Castles and Keeps: Castles to Visit In and Around London

London and its surrounding areas are steeped in history, with numerous castles and fortifications that have stood the test of time. This guide will take you on a journey through some of the most impressive and accessible castles within easy reach of the capital, each offering a unique glimpse into England’s rich past.

Tower of London

No castle tour of London would be complete without a visit to the iconic Tower of London. Located in the heart of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage site has played a crucial role in English history for nearly a thousand years.

What to See:

• The Crown Jewels
• The White Tower, housing the Royal Armouries collection
• The Medieval Palace
• The infamous Bloody Tower

Insider Tip: Join a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tour for fascinating insights and stories about the Tower’s history.

Getting There: The Tower is easily accessible by tube (Tower Hill station) or by boat along the Thames.

Windsor Castle

Just a short train ride from London, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, serving as one of the official residences of the British monarch.

What to See:

• State Apartments
• St. George’s Chapel
• Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
• Changing of the Guard ceremony (weather permitting)

Insider Tip: Visit on a Thursday or Saturday to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which typically takes place at 11:00 AM.

Getting There: Take a train from London Paddington or Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Central or Windsor & Eton Riverside stations.

Hampton Court Palace

While technically a palace rather than a castle, Hampton Court’s Tudor architecture and rich history make it a must-visit for castle enthusiasts.

What to See:

• Henry VIII’s State Apartments
• The Great Hall
• The Tudor Kitchens
• The Maze and Gardens

Insider Tip: Allow plenty of time to explore the extensive gardens, including the famous Hampton Court Maze.

Getting There: Take a train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station.

Leeds Castle

Often called “the loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle in Kent offers a picturesque setting and over 900 years of history.

What to See:

• The Castle Interior
• The Maze and Grotto
• Falconry Displays
• Punting on the Moat

Insider Tip: Stay until dusk to see the castle beautifully illuminated.

Getting There: Take a train from London Victoria to Bearsted station, then a shuttle bus to the castle.

Hever Castle

Childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle in Kent is a romantic double-moated castle set in beautiful gardens.

What to See:

• The Castle Interior, including Anne Boleyn’s bedroom
• The Book of Hours Room
• The Italian Gardens
• The Miniature Model Houses Exhibition

Insider Tip: Visit during the summer to enjoy the jousting tournaments.

Getting There: Take a train from London Bridge or Victoria to Hever station, then a short walk to the castle.

Warwick Castle

Although a bit further from London, Warwick Castle is well worth the trip for its medieval architecture and immersive historical experiences.

What to See:

• The Great Hall and State Rooms
• The Castle Dungeon (separate ticket required)
• Archery Displays and Bird of Prey Shows
• The Time Tower, an interactive journey through the castle’s history

Insider Tip: Climb the towers and ramparts for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Getting There: Take a train from London Marylebone to Warwick station, then a short bus ride or walk to the castle.

Dover Castle

Perched atop the famous White Cliffs, Dover Castle has guarded the English coast for centuries and played a crucial role in both World Wars.

What to See:

• The Great Tower
• Medieval Tunnels
• Secret Wartime Tunnels
• The Roman Lighthouse

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the immersive Operation Dynamo experience in the Secret Wartime Tunnels.

Getting There: Take a train from London St Pancras International to Dover Priory station, then a short bus ride or walk to the castle.

Bodiam Castle

This 14th-century moated castle in East Sussex is a picture-perfect example of a medieval fortress.

What to See:

• The Exterior (one of the most photographed castles in England)
• The Gatehouse and Courtyard
• The Tower Ruins
• The surrounding countryside

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the castle grounds with stunning views.

Getting There: Take a train from London Charing Cross to Robertsbridge station, then a taxi to the castle.

Rochester Castle

One of the best-preserved Norman fortresses in England, Rochester Castle in Kent boasts an imposing 12th-century keep.

What to See:

• The Keep
• The Bailey
• The Grounds
• Views of Rochester Cathedral and the River Medway

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with exploring the historic town of Rochester, known for its Charles Dickens connections.

