Beyond Windsor, These 5 English Castles Are Must-Visit Treasures

21.05.2024 - 09:09 / forbes.com

While England boasts world-renowned castles like Windsor and Warwick, which draw visitors from across the globe, the country also plays host to lesser-known castles equally grand and rich in history.

Explore the depth of England’s cultural heritage by incorporating one or more of these historic sites into your next British travel itinerary.

Managed by Britain’s National Trust, a conservation organization that safeguards Britain's natural and historical treasures, these castles—some intact and some in ruins—whisper tales of intrigue, ambition, and resilience.

Each property offers a unique glimpse into England's past, from medieval fortifications to romantic Victorian reconstructions, all set within the stunning landscapes that the National Trust works to protect.

Well known within England but perhaps lesser-so among international visitors, Bodiam Castle stands as a quintessential example of medieval fortification, constructed in the late 14th century amidst the turmoil of the Hundred Years' War.

Its design, with a nearly perfect moat, imposing towers, and defensive battlements, captures the imagination and transports visitors back to a time of knights and chivalry.

Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a knight who had proven his mettle under Edward III, was the founder of the castle. Though its ostensible purpose was to defend against French invasion, some historians suggest its grandeur was also meant to reflect Dalyngