There’s something quite magical about setting foot inside a centuries-old castle, not only to imagine the famous monarchs who once lived within its stone walls but also to feel a bit like royalty yourself.

I have been fortunate during my travels across the UK and Ireland to visit a number of the famous castles that dot the landscape and I continue to find myself irresistibly drawn to these timeless fortresses. 

From windswept ruins perched on coastal cliffs in Ireland to grand royal strongholds nestled in the heart of England and Scotland, each castle has its own unique story to tell. Let us journey to the most unforgettable castles you can visit throughout the UK and Ireland for a real-life fairy-tale travel experience. 

Explore the UK’s Most Iconic Castles: Where Royalty and History Unite

England’s Famous Castles

Visiting the UK’s castles is like stepping into a storybook. Each structure tells a tale of conquest, defence, and legacy. For those beginning their journey in England, Windsor Castle is a must-see. 

Windsor Castle

As the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, it has been the home of British monarchs for over 1,000 years and still one of the official residences of the British monarch. It’s home to St George’s Chapel where many monarchs were laid to rest including King Henry VIII, and more recently Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

You can also tour the lavishly decorated state apartments which contain paintings by masters like Rembrandt, as well as witness St George’s Hall’s high ceilings and coats of arms. You can also catch the Changing of the Guard here just like at Buckingham Palace, but with fewer crowds.

Tower of London

You then of course have the Tower of London which is home to the Crown Jewels and The Royal Armouries which includes Henry VIII’s enormous suits of armour. One of the most iconic fortresses in England, the Tower of London has served as a royal palace, prison, armoury, and treasury

Don’t forget to say hello to the famous ravens that live at the tower. Legend has it that if they ever leave, the kingdom will fall. There’s even a Ravenmaster whose sole job is to care for the birds. 

Other English Castles

There are many other English castles to venture to as well such as the medieval Warwick Castle with its haunted dungeons, the picturesque Leeds Castle which sits upon its own island surrounded by a lake and gardens, and Dover Castle with its underground WWII tunnels you can explore.

Scotland’s Majestic Castles

Those looking to live out their Outlander fantasies can venture north to Scotland by simply taking the train from London to Edinburgh which not only connects you to Scotland’s capital but also provides breathtaking views of the countryside along the way. 

Scotland is an absolute dream for castle lovers, delivering travelers over 2,000 to set their eyes upon. They range from well-preserved royal fortresses to romantic ruins perched on cliffs and lochs. While you obviously can’t visit or tour them all, there are hundreds that are open to the public, and many are steeped in myth, legend, and incredible stories.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle sits perched upon Castle Rock as it dominates the city skyline and is the most-visited paid attraction in Scotland. The castle holds the famous Stone of Destiny, the Scottish Crown Jewels, and the National War Museum of Scotland.

The castle has racked up well over a thousand years of history, having witnessed everything from Viking raids to royal coronations, sieges, and rebellions. Today, the castle’s afternoon cannon still blasts six days a week at 1PM, and the castle serves as a spectacular backdrop for the annual Hogmanay New Year’s Eve fireworks show.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle, often considered one of Scotland’s grandest, played a pivotal role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Its strategic position on a volcanic rock offers commanding views of the surrounding area.

Stirling is often regarded as the “Gateway to the Highlands”. It is also here where Mary Queen of Scots lived as a child. The rooms are lavishly decorated and full of life, with costumed interpreters playing the roles of nobles, servants, and even jesters

The Great Hall is said to be the largest banqueting hall ever built in medieval Scotland. With its huge fireplaces and hammerbeam ceiling, you can easily imagine the feasts, celebrations, and royal speeches that took place here.

Eilean Donan Castle

Further north, Eilean Donan Castle is perhaps one of the most photographed castles in the UK. Located on a small island where three sea lochs meet, it embodies the romantic ideal of a Scottish castle. Its picturesque setting has made it a favourite filming location and a dream destination for travellers.

The original castle was actually destroyed in the early 18th century during a Jacobite uprising and was later rebuilt in the 20th century based on old drawings and romantic imagination.

One of the best parts of the castle is simply approaching it via the arched stone bridge with incredible views of the lochs and mountains that surround it. 