Getting There: Take a train from London Victoria or St Pancras International to Rochester station, then a short walk to the castle.

Arundel Castle

This stunning medieval castle and stately home in West Sussex offers a blend of ancient history and Victorian splendor.

What to See:

• The Keep and Barbican
• The State Rooms and Bedrooms
• The Gardens
• The Fitzalan Chapel

Insider Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of the many historical reenactments or events held throughout the year.

Getting There: Take a train from London Victoria to Arundel station, then a short walk or taxi ride to the castle.

Certainly! I’ll add Severndroog Castle to the list with the same type of information as the other entries:

Severndroog Castle

Severndroog Castle is a unique and often overlooked gem in southeast London. This triangular-shaped folly tower, built in the 18th century, offers panoramic views of London and the surrounding countryside. Severndroog Castle was built in 1784 by Lady James as a memorial to her husband, Sir William James. It’s named after a pirate fortress in India that Sir William captured in 1755. Despite its name and appearance, Severndroog was never intended as a fortification but rather as a commemorative folly and viewpoint.

What to See:

• The Castle Exterior and its distinctive triangular shape
• The Viewing Platform on the top floor
• Exhibition rooms detailing the castle’s history and that of its builder, Lady James
• The surrounding Oxleas Wood

Insider Tip: Visit on a clear day for breathtaking views across seven counties. On a good day, you can see all the way to the London Eye and beyond.

Getting There: Take a train from London Bridge or Cannon Street to Kidbrooke station, then a short bus ride (89, 486) to the castle. Alternatively, take the DLR to Woolwich Arsenal and then bus 244.

Planning Your Castle Tour

When planning your castle visits, keep the following tips in mind:

• Opening Times: Many castles have seasonal opening times, with some closing or offering limited access during winter months. Always check the official websites for up-to-date information.
• Admission Fees: Castle entrance fees can be quite high, especially for the more popular sites. Consider purchasing combination tickets or annual passes if you plan to visit multiple locations.
• Guided Tours: Many castles offer guided tours, which can provide valuable insights and access to areas not open to general visitors. Book in advance where possible.
• Photography: While most castles allow photography in certain areas, some restrict it in specific rooms or exhibitions. Always check the rules before taking pictures.
• Accessibility: Due to their historic nature, many castles have limited accessibility for visitors with mobility issues. Check in advance and plan accordingly.
• Weather: Many castles have extensive grounds and gardens. Bring appropriate clothing and footwear, especially in wet weather.
• Time Allocation: Allow plenty of time for each visit. Most castles require at least 2-3 hours to explore fully, with some needing a full day.
• Public Transport: While all the castles mentioned are accessible by public transport, some may require a combination of train and bus or taxi. Plan your journey in advance.
• Special Events: Many castles host special events throughout the year, from medieval festivals to Christmas markets. Check event calendars when planning your visits.
• Nearby Attractions: Consider combining your castle visits with exploration of nearby towns or other historical sites to make the most of your trip.

Exploring the castles in and around London offers a fascinating journey through English history, from Norman conquests to Tudor intrigues and beyond. Each castle has its own unique story to tell, reflected in its architecture, artifacts, and the landscapes that surround it. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Windsor Castle, the romantic allure of Leeds Castle, or the dramatic coastal setting of Dover Castle, there’s a wealth of history and beauty waiting to be discovered.

Remember that while this guide covers some of the most notable castles within reach of London, there are many more fortifications, manor houses, and historic sites scattered throughout the region. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore lesser-known gems.

As you walk through echoing halls, climb winding staircases, and gaze out from ancient battlements, you’ll be following in the footsteps of kings and queens, knights and ladies, soldiers and servants who have shaped the course of English history. Each visit is not just a trip to a historic site, but a journey through time itself.

So pack your camera, don your most comfortable walking shoes, and prepare to be transported back to an age of chivalry, intrigue, and architectural wonder. The castles of London and its surroundings await your exploration!