Top 5 Picturesque Castles in England

From the legends of King Arthur to the wizardry of Harry Potter, castles have a universal appeal with their mystery and enchanting quality. England is still peppered with hundreds of stunning castles in various states of repair and use, from ruins to fully occupied residences.

Here are 5 of the most picturesque which are certainly worth heading for when planning your next vacation in England.

Leeds Castle, Kent

The self-proclaimed 'loveliest castle in the world' certainly delivers with its stunning setting as you approach it from the far side of the surrounding moat. Surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens the site includes a duckery, maze, vineyard and grotto to explore.

Reflecting gracefully in the still waters at its base, where a castle has stood since 1119 AD, much of the castle buildings today date from the 19th Century. Before the 17th Century, the castle was owned by the crown and became a favorite haunt of Henry VIII who stayed here on numerous occasions.

Ownership passed to the infamous Anglo-American heiress Lady Baillie in the early 20th century. She invested much of her inherited wealth in restoring the castle and grounds which give it a stately home feel today. The castle soon became a notorious weekend retreat with notable guests including Charlie Chaplin, Errol Flynn and James Bond author Ian Fleming.

Bodiam Castle, East Sussex

Constructed in the 14th century to defend England from French attack during the Hundred Years War, Bodiam Castle offers a great insight into daily life from centuries past. The surrounding moat has been retained, literally reflecting the raw fairytale beauty and romantic aura of this Medieval structure.

The striking design, complete with huge drum towers on each corner and multiple drawbridges, was as much a statement of wealth and power as it is a fortification. Visitors still cross over the drawbridges to reach the interior, much of which is now an open space, but enough of the structure survives to feel the mighty fortress that Bodiam once was.

Today the castle remains are brought to life by the brewster, forester and other colorful character actors on site. These costume-clad folk will help you understand the day-to-day trials and tribulations of the former inhabitants in a fun and entertaining way.

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Alnwick is an intriguing castle of two halves. Whilst from the outside the imposing walls of this 14th century gothic style are imposing, inside the rooms resemble an Italian Renaissance palace after extensive renovations in the 19th century.

The bizarre mix of styles from centuries apart add to the charm of Alnwick, which is fittingly home to an impressive art collection including works by Gainsborough, Canaletto and Van Dyck amongst others. The castle has also provided a fitting backdrop to the TV drama Downton Abbey, the first two Harry Potter films and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Close by you'll find the recently restored Alnwick Gardens which are now separately owned but you can still buy a combined admission ticket for the castle and gardens.

Hever Castle, Kent

Once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I, Hever Castle dates back to the 13th century. The moat, drawbridge and ghost stories here, combined with the surrounding 125-acre gardens, provide the complete childhood fairytale package.

Inside the castle, oak paneled rooms, fine furniture, tapestries and antiques combine to transport you back a few centuries. Soak up hundreds of years of history as you explore the rooms via the narrow creaking corridors, pausing to marvel at the illuminated "Book of Hours" inscribed by Anne Boleyn.

The expansive gardens feature a 38-acre lake plus numerous cascades, grottoes and fountains. Children will also love exploring the Splashing Water Maze and the Model House Exhibition at Hever.

Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

Head down to the rugged Cornish coastline for a truly unique castle experience. Perched high on the windswept cliff edge, with the rough crashing waves just a few meters below, sits Tintagel Castle.

Constructed in the 13th century, little remains of the castle today beyond a few moss-covered stone walls which are perpetually battered by the wind and rain. You can still gain an idea of the original size of the complex which was thought to have been abandoned by the 14th century.

The site is enshrined in English folklore as Tintagel is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Also situated just below the castle is 'Merlin's Cave', where the mythical wizard Merlin supposedly lived.

Visiting castles on your trip to England is an absolute must! Hopefully, you'll be able to check out one (or more) of our favorites listed above.

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