The Great Britain, which used to be the land where the sun never sets, has a history that dates back to thousand of years. England has had many strong kings and queens. Moreover it is the land of most popular royal family. So, no wonders that this land is the home to many beautiful royal castles. Today we are going to explore the most fascinating castles in great Britain.
Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England
The longest continuously occupied palace in Europe is Windsor Castle. It is located in Windsor Castle, Windsor SL4 1NJ, UK. The British royal family calls it home, and many historic royal weddings have taken place there. For instance, the union between Prince Harry and American Meghan Markle brought the castle even more recognition during American coverage of the occasion.
With its lovely off-grey façade constructed in a Georgian and Victorian architecture with modern accents, it is simple to understand why the couple choose this castle. It is a blend of heritage and modernity. In addition, the Long Walk’s perspective of the castle is incredibly breathtaking, and it makes for the perfect backdrop for a few photos. Make sure you reserve in advance and arrive early because the castle may get quite busy.
Dover Castle
Some castles are more than simply a gorgeous face, while others are older and less attractive. Dover offers everything that a castle can grant. Around the expansive site are ruins of a Roman lighthouse, an Anglo-Saxon cathedral, an 800-year-old tower with interiors that depict life under Henry II. Moreover, secret WWII tunnels that reveal the strategic significance of the castle are not just in the 20th century but throughout its entire history.
And why has this location always been so crucial to the security of England? That question is answered by the stunning vistas of France and the rest of continental Europe across the Channel from the grounds.
You can travel to this breathtaking castle by train. The Dover Priory station on Kent’s Heritage Coast is connected to London by frequent trains.
Bodiam Castle
Although Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, southeast of London, was constructed more for showreputation than for defense, it is nonetheless regarded as one of the outstanding examples of a medieval fortification. Following the end of the Hundred Years’ War, Richard II authorized landowner and former soldier Sir Edward Dalyngigge to defend his house as a precaution against a French invasion.
Bodiam, which like a scene from a fairy tale, has all the characteristics one would anticipate seeing in a medieval castle., From its towering battlements and battlements to its intimidating portcullis and moat. However, the castle’s interior is in terrible disrepair. To prevent the fortress from being utilized by the enemy during the English Civil War in the 1600s, it was disassembled. To prevent it from being demolished, John Fuller, an art patron, paid the castle 3,000 guineas in 1829.
Highclere Castle
Anyone who has ever watched Downton Abbey will be familiar with Highclere Castle. One of England’s most stunning castles is the Victorian structure in Hampshire, which dates to the second part of the 17th century.
Highclere Castle has been encircled by 1000 acres of parkland. they have served as the residence of the Carnarvon family. Carnavon family resided there ever since the castle was completed. However, the Bishops of Winchester once controlled the property. And Highclere Castle’s current location was once occupied by a different house.
Beautiful staterooms are found throughout the castle. Those encompass a saloon with leather-covered walls, a state dining room, a library, music, drawing. Moreover, smoking rooms, many of which include artwork and elaborate interior decorations.
Arundale Castle
65 miles outside London, on a mountaintop with a view of the River Arun, sits Arundel Castle. It has served as the Dukes of Norfolk’s residence for the last 850 years. It is a large castle that dates back to 1068. And is distinguished by its unusual motte, gothic windows, and spectacular round towers.
The castle was transformed into a country house in the 19th century. Also, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s impending visit forced the modernization of Arundel and the addition of central heating and electricity.
Even though the Duke of Norfolk continues to live there, many of the rooms and the formal gardens are now accessible to the public.
Dunrobin Castle in Sutherland, Scotland
The Earl of Sutherland and the Clan Sutherland reside at the 1300s-era Dunrobin Castle. Views of the Dornoch Firth from the castle are breathtaking when the sun glints off the estuary’s waters. The grounds and the castle’s architecture are both heavily influenced by French design. The gardens are well kept and have many features in common with the Gardens of Versailles. Such as charming fountains surrounded by hedges.
The castle has turret roofs, which makes it resemble the classic castles depicted in your favorite fairytales. With the castle situated higher up and the shimmering firth in view, a stroll around the gardens is especially beautiful. Since it is Scotland, there are even trained falcons and owls.
Durham Castle
The majestic cathedral in Durham, a city known for its universities, is well worth a visit on its own. However, the almost as splendid castle, which was previously the bishop’s residence and is perched on the same tall hill as the cathedral, sits directly across from the cathedral. Daily tours of this 900-year-old marvel are offered.
But you can tour only during non-school hours. Because, the castle is currently used as student housing. Guests are welcome to stay the night. Most rooms offer views suitable for a bishop. And they range in quality from simple to four-poster beds.
Durham is on the major route between London and Edinburgh, and there are frequent rail connections between the two cities.
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is perched on a volcanic stone outcrop along the coast of Northumberland. Northumberland is a county in northeastern England. Bamburgh Castle may have served as the seat of government for the Din Guarie kingdom, which had antecedents as far back as the third or fourth century. Moreover, the Normans constructed the majority of the current castle in the eleventh century. And Henry II is said to have given the go-ahead for the building of the castle keep.
William Armstrong, a Victorian entrepreneur, bought the castle in 1894 and renovated it. Although it is still the Armstrong family home today, 16 of the rooms are accessible to guests. Some of the rooms have been transformed into display halls showcasing items like medieval armor and the renowned Bamburgh Sword, which was unearthed from the location during an archaeological investigation in the seventh century.
