Beautiful Castles Near London: Day Trips Fit For Royalty

From the regal residences in Windsor to the ancient fortresses of the Cotswolds, England’s royal heritage does more than dominate history books and period dramas – it graces the pages of millions of bucket lists. Hardly anyone visits this island nation and resists their temptation for frolicking in perfect gardens and wandering the extravagant rooms of some of England’s finest castles, many of which are located near London and make for stylish day trips fit for any king or queen hoping to escape the vibrant capital. 

The endless list of castles and palaces that await you is, of course, topped by Buckingham Palace, which is undoubtedly, one of the most iconic royal structures in Europe. Behind the tall gates lie centuries of history and little secrets that draw the curious attention of many. However, in all its glamour and allure, it is a palace rarely open to the public, so it’s time to set your eyes on the castles near London that do allow you to live out their royal fantasies. 

Uncover luxury like you have never seen before and find the realisation that visiting castles is not a far-fetched dream surrounded by acres of forestry in the most remote parts of the world. In fact, one of the most exciting things about this destination is how accessible the country has made its greatest pieces of architecture and antiquity. 

To narrow down your search and choices, here is a list of ten of the most beautiful castles near London that are perfect for a day trip and weekend getaway from London. 

Ten Beautiful Castles Near London

Arundel Castle

Overlooking River Arun with its 1000 years of history and impeccable gardens, Arundel Castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for over 850 years. There is something about this towering, stately home that makes me feel like it jumped right out of a fairy tale, especially when you look at aerial views of the castle and its grounds. The beautiful architecture surrounded by lush greenery fits every little girl’s princess fantasy. It is definitely one of the more picturesque castles near London.

The beauty is carried from the outside in, as concealed with the walls, are fine collections of furniture, clocks, tapestries, armour, a restored Victorian kitchen and perhaps the most unique – personal possessions of Mary, Queen of Scots. 

 Location:  Arundel, West Sussex
Travel Time (by train): 1hr 45min from London Victoria  

Blenheim Palace

One of the most stunning and popular palaces, Blenheim Palace is a massive baroque masterpiece that lies just outside of Oxford and draws a crowd no matter the season. Home to a young Sir Winston Churchill, the rich tapestry-covered walls hold incredible stories of Britain and is interestingly, the only non-royal country house in England. It also happens to be one of the largest houses ever built (1705 – 1722). 

Besides the palace itself, be ready to admire a large maze, walled gardens, stables, and acres of landscaped parkland. If you happen to be around in the summer, try to catch the amazing Blenheim Palace food festival held at the end of May / early June each year. It is a grand gastronomic affair guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and indulge your passion for diverse cuisine.

Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Travel Time (by train): 1hr 20min from London Marylebone 
Tickets: £20 – £35 for an annual pass (book here)

Bodiam Castle

Built in 1385 to defend the south coast against French invasion during the Hundred Years’ War, the moated Bodiam Castle is one of the most loved and well-known in England for its glimpse into medieval splendour. The quadrangular design (one the most beautiful of its kind), the lush scenery, and the incredible interiors all express why there is no surprise as to why it holds much traction with castle lovers all over the country.

Location: Robertsbridge in East Sussex
Travel Time (by train): 1hr 20min from London Marylebone

Broughton Castle

If you are searching for a Medieval marvel, Broughton Castle is the place for you. Complete with a magnificent moat, this historic structure of the 1550s was built of the rich local Hornton ironstone and is quite the rural escape. There is no better castle near London than this one if you want to feel removed from the rest of the world and connect with a rich past – or a pop-culture fuelled present, as this was the filming location for Shakespeare in Love and Jane (1998) Eyre (2011).

Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire
Travel Time (by train): 1hr 20min from London Marylebone

Hever Castle

Award-winning gardens, beautiful lakes and 700 years of British history await visitors of the double-moated Hever Castle. Across three floors filled with paintings, lovely antique furniture, and not-so-lovely instruments of torture, you gain true insight into royal life in Medieval England. As you continue to explore, you will also notice that the original country house timbers can still be seen within the stone walls of the fortification, which date back to 1270, while the Tudor dwellings were added in the 15^th and 16^th centuries. The gatehouse has the oldest working original portcullis in England.

