Top 10 castles in the South West

In these modern times, there’s nothing quite like stepping away from the screen and into the world of history. And where better to transport ourselves to another time than with a visit to one of Britain’s breath-taking castles? As a royal nation, we have more than our fair share of stunning fortresses to visit, and many of them are within a stone’s throw of a train station. Transport yourself into another world with fantastic tours, costume events, and even dining experiences at some of the most majestic locations in the country.

If you’re ready to walk in the footsteps of kings and queens, look no further. Here are the top 10 castles in the South West.

1. Portchester Castle

Dating back to the late 3rd Century, Portchester Castle is an incredibly preserved example of the “Saxon shore” forts in Hampshire. A favoured lodge of King John, the castle has been the stomping ground for a who’s who of British royal notables, including Edward II and Henry V. Its seaside location and open grounds make it the perfect weekend getaway for summer. Portchester Castle is located 20 minutes’ walk from Portchester station.

2. Highclere Castle

The stunning façade of Highclere Castle (or should we say Downton Abbey?) is now recognised across the world as the location for the beloved British TV series. But this famous fortress first came to life in 1679, and even served as a hospital during the First World War. Today you can visit the castle and stroll around the scenic grounds, take afternoon tea in its luxurious interior, and even attend one of many events that take place throughout the year, such as fully costumed 1920s cocktail parties! Highclere Castle is a 20-minute taxi ride from Andover station.

3. Southsea Castle

Southsea Castle was built by the order of King Henry VIII in 1544, in order to act as first line of defence from our French neighbours. Today, you can enjoy shared joie de vivre behind the very same walls! Time your trip for the summer months and you’ll find yourself on one most surprising days out on the list. This volunteer-run fortress is free to visit. For more tips before your trip, take a look at the castle’s staff recommends page. Southsea Castle is a 35-minute walk, or 7-minute taxi ride, from Portsmouth & Southsea station.

4. Guildford Castle

Thought to have been constructed by William the Conquerer, this breath-taking medieval castle dates back to the year 1066. Today you can still climb up into the reconstructed tower, which offers sublime 360-degree views of Guildford. You can do this for the small fee of £3.50, which goes towards the conservation of the fortress. Guildford Castle is a fantastic stop on a day trip to Guildford and its fantastic shopping and wining and dining options. The castle is just 10 minutes’ walk from Guildford station.

5. Tower of London

Perhaps the most famous castle on the list, the Tower of London basks in over 1,000 years of history, from being the site of Ann Boleyn’s beheading to the home of the crown jewels. Today the fortress is one of the most popular tourist destinations in London, with tours of the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Battlements, and even a Torture at the Tower exhibition. The tower guards (or “beefeaters”) lock the tower each day at sunset, then open it again each sunrise with a special ceremony that’s been tradition they’ve enacted since 1340.

The Tower of London is located a two-mile walk (or 11 minutes on the London Underground) from London Waterloo. If you’re heading to the capital, a London Travelcard is a great option for saving on sights and travel across the city. Once you’re done at the fortress, check out these other fantastic family-friendly things to do near London Waterloo station.

6. Corfe Castle

Thought once again to have been built by William the Conqueror, the 11th-Century Corfe Castle has been standing guard over its village for over a thousand years. Today the fortress is in ruins, but the remaining walls give a beautiful insight into what once was. Enid Blyton was so inspired by the ruins that she used them as inspiration for the fictional Kirrin Castle in the first Famous Five book. Take a walk up to the castle and you can enjoy views all across Purbeck, and even take a refreshment inside the accompanying tearoom. The ruins are four minutes’ walk from Corfe Castle station.

Once you’re done at the Corfe Castle, take the Purbeck ridgeway walk to the coast and the Old Harry Rocks that mark the eastern edge of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

7. Maiden Castle

If you really want to marvel in the deep depths of history, look no further than Maiden Castle. Built around the 1st Century BC, this site in Dorset is one of the largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts in Europe, the size of about 50 football pitches. We recommend downloading the audio tour which explores the history of Maiden Castle from Neolithic enclosure to Iron Age cemetery. This site is best for people who don’t mind some walking during their day trip. Maiden Castle is located under 45 minutes’ walk from Dorchester South station, or you can catch the 10 bus towards Poundbury, which is a 13-minute walk from the site.

8. Portland Castle

If you’re visiting Maiden Castle, then Portland Castle has got to be your next stop. Located under an hour away by bus, this coastal fortress was built by Henry IIV in the 1540’s to protect against the Spanish and French invasions. The 450-year history of the fortress is colourfully detailed in the audio tour which comes included in the price of admission. Take in stunning sea views from the gun platforms, before taking a stroll in the Contemporary Heritage Garden. Portland Castle is located a 20-minute bus ride from Weymouth station.

9. Okehampton Castle

Nature lovers will love a day out to Okehampton Castle. Located in Devon, this 14th-Century fortress is the largest in the country. The richly decorated site was full of life until the last owner got into trouble with Henry VIII in 1539, at which point the castle was left for ruin. Today you can explore those very same ruins that stand on a stunning wooded hill, with a riverside picnic area and plenty of nature walks nearby. Visit Okehampton Castle in the spring and early summer to enjoy the seasonal wildflowers and striking birds that flock to the area. The ruins are located an 18-minute walk from Okehampton station, and you’ll find plenty more fantastic things to do in Devon during your stay.

10. Windsor Castle

If you want the true modern royal experience, then you should head to Windsor Castle. One of the official residences of His Majesty The King, the building of Windsor Castle started in 1070, under the orders of William the Conqueror. It has been called home by various members of the monarchy ever since. From the famous Changing of the Guards, a plethora of tours, and many seasonal events for the whole family, Windsor Castle truly makes for the perfect royal day out. The fortress is located just five minutes’ walk from Windsor and Eton Riverside.

Ready to step into history? You can find budget-friendly train fares tickets to any of these stunning destinations and more on our cheap train tickets page.

English Heritage membership

If you’re visiting more than one English Heritage site in Britain, such as Osborne and Stonehenge, you might want to become a member. That way, you can enjoy unlimited access to hundreds of historic castles and places for yourself and up to 6 children for one low annual cost.