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Family-friendly castles to visit

A family exploring the Adam Tower at Chirk Castle, Wrexham.
A family exploring the Adam Tower at Chirk Castle, Wrexham | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Become ruler of the castle or hunt for ghosts and tales of treason at the historic fortresses we care for. Take a look at our top family-friendly castles, where kids of all ages can let their imaginations run wild.

Bodiam Castle, East Sussex
With its drawbridge, turrets and moated exterior, Bodiam Castle is a great example of a medieval castle. Be transported back in time by costumed characters, storytelling and armour demonstrations.Visit Bodiam Castle
Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Look out for the Adam Tower, multi-level dungeons and murder holes in this medieval fortress. Children can become knights for an afternoon by trying on the armour, or head outside to the wild play area at Home Farm.Visit Chirk Castle
Corfe Castle, Dorset
Discover a 1,000-year-old castle ruin with crumbling walls, secret hiding places, and tales of treachery around every corner. Take in panoramic views of Purbeck, count the arrow loops and feel history come to life as you explore the ruins.Visit Corfe Castle
Croft Castle, Herefordshire
Croft Castle is steeped in history and surrounded by acres of medieval parkland. Kids can invade a miniature version of the fortress, or jump and climb in the wild play area – complete with rope swing and giant noughts and crosses.Visit Croft Castle
Family exploring the gardens in spring at Sizergh Castle, Cumbria
Family exploring the gardens in spring at Sizergh Castle, Cumbria | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor
Crom, County Fermanagh
Old Crom Castle lies within a 2,000-acre estate, complete with ancient woodlands and tranquil islands. Explore the castle ruins before heading to the play area for fun on swings, balance beams and monkey bars.Visit Crom
Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland
Dominating the Northumberland coastline, Dunstanburgh is one of the largest and grandest fortifications in Northern England. See if you can catch a glimpse of the 16th-century knight who is said to haunt the ruins, or explore the rock pools on the shores below.Visit Dunstanburgh Castle
Scotney Castle, Kent
This 14th-century ruin is surrounded by romantic gardens, with roses and wisteria climbing the castle walls. Take the buggy-friendly paths around the garden and explore the Badger and Pepper play area.Visit Scotney Castle
Sizergh, Cumbria
Standing at the gateway to the Lake District, Sizergh Castle has been home to the Strickland family for more than 800 years. Follow the children's trail through the house, before heading outside for the wild play trail through the woods.Visit Sizergh
Tattershall Castle, Lincolnshire
Can you climb all 149 steps up the staircase to conquer Tattershall Castle? Explore its echoing chambers and maze of rooms, and find a range of medieval-era games as you go.Visit Tattershall Castle
Family playing with autumn leaves in the garden at Osterley Park, London, with the house in the background

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