles to visit in England.

This post highlights four of England's must-visit castles, each offering something unique. Whether you love history, legends, or simply exploring stunning sights, these locations promise unforgettable experiences for individuals and families alike. Read on to discover why they deserve to be part of your next adventure.

Table of Contents

Dover Castle

Warwick Castle

Tintagel Castle

Sudeley Castle

General Recommendations

Dover Castle

Perched high above the English Channel, Dover Castle is one of England’s most impressive and historically significant fortresses. Known as the "Key to England," it has stood for over 900 years as a guardian of the nation’s southeastern coastline.

Built by Henry II in the 12th century, Dover Castle played a crucial role in defending England from from medieval sieges. It was also used as a command center during World War II. Today, visitors can explore its mighty Great Tower, where immersive exhibits bring the medieval court to life. Additionally, guests can venture into the wartime tunnels, visit a ruined 1st century AD Roman lighthouse, and pay respects at the Anglo-Saxon church of St Mary in Castro.

Notably, Dover Castle also has strong connections to Canterbury Cathedral. Pilgrims traveling to Canterbury often passed through Dover, and the castle played a role in protecting the route between the coast and the cathedral. Visiting both sites offers a deeper understanding of England’s medieval history, from royal power to religious influence.

Personally, I found Dover Castle and Canterbury Cathedral to pair exceptionally well and highly recommend seeing both during the same trip. There's a lot of shared history that makes so much more sense when examined together.

For those who prefer combining history with stunning landscapes, a trip to the nearby White Cliffs of Dover is recommended. Less than a 10-minute drive away, the National Trust provides parking, restrooms, a café, and a shop for this stunning landmark. A walk along the cliffs offers breathtaking views of the coastline, and even France on a clear day.

Whether you’re fascinated by military history, medieval architecture, or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, Dover Castle is a must-visit destination. Combining it with Canterbury Cathedral and/or the White Cliffs makes for a truly memorable journey through England’s rich past and spectacular scenery.

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is one of England’s most exciting and immersive historic sites, blending over 1,000 years of history with thrilling entertainment and breathtaking scenery. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, the castle has witnessed centuries of battles, sieges, and royal intrigue. Today, it offers a truly unforgettable experience, where medieval history comes to life in spectacular fashion.

One of the highlights for families and history lovers alike is the Horrible Histories Maze. While it’s a fun, interactive adventure for kids, it’s also packed with fascinating historical facts that make it just as engaging for adults. As you navigate through its winding paths, you’ll journey through different time periods, encountering everything from Viking raids to the Tudors.

A little warning - English history is pretty bloody. My husband and I were surprised by how intense some of the facts along the path were, despite being presented as "kid-friendly."

Although we always enjoy the maze and adjoining gardens, our favorite activity at Warwick Castle is the Falconer’s Quest bird show. It is nothing short of breathtaking. Watching magnificent birds of prey - including various eagles, vultures, and owls - soar over the castle’s grounds in an expertly choreographed display is a truly emotional experience. In fact, my husband and I have both been moved to tears every time we see it.

In warmer seasons, there are also jousting tournaments and actors in medieval garb to help bring the age of chivalry to life. Additionally, younger patrons can take advantage of archery and sword lessons!

If you prefer a quieter escape, however, the Peacock Garden is the perfect spot. The Conservatory Tea House overlooks this beautifully maintained space, where elegant peacocks roam freely. We always make a point to stop and enjoy this enchanting atmosphere - plus, it's proven to be a great place for photos!

Warwick Castle also features a Dungeon experience similar to the London Dungeon, offering a spine-chilling journey through the castle’s darker past. It’s especially thrilling at Halloween when the entire castle is transformed with eerie decorations and special seasonal events.

It's easily the most engaging and activity-centric castle we've visited in all of England. Warwick has just about everything, which is why I recommend it above all others if your time in the country is limited. Although the castle alone can easily fill an entire day, it's close proximity to Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare's hometown) is also worth noting. Combining the two can make for an incredible historic getaway in the heart of England.

Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is one of the most magical and atmospheric historical sites in England, blending breathtaking coastal scenery with legendary tales and medieval ruins. Perched dramatically on the rugged cliffs of Cornwall, this iconic site has been linked to the legend of King Arthur for centuries. Though the actual history of the castle dates back to the 13th century when it was built by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, the area has long been associated with Arthurian mythology.

