Some of the most famous castles in London and nearby are just waiting to take you back hundreds of years. Each one has its own story, royal connections, and astonishing architecture. So, if you love history, beautiful places, or simply want to experience a different side of London, keep reading. You might just find your next favourite day trip.

Windsor Castle

Standing proudly for nearly 1,000 years, Windsor Castle is one of the best castles in London, England. It is the oldest occupied castle in the world and continues to serve as an official residence of King Charles III. 

As you step inside Windsor Castle, you can’t help but admire the magnificent State Apartments, historic furnishings, royal collections, and priceless works of art. Another highlight is St. George’s Chapel, which is a Gothic church that has hosted royal weddings, funeral services, and royal burials for centuries. 

The castle welcomes visitors every day. Opening hours are 10:00 am to 5:15 pm between March and October, and 10:00 am to 4:15 pm from November to February. An early visit is a good idea if you want to watch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony before the crowds arrive.

Tower of London

No list of castles in London is complete without the Tower of London. It was built by William the Conqueror, and has served many purposes, including a royal residence, prison, armoury, and treasury. 

Today, it is home to the world-famous Crown Jewels, which are one of the biggest highlights for visitors. The opening times are from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm during school holidays; these can vary by season for the rest of the year.

You can also explore the White Tower, walk around the fortress, and spot the famous ravens that have been associated with the Tower for centuries.

Broughton Castle

Broughton Castle is one of England’s best-preserved medieval manor houses, surrounded by a wide moat and entered through an impressive gatehouse. You may recognise it from films such as Jane Eyre and Shakespeare in Love. 

The oldest sections date back to 1306, and the chapel was consecrated in 1331. Although it sits outside the capital, many travellers include it in their list of historic castles in London and nearby because of its easy day-trip location. 

Inside, you can see suits of armour, historic oil paintings, elegant furniture, and beautiful hand-painted Chinese wallpaper. Your visit also includes the colorful 19th-century Ladies’ Garden for a peaceful place to walk before heading to your next destination.

Leeds Castle

The “Loveliest Castle in the World,” Leeds Castle has welcomed visitors for centuries with its beautiful setting and remarkable history. Although it is located in Kent, many travellers include it in their day trips from London castles itinerary because the tour is easy and rewarding. 

The site has been home to a castle since the 9th century and later became a royal residence for King Edward I and Catherine of Aragon. You can walk through landscaped gardens, woodland trails, and colourful terraces before watching a falconry display or taking a relaxing ferry ride. 

Families can also enjoy adventure golf, medieval-themed playgrounds, and the unique Dog Collar Museum. Leeds Castle is open throughout the year, with seasonal events that are different each visit.

Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle is one of the finest medieval castles in London and nearby that you can visit on a day trip. Inside, you can admire antique paintings, historic furniture, coats of arms, and beautifully decorated rooms. 

Outside, the castle grounds include colourful gardens and the original Norman Keep, which remains one of the oldest parts of the estate. 

During the open season from April to October, your visit may also include medieval jousting tournaments, craft demonstrations, and other historical events. Before leaving, stop by the café or gift shop to pick up local treats and souvenirs from your visit.

Hever Castle

In Hever Castle, you get a chance to visit the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. This beautiful Tudor castle is one of the best castles in London and nearby for anyone interested in royal history.

Walk through the old gatehouse, and you’ll find rooms filled with Tudor portraits, rare prayer books, and historic collections that show what life was like in the 16th century. 

In addition, outside the castle, there are 125 acres of beautiful gardens to enjoy. You can walk around the lakes, find your way through the yew maze and water maze, see the waterfalls, or stop by the giant topiary chess set. 

Rochester Castle

More than 900 years of history live within the walls of Rochester Castle. Built in 1137, this impressive Norman fortress survived three major sieges before parts of it were left to become the striking ruins you see today. 

Its massive stone keep, rising 38 metres high, is one of the tallest surviving examples in Europe and remains the main highlight of every visit. Local fairs, seasonal festivals, and historical events also take place throughout spring and summer, which is another good reason to plan your visit during the warmer months.

Rochester is one of the popular day trips from London castles thanks to its convenient location and rich medieval history. You can climb through the keep, walk along the surviving castle walls, and enjoy panoramic views of the historic town and the River Medway. 

Bodiam Castle

Surrounded by a wide moat, with round towers, battlements, and a grand gatehouse, Bodiam Castle is one of the most photographed famous castles in London and nearby. Although parts of the castle are now in ruins, its original design is still easy to admire.

Your visit includes walking through the fortress’s ruins, learning about its history from costumed guides, and spotting centuries-old rituals that are carved into the stone for protection. 

During summer, the castle hosts medieval fairs and family-friendly events as well. After your tour, you can relax at one of the nearby cafés before continuing your journey through the English countryside.

Herstmonceux Castle

Built in the 15th century, Herstmonceux Castle is among the historic castles in London and nearby thanks to its unique combination of heritage, gardens, and open green spaces. The estate features beautifully maintained gardens, including a rose garden with several working sundials. 

You can also spot carved wooden sculptures, stroll beside the moat, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds. Before leaving, stop by the Chestnuts Tea Room for a light meal or afternoon tea.

Scotney Castle

Scotney Castle offers two historic landmarks in one visit. The estate includes the romantic ruins of a medieval castle set on a small island and a Victorian country house built later to replace it. 

This unique setting makes it one of the best castles in London and nearby for visitors who enjoy history, architecture, and beautifully maintained landscapes in one place. Your visit includes woodland paths, colourful seasonal gardens, and peaceful lakeside views across the estate. 

The grounds are also dog-friendly. In addition, before heading back, you can browse the gift shop for books, plants, and locally inspired souvenirs.

See the Best Castles Without the Stress with MyTailoredTours

After reading about these famous castles in London, you might already be thinking about which one you’ll visit first. Well, the good news is that you don’t have to deal with the hassle of planning routes, checking train schedules, and managing everything on your own. If you’d also like to avoid long queues and busy attractions, check out our guide on how to avoid the crowds in London before your trip.

You can leave it to us, MyTailoredTours. We provide a private tour planned around your interests, your pace, and your schedule. 

Our local guides share the stories behind every castle, so your visit becomes much more meaningful. Call MyTailoredTours today or book your tour online, and enjoy a comfortable day visiting some of England’s most remarkable castles with everything arranged for you. 

FAQs

Q1. How many castles are in London?

A: The Tower of London is the main castle in the City of London. There are more castles on the outskirts of London that make for good day trips. For more castle options, nearby towns offer more castles that are historic and fun to explore also.

Q2. Which castle did Anne Boleyn live in?

A: Hever Castle is Boleyn’s childhood home. Hever has many rooms and a beautiful garden, which allow the public to explore the home of Anne Boleyn before she became the second wife to King Henry VIII.

Q3. Which castle is the best to visit in London?

A: Ultimately, it is up to you. If you enjoy royal history, Windsor Castle is great to visit. If you enjoy scenic castles, visit Bodiam Castle. If you are traveling with a family, Leeds Castle will be best for you.

Q4. Are there castles you can visit on a day trip in London?

A: Yes, for many of those castles you can. Some castles are well connected with roads and trains where you can return to London for the evening after exploring for a few hours.

Q5. What should be packed for a castle trip?

A: Castle grounds are large and require a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes. Bring snacks and check opening times so you don’t get disappointed. The photogenic castle and grounds are great places to bring a camera.