Guide to castles near London

Possibly the most famous castle on the list, the Tower of London sits right in the heart of the capital and remains an imposing and impressive structure. Visitors are welcome to tour the grounds and buildings and discover more about its history. Fascinating artefacts are displayed here, most notably the Crown Jewels.

A surprising sight in South East London, Severndroog Castle is an impressive folly of a gothic castle. Nestled in the woods, the structure dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can see the ornate castle rooms, visit the observation deck for impressive views, or relax in the castle's tea room. Events regularly take place here too.

Notable landmark Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Located in Windsor, a short distance outside of London, visitors can tour the grounds, see the impressive art collection, visit the chapel, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

A short distance north of London in Hertfordshire, Berkhamsted Castle is a ruined ancient castle that was originally built in the 11th century. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the space as they wander the ruined building and the moat, which still contains water most of the time.

Head to the quaint town of Lewes to visit Lewes Castle & Museum. Climb the steps at this East Sussex attraction to take in panoramic views of the county. Visitors can learn about the castle's history and how it shaped the development of the town. There's plenty of outdoor space to stroll around, as well as events like theatre productions.

Despite the name, Leeds Castle isn't located in Leeds and is easy to access from London. Set on an island in a lake, this one is unquestionably romantic. It doesn't just look good - there are lots of attractions to interest the whole family. As well as the castle, there's a maze, kids' play areas, a birds of prey centre with falconry displays, and gardens.

Highclere Castle has a lengthy history going back to 749, and has evolved a lot during all that time. Guests are welcome to join a tour to discover more about it, but a variety of events take place at the castle too. Expect seasonal activities like champagne receptions, Easter egg hunts, and summer garden parties. It's also a popular choice for a wedding venue.

Rochester Castle in Kent is easy to reach from London. This castle has a rich and complex past and visitors are welcome to come and find out more. Interactive displays in various parts of the castle really bring it to life. As well as the castle itself, there are large grounds that visitors are free to explore, and you're welcome to bring a picnic too.

Hever Castle & Gardens is set in more than 100 acres of award-winning grounds. It's a popular place to visit, with lots of attractions to enjoy. As well as having its own golf course, the castle grounds include a boating lake, model houses, mazes, and children's play areas. It's a popular place for weddings and there's also guest accommodation on the site.

Looking like it's come straight out of a fairytale, Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century castle surrounded by a moat, considered one of the most idyllic in the country. The place is full of history and has a romantic feel. Visitors can check out the towers and moat, visit the tea room and gift shop, and embrace the thriving natural landscape surrounding the castle.

Warwick Castle was built in 1608 by William the Conqueror and is located a couple of hours away from London. Today, it's a popular visitor attraction - come for the day or stay in the overnight accommodation here. This imposing structure is set within 64 acres of land. Guests can explore the building and grounds and join activities that make history come alive.

The iconic Dover Castle is located on the coast in Kent. It's been there since the 11th century and is popular with visitors today. History is brought to life through walking tours, a museum, interactive activities, and special events. Visitors can also stay at the castle; guest accommodation is available in cottages on the grounds.

Visit Donnington Castle for an unusual place to walk or have a picnic. The twin-towered gatehouse of this ruined 14th century castle remains in place, as well as the earthworks that reveal the original structure of the castle. Visitors are welcome at any time. The site is popular with dog walkers and car parking is available.

Camber Castle dates back to the 16th century. This castle and device fort was designed to defend England from attack by France. This remote and rugged structure remains unaltered and is surrounded by sheep that roam freely. It's set within a nature reserve and visitors can view it at any time or arrange a special guided tour.

Ruined structure Hastings Castle overlooks the English Channel. Visitors get impressive views of the town and the surrounding area. The castle was originally built in 1067 and is now a popular spot for walking and picnicking. If you're keen to know more about its past, there's an on-site cinema that screens a short film about its history.

Dramatic Framlingham Castle has a history going back to the 12th century. This fortress is surrounded by attractive parkland with a lake. Visit this castle and you can learn more about the stories connected to it, and join activities like visiting the workhouse or walking the castle's walls. There's also a gift shop here for buying a special souvenir.

Formerly a royal castle, Rockingham Castle in Northamptonshire has a history of almost 1,000 years. The castle is a popular setting for weddings but you can also visit simply to explore the castle, gardens, and tea room. A variety of exciting events take place here too, such as snowdrop trails, medieval festivals, and seasonal markets.

Historic Carisbrooke Castle is located on the Isle of Wight and has lots to explore on a visit. Walk the castle walls for impressive panoramic views, visit the chapel, or check out the on-site museum. You can also explore the grounds, which is home to a number of donkeys. There's a tea room at the site as well.

Tonbridge Castle stands over the market town of Tonbridge in Kent. It was originally built in the 13th century. Visitors are welcome to tour the castle and to enjoy a walk around its lawns - feel free to bring along a picnic. The castle is packed full of history and is easily accessible from the centre of Tonbridge.

At Oxford Castle & Prison, you can immerse yourself in more than 1,000 years of history. This partly-ruined medieval castle is now a major attraction in Oxford. Get panoramic views from the top of the tower, head down into the crypt, and see an 18th-century prison cell. The castle also puts on a variety of events like ghost tours.

Guildford Castle was built around 1066 in Surrey. These days it's open to visitors and is popular for the sweeping views you get from the Great Tower. This castle is also known for its spacious gardens, which include vibrant floral displays, a bandstand, statues, and a bowling green. Open air concerts and theatre shows take place during warmer months.

Wallingford Castle was previously a major medieval castle in Oxfordshire but these days it's a ruined structure. Built in 1067, its dramatic ruins are surrounded by 16.6 hectares of meadowland, Wallingford Castle Meadows. Visit this riverside location for a relaxing walk or to take some eye-catching photos.

Essex is home to Colchester Castle, which is the largest Norman keep in Europe. It's been there for nearly 1,000 years and is now a popular, family-friendly museum. The interactive exhibits and impressive artefacts will entertain every age group. There are also daily guided tours and activities like storytelling sessions.