One of the most striking features of the site is the Gallos statue, a haunting bronze figure representing King Arthur. Standing on the cliff’s edge, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it serves as a powerful tribute to the enduring legend of the once and future king. Tintagel also has connections to the tragic romance of Tristan and Isolde, adding another layer of myth to its already mystical setting.

The castle ruins themselves are incredible to explore, as is the modern Tintagel Bridge connecting sections of the site for easier navigation. The sweeping coastline, rolling green hills, and dramatic cliffs are also something to behold. We always take extra time to wander the nearby trails, where the sound of crashing waves and seabirds enhances the sense of timelessness.

Beyond the castle, the town of Tintagel is a charming place to visit. Its quaint streets are filled with unique shops selling Arthurian souvenirs, local crafts, and delicious treats. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Cornish pasty, a must-try when visiting Cornwall.

With its fascinating history, breathtaking landscape, and charming village atmosphere, Tintagel Castle is an unforgettable destination that feels like stepping into a legend.

Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle offers a truly enchanting experience, combining rich history, royal connections, and some of the most breathtaking gardens in England. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, this castle is undoubtedly the most refined and elegant of my recommendations, offering a glimpse into a more aristocratic side of English heritage.

With origins dating back over 1,000 years, Sudeley has played host to some of England’s most famous figures, including Richard III and Queen Elizabeth I. Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII, is also buried on the castle grounds. Despite its long and sometimes turbulent history, Sudeley remains beautifully preserved. It offers visitors a perfectly balanced opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts.

The gardens at Sudeley are simply unparalleled. We spent hours wandering through them, and they are arguably the finest we’ve ever visited. Each space, from the romantic Queen’s Garden to the peaceful White Garden, is meticulously designed and bursting with seasonal color.

The castle’s unique history even includes a rather unusual resident - a pet badger once kept by the owners - adding a quirky touch to its aristocratic past.

For those who love exploring beyond the castle walls, there are also scenic trails nearby that lead to ancient sites and hidden gems in the surrounding countryside. A peaceful walk through the rolling Cotswold hills offers a perfect balance to the grandeur of Sudeley itself.

Whether you’re drawn to its royal connections, stunning gardens, or the opportunity to meander through the picturesque landscape, Sudeley Castle is a truly special destination. It’s a place where history, beauty, and nature come together, making it a must-visit for those seeking a more refined yet equally captivating castle experience.

General English Castle Recommendations

Consider the English Heritage Membership

English Heritage oversees many historic sites in England, including Dover Castle and Tintagel Castle. If you plan on visiting several locations, it may be worth becoming members of the organization. English Heritage members are entitled to free admission and parking, shop discounts, and access to special events. Additionally, members pay less for tickets to associated attractions, such as Warwick Castle. You can learn more about English Heritage and determine if membership is right for you by reading this associated blog post.

Dress Appropriately

Whether you're visiting just one or all of the castles mentioned above, it's imperative you wear comfortable trainers or tennis shoes. No matter what, you can count on a lot of walking - and not all of it on completely flat surfaces. These Karrimor Weathertite shoes are a good buy and have served me well on my travels, but find walking shoes to suit your needs and style!

It's also a good idea to bring wellies (rain boots). The weather in England can be unpredictable, with rain coming and going fast. As a result, I tend to bring a pair of rainboots and a rain jacket along on all of our trips. Even if I only wear them for a short time or not at all, it's better to have them on hand.

Combine Trips and Attractions When Possible

As previously mentioned, combining visits to Dover Castle and Canterbury is a great way to enhance your overall experience. We learned so much by visiting both locations during the same trip. The sites really provide great context for one another. While not directly related, the same can be said for Warwick Castle and Stratford-upon-Avon. It would also be a shame to completely circumvent the village of Tintagel when it's so close to the castle, or to miss out on exploring the Cotswolds when visiting Sudeley Castle.

All four of these castles are surrounded by absolutely captivating landscapes teeming with raw beauty and rich histories. Whenever possible, I highly recommend checking out as many of the nearby sights and attractions as you can.

Bring a Camera

While you can certainly make do with a phone, the results are often better with an actual camera. These are once-in-a-lifetime sights, after all!

I use the Nikon D7000 digital SLR with either a 18-55mm lens or 55-200mm lens. Amazon also has a comparable Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR camera, which comes with two lenses and a carry bag.