Castles TO VISIT

With so much history to choose from, get inspiration for your next trip and discover these classic castles.

Hever Castle & Gardens

Experience over 700 years of history at the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The splendid rooms contain an important collection of Tudor paintings and two prayer books inscribed by Anne Boleyn. Set in 125 acres of glorious grounds, autumn is the season when Hever’s striking trees come to the fore. hevercastle.co.uk // info@hevercastle.co.uk

Inveraray Castle and Gardens

Experience the elegance and grandeur of Inveraray Castle and Gardens, on the shores of Loch Fyne. The castle was the home of the Duke of Argyll since the 1700s, and the seat of the Clan Campbell. Enjoy original Adams’ ceilings, tapestries and antique furniture along with a vast array of arms, armoury and artefacts. Call 01499 302 203 for information. Inveraray-castle.com // enquiries@inveraray-castle.com

Chirk Castle

Construction of Chirk Castle began in the late 13th century, during the reign of Edward I, as part of his ring of fortifications in North Wales. The home of the Myddelton family since 1595, visitors can explore dank dungeons, lavish interiors, award-winning gardens and over 480 acres of landscaped parkland. Visit the Chirk Castle Facebook page to stay up to date. nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle // 01691 777 701

Castle Rushen

At the heart of the Isle of Man’s ancient capital, Castletown, stands Castle Rushen. One of the best preserved medieval castles in the British Isles, the fortress was once home to the Kings and Lords of Mann. Explore the castle’s furnished chambers, and discover over 800 years of stories hidden within its walls. manxnationalheritage.im // enquiries@mnh.gov.im

Picton Castle

Set in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and surrounded by a spectacular 40 acre garden, Picton Castle originated in the 13th century, with a splendid Georgian wing added in the 1790s. A treasured family home for over 700 years, the elegant rooms feature opulent French furnishings, magnificent fireplaces and fine works of art. pictoncastle.co.uk // 01437 751326

Belvoir Castle

One of the finest surviving examples of Regency architecture in the world, Belvoir Castle stands proud above Leicestershire’s stunning Vale of Belvoir. A 19th Century castle, it’s full of interesting artefacts and treasures collected by the Dukes of Rutland over the centuries. It’s far from ordinary. belvoircastle.com // 01476 871001