Even though you may find thousands of palaces across the world, none of them can be compared to the fascinating palaces built by the British. Castle near London, England Provide a gateway to the past culture and heritage of the British Empire. oldest castle near london England was built during the era of the Normans to defend the British Empire from naval invaders.
Later, the British also built many palaces in the inland area which were not only for fortification but also as homes for the royals. From the very beginning, castles around the London area were an integral part of British culture. The construction techniques and architecture of London’s castles and palaces will take you back to the medieval era. Those who are truly interested in English heritage and culture must visit these palaces.
10 Awesome Castles Near London
Today many palaces are either being renovated or are slowly falling into disrepair. Most of the castles are only a few hours from London. The UK also has plenty of castle hotels for those who want to stay in a castle near London. who are looking for castle near london to stay You can visit these hotels for a royal experience. Here are some castles worth seeing near London
1. Hever Castle
Just an hour’s drive from London is this seventeen-century-old castle. It has two ditches and is heavily fortified. It was constructed in 1270 and housed a medieval castle. Later, it was handed over to one of the most influential families of the time – the Boleyn family – and then became the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Anne Boleyn was one of the most colorful characters in the history of England. Boleyn was the second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. Throughout the palace, you can see paintings, furniture, tapestries and other objects that are neatly preserved. You can also witness the Tudor occupation of the castle.
Additionally, in “The Book of Hours Room” you can also see books used and annotated by Anne Boleyn herself. William Waldorf Astor renovated the palace in the early 20th century. The William Waldorf Astor is also famous for the Italian Gardens on the campus, which are open to the public for enjoyment.
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2.Leeds Castle
Easily accessible from London Victoria, Leeds Castle promises to be the perfect day out in Kent. Built in the 13th century and surrounded by 500 acres of open green parkland, it is one of the best castles to see near London. It became the home of the royals in 1270 and remained so for over 300 years. Leeds Castle is the destination for a variety of activities throughout the year. You can see falconry shows, Segway tours, the Dog Collar Museum or enjoy the castle. The castle was once the home of Catherine of Argonne, the first wife of Henry VIII.
When you are visiting Leeds Castle, you must visit the labyrinth. The experience will be incomplete until you get lost in the maze and try to find your way out. Additionally, if you can finish the maze, you will also be rewarded. Apart from this, you can also spend time in the moat built around the palace.
3. Dover Castle
Dover Castle is one of the most iconic castles in England. Just a few hours’ drive from London, this castle was the principal gateway to the English Empire for more than nine centuries. Therefore, it is also known as the “Key of England”. Located close to the sea, it has always been an excellent defensive structure for the empire. It was built on the site of a lighthouse in the 1180s when Henry II was ruling. For some time it was also used to provide accommodation to people visiting England. However, later on, Dover Castle proved to be one of the most effective castles in protecting England from foreign enemies. The manor also found good use during the Second World War. The tunnels, built in the Napoleonic era, were used to evacuate British troops from Dunkirk.
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4. Highclere Castle
One of the most beautiful castles to see in London is Highclere Castle. Reachable less than a few hours from London, Highclere Castle has been a famous filming location. Even the popular drama series – Downtown Abbey, was shot at this location. Series creator Julien Fallois had this castle in mind when writing the series. However, there is much more to this Victorian era castle than meets the eye.
The 5,000-acre estate located in West Berkshire is one of the most famous Castles near London to visit, The palace is still a residence and hence is open to the public only for a few days a year. Before visiting the palace, you will want to know whether the palace is open or not.
Nearly a hundred years ago, the castle served as the seat of George Edward Stanhope Molyneux Herbert – 5th Earl of Carnarvon. He was famous for discovering the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. When you visit this palace, you can see some unique artifacts, Egyptian jewelry, and learn how George Herbert came to discover the tomb.
5. Windsor Castle
When you are making a list of castles to visit in London, you cannot leave out Windsor Castle. It is one of the oldest medieval Castle near London, UK, In fact, it is the largest and oldest castle in the entire world and is the residence of the Queen of England. It is a palace near London Bridge and you can reach there in about an hour and a half by car from the bridge. Windsor Castle attractions include the State Apartment furnished with royal artifacts, Queen Mary’s doll house, and even the private apartments of George IV. After exploring Windsor Castle, you can also spend a few hours strolling along the Thames and visiting the famous Alton College.
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6. Hastings Castle
Famous for “The 1066 Story”, Hasting Castle played an important role during the Battle of Hastings. The castle is now being dismantled and is being used to show a 20-minute audio-visual program about the origins and history of the castle. Built by William of Normandy, Hastings Castle was the first Norman castle to be built in the region.
The castle had a turbulent past and later, King Henry VIII ordered the destruction of the church in the castle. Apart from this, this palace was heavily bombed during the Second World War. Therefore today a large part of it is in ruins. Nevertheless, it is a place of great historical importance and its ruins are quite a popular tourist attraction in their own right.
7. Tower of London
One of the most beautiful palaces to see near London is in London itself: the Tower of London. Located on the north bank of the River Thames, the Tower of London was founded during the Norman Conquest. It was built along with Hastings Castle. This building was used as a residence for the royals and was later converted into a prison. The most notable prisoner here was Elizabeth I, who later became Queen. It is from the Tower of London that the British phrase “send to the Tower” was coined. This tower is a great site for those who are interested in learning more about the intricacies of the European nation. It is quite easy to reach and hence should be a part of the itinerary of all visitors to London.
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8. Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is about three hours’ drive from London. It is situated on a hilltop next to a quaint village in Dorset. It was built during the 11th and 12th centuries using limestone and is 20 meters high. During the English Civil War, the castle was defended by Lady Bankes. Like many fortified forts in the region, the occupiers damaged the interiors so that the enemy could no longer use them. You can still see the murder holes and arrow holes.
9. Framlingham Castle
Framlingham Castle is less than three hours’ drive from London. Framlingham Castle is an example of classic “motte and bailey” fortification. Framlingham Castle has 13 towers and a storeroom which still attracts many tourists. Framlingham Castle played an important role during the Tudor period. There is an exhibition that allows visitors to see the history of the castle.
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10. Bodiam Castle
Bodiam Castle in East Sussex is one of the best examples of a medieval fortress. Even though the structure was built in the 14th century as a status symbol, it still has the characteristics of a fortified medieval castle. Even though the interiors are in ruins, the exteriors present a beautiful sight with tall towers and high walls. Apart from the beautiful views, the fort is a great backdrop for those who love clicking photographs. Be sure to visit this beautiful palace on your next trip to London.
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The glorious city of London is known for its rich history, which is represented by the palaces surrounding it. The palaces near London are a must-see when traveling to England, as they are the most prominent evidence of the rule of London’s queens and kings. If you are planning a trip to London, don’t forget to add these royal palaces to your list.
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