Wales: A Land of Castles

Wales is renowned for having more castles per square mile than any other nation, which has  earned it the nickname “Land of Castles.” There are over 600 castles throughout Wales, many which were constructed by King Edward I in the 13th century during his conquest of Wales.

One of the most iconic sites in Wales is Caernarfon Castle. The castle’s formidable walls and towering structures stand as a testament to medieval military ingenuity. It’s famous for its polygonal towers and as the site where the now King Charles III was invested as Prince of Wales.

Another remarkable fortress is Conwy Castle, also a creation of Edward I much like  Caernarfon. Located on Wales’s northern coast, this well-preserved stronghold provides stunning views of the nearby town and estuary. Its commanding presence and deep historical roots make it a must-see destination for any visitor exploring the rich heritage of Wales.

Exploring the Castles of Ireland and Northern Ireland

 

Both Ireland and Northern Ireland are also home to castles, and although Ireland may not be part of the UK, we thought we’d include it on the list as well. In Ireland, castles are scattered all over the country. Some date back to medieval times, while others were lavish homes for Anglo-Irish lords. Many are beautifully preserved and open to visitors, and some you can even stay the night in. 

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is where you can kiss the famous Blarney Stone, before the venturing on to explore the castle ruins and narrow spiral staircases. There are also gorgeous gardens to check out such as the Poison Garden and Witch’s Stone.

Dublin Castle

You’ll find Dublin Castle situated in the heart of the Irish capital where it has been a centre of power for over 800 years. Though it looks more like a Georgian palace today, parts of the castle date back to Viking and Norman times. 

You can Tour the State Apartments, set foot in the Chapel Royal with its Gothic architecture, and even tour the underground Viking ruins of the original fortress

Castles of Northern Ireland

To venture further north and back into the UK, consider visiting Northern Ireland by taking the Dublin to Belfast train. This journey is not only a convenient way to travel between these two large cities, but also an opportunity to enjoy the tranquil Irish countryside.

Belfast Castle

 

In Belfast, you’ll of course find Belfast Castle, a stunning example of Scottish Baronial architecture set against the backdrop of Cave Hill. The castle’s panoramic views of the city and Belfast Lough are simply spectacular.

Take time to explore the grand rooms and learn about the history of the castle and its former owners, the Montgomery family. Or you may even consider booking a destination wedding here since the castle has become a very popular location for travellers wanting to exchange their vows. 

Carrickfergus Castle

One of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland, Carrickfergus Castle has stood for over 800 years and is located right by the sea, offering dramatic views of Belfast Lough.

You can easily tour the ramparts, towers, and dungeons. there is also an onsite museum where you can learn about the history of the Norman conquest and its importance during the Anglo-Irish conflicts.

You may recognise Carrickfergus Castle, since it made an appearance in Game of Thrones as the fictional Castle Black which was the stronghold of the Night’s Watch.

The Cultural Significance of Castles

Beyond their architectural beauty, castles hold immense cultural significance. They are symbols of power, protection, and governance, reflecting the societies that built them. Today, many castles have been repurposed as museums, event spaces, or tourist attractions, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.

Castles also serve as inspiration for art, literature, and film. From Shakespeare’s plays to modern blockbusters, these structures have captivated imaginations and brought history to life. Visiting them in person allows travellers to connect with the past in a tangible and meaningful way.

Tips for Visiting Castles

To make the most of your castle-hopping adventure, here are some helpful tips:

• Plan Your Route: Research the castles you want to visit and group them by region to maximise your time.
• Consider Guided Tours: Many castles offer guided tours that provide deeper insights into their history and architecture.
• Travel by Train: The UK’s extensive rail network makes it easy to visit multiple castles. Booking in advance often secures the best fares.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Exploring castles often involves walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs.
• Check Opening Hours: Some castles have seasonal hours or require advance booking, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

The castles of the United Kingdom and Ireland are more than just remnants of the past; they are living monuments that tell the stories of nations and monarchies which have evolved over time. 

From the grandeur of Windsor Castle to the rugged beauty of Eilean Donan and the historic significance of Caernarfon, each castle offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era.

Whether you’re embarking on a scenic train journey, such as the train from London to Edinburgh, or traversing the Irish countryside on the Dublin to Belfast train, these iconic landmarks await. 

So pack your bags and prepare to be transported back in time as you explore the UK’s most iconic castles, where royalty and history unite.