However, walking around is not all that is on offer. There is a wonderful selection of events to enjoy, notably, jousting tournaments and archery displays in the summer months and an annual patchwork and quilting exhibition in September. 

Location: Hever, Kent 
Travel Time (by train): 1hr from London Bridge 

Highclere Castle 

Situated on the outskirts of Newbury, Highclere Castle is a Victorian gem complete with over 200 rooms on over 1000 acres of rolling land. Its centuries of history, everything from 749AD to the second world war, fascinates every visitor as they wander through grand bedrooms, long hallways, old cellars, and a beautiful library. However, more than anything else, this impressive structure is famed for its connections to the British drama series Downton Abbey, as it served as the on-screen home of the show’s Crawley family. 

Location: Highclere. Newbury
Travel Time (by train): 3hrs from London Waterloo 
Tickets: £15 – £30 (book here)

Highgrove House

In the idyllic Gloucestershire countryside, we find the family residence of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla. The 18^th-century Georgian home is a beautiful one blended with neo-classical elements that were added during Charles III’s remodelling in 1987. While you cannot tour the house itself, the gardens are open to the public from April – October each year, and there is much to see. From a wild garden and formal garden to a walled kitchen garden, the greenery of this estate is extensive, and their interlinking nature is a reflection of an imaginative green thumb. 

Besides being an ever-changing canvas for flora and fauna, Highgrove’s most unforgettable experience is its champagne tea tour. Spend 1.5 hours with a knowledgeable guide who shows off the more private parts of the property through fascinating stories, and then end the day in The Orchard Room for delicious afternoon tea, served with champagne directly off the land. 

Location: Tetbury, Gloucestershire 
Travel Time (by train): 2hrs 30min from London Paddington

Leeds Castle

Contrary to what you may assume, Leeds Castle is not a castle in the city of Leeds. I know – I was shocked too. England can be very confusing sometimes. Leeds Castle, instead, lies on an island on River Len, east of the village of Leeds, Kent.

Formerly serving as a Norman stronghold during the 11th and 12th centuries, then as the private property of six medieval queens, and as a palace for Henry VIII, Leeds Castle has witnessed it all. Today, this stunning castle near London also offers the ultimate staycation, where luxury blends into ancient surroundings. As you enjoy a breakfast fit for a queen, don’t forget to step into the glamourous air of 1930s parties, saunter through fragrant gardens, and best of all, get lost in a maze of 2400 yew trees that are set in a square, but have a circular pattern when viewed from the air.

Location: Leeds, Kent
Travel Time (by train): 1hr 30min from London Bridge

Warwick Castle 

Another landmark built off the forts of William the Conqueror, Warwick Castle brings the spellbinding stories of great battles, pampered princesses, and ancient myths to life within its magnificent stone walls. It is one of the best castles near London, not only because it is open year-round, but because it provides the ultimate historical experience combined with seasonal events of the modern day. Enjoy great exhibits and medieval shows alongside winter ice skating and summer festivals – it will be a day trip to remember. 

The fun does not have to stop there. Extended your adventure by spending a night or two on castle grounds – it takes the concept of a sleepover to a new level. Being around for more than a day also allows you to explore the other attractions of Warwick, which are within easy reach because the castle lies within the city centre (unlike many others on this list)!

Location: Warwick, Warwickshire
Travel Time (by train): 1hr 30min from London Bridge
Tickets: £22 – £30 (book here)  

Windsor Castle

Out of all the castles near London, Windsor Castle – home to the present British monarchy. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the site has more than 900 years of history and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. From impeccable state apartments, distinct round tower and the gothic-style St George’s Chapel to the changing of the guard and hidden treasures, there is much to see and experience. 

The castle’s proximity to the country’s capital makes it one the most visited, and Windsor in general, a town beloved by day trippers – especially in the summer. 

Location: Windsor, Berkshire
Travel Time (by train): 45mins from London Paddington 
Tickets: £15 – £30 (book here) 

Practical Information

Location: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland