There’s something about a castle that just captures the imagination. Maybe it’s their imposing size, or the history that they evoke – whatever it is, castles make for an interesting day out. If you’re looking for some inspiration on where to go next, why not check out our list of the 10 best castles in the UK to visit by coach? From the towering walls of Windsor Castle to the fairytale turrets of Alnwick Castle, there’s something for everyone!
A castle is a large, fortified building. They were originally built in Europe in the Middle Ages, and were used as a residence for the king or queen, as well as a place of defence against enemy attacks. Castles are often categorized according to their architectural features – for example, a castle might be described as a “medieval castle” or a “Gothic castle”.
UK Top Castles
1. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is one of the most famous castles in the world, and is located in the town of Windsor in Berkshire. It’s the largest castle in England, and has been used as a royal residence since the 11th century. The castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many turrets and rooms, including the Queen’s Gallery and the State Apartments.
Windsor castle is especially famous for its long mile, a stretch of land that runs from the castle itself to Windsor Great Park. This area is perfect for a peaceful walk or a leisurely bike ride, and is one of the most beautiful areas of Windsor Castle. Click here for more information about Windsor Castle.
2. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is located on a rocky outcrop in the center of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, and is home to a number of historical artefacts, including the Stone of Destiny and the Scottish Crown Jewels. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and dungeons, and enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh from the top of the castle walls.
3. Warwick Castle - one of the best castles in England
Warwick Castle is located in Warwick, Warwickshire, England. It was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, and has been extensively rebuilt and remodeled over the years. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore the castle grounds which include many towers and turrets, as well as its State Rooms which are decorated with tapestries and period furniture.
Castles in England
4. Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle is located in Alnwick, Northumberland, England. It was built in 1096 by Robert de Mowbray, and has been owned by various nobles and royalty over the years. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and gardens. Alnwick Garden is one of the most famous gardens in England, and features a large water garden with fountains and a wisteria tunnel.
Alnwick Castle is a popular tourist destination for Harry Potter fans. The castle was used as a filming location for the Harry Potter films, and many of the castle's features can be seen in the films. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and gardens, and see where Hagrid was attacked by the giant spider Aragog, as well as the spot where Hermione was hit in the face with a water balloon by Draco Malfoy.
5. Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone in Kent, England. It was originally built in 1119 by Robert de Crevecoeur, but has been extensively remodeled over the years. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many towers, moats and courtyards. Leeds Castle also features beautiful gardens which include a maze , a yew hedge labyrinth , Italian Gardens , Oriental Gardens , Formal Gardens , Children’s Play Area , Walled Kitchen Garden and a Vineyard .
6. Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle is located in Caernarfon, Wales. It was built in 1283 by Edward I of England, and is one of the most impressive castle sites in Britain. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many towers and walls, as well as its Great Hall which has an impressive painted ceiling.
7. Bodiam Castle
Bodiam Castle is located near Robertsbridge, East Sussex, England. It was built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, and is one of the most iconic castle sites in Britain. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many towers and walls, as well as its moat which has been designated a Scheduled Monument.
8. Carrickfergus Castle
Carrickfergus Castle is located in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It was built in 1177 by John de Courcy, and is one of the most well-preserved castle sites in Britain. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many towers and walls, as well as its castle keep.
9. Dover Castle - the strongest castle in England
Dover Castle is located in Dover, Kent, England. It was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror, and has been a castle site for almost 1,000 years. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many towers, walls and keep. Dover Castle also features a secret wartime tunnel which was used by the British government during World War II.
The castle played a important role during the First Barons' War (1215-1217), when it was used as a base of operations by King John of England. The castle was besieged by the barons of England, but was never taken.
The medieval castle is one of the most famous English defensive castle in the UK and is only a short day trip from London.
10. Arundel Castle
Arundel castle is located in West Sussex, England. It was built in 1068 by Roger de Montgomery, and has been extensively rebuilt and remodeled over the years. The castle is now open to the public, and visitors can explore its many towers and walls, as well as its beautiful gardens and parkland. Arundel castle also features a museum which houses an extensive collection of artworks and antiquities.
The gardens at Arundel castle are some of the most beautiful in England. They include a maze, a yew hedge labyrinth, Italian Gardens, Oriental Gardens, Formal Gardens, Children’s Play Area, Walled Kitchen Garden and a Vineyard. The gardens are open to the public, and visitors can explore them for free when they visit the castle.
Other important castles which are worth mentioning but didn't make it into the top 10 are Tower of London, Tintagel Castle in North Cornwall, Bolsover Castle in Chesterfield, Highclere Castle in Hampshire, Highcliffe Castle, Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire, Bamburgh Castle (Romantic Castle) in Northumbria, Framlingham Castle in Suffolk, Hever Castle in Kent, Durham Castle on the North East coast, Dunstanburgh Castle in Northumberland, Warkworth Castle in the North East and Corfe Castle in Dorsett, Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island. UNESCO World heritage site castles in Wales include Conwy Castle and Beaumaris.
Visiting one of these castle sites by coach is an excellent way for visitors to explore the UK's rich history, and experience what life was like in medieval times. Whether you're a castle enthusiast or simply looking for an exciting day out, there are plenty of castle coach trips available that will take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful castles in Britain. So why not book a castle coach trip today and experience the best of Britain's castles?
Castle Coach Hire
Coach Hire Direct can help with your trip to any castle in the UK. We provide coaches and minibus hire to sporting events, airport transfers, shopping trips, weddings, school trips, business trip and much more. Our fleet of secure vehicles include Executive coaches (luxury coach), MIDI coaches, corporate coach hire and minibuses.
All of our private hire coaches come with air con and wi fi facilities for your entertainment. We take pride in our vehicles to ensure that they are reliable, efficient and safety is paramount.
All coach hire drivers are professional and courteous and will ensure that our customers have a pleasant and safe journey and most importantly arrive on time at your destination!