A courtyard with stone buildings on three sides. One side has crenellations and a solid square tower — The castle at Sizergh, Cumbria | © National Trust Images/Hugh Mothersole

Castles and forts

Royalty, wars and even ghosts – the castles we care for have seen it all. Step back in time when you visit one of these historic buildings, and see what you can discover.

A family exploring the Adam Tower at Chirk Castle, Wrexham.

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Family-friendly castles to visit

Looking for enchanting family days out? Look no further than these fairy-tale castles, perfect for days out with little knights and dragon-slayers.

Performers in medieval costume and armour in front of Bodiam Castle

Place

Bodiam Castle

With its full moat, original wooden portcullis, murder holes, spiral staircases and battlements, Bodiam Castle offers a tantalising glimpse of the 14th century. Check dates for tours and talks.

View of the castle from the walled garden with pink and yellow flowers in the foreground at Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland

Place

Lindisfarne Castle

A castle (that’s not a castle), on an island (that’s not an island).

The exterior of Penrhyn Castle on a sunny day

Place

Penrhyn Castle

This Norman-inspired fortified country house was built in the early 19th century. Inside, opulence reigns, with playfully decorated furnishings, oak, ebony, marble and local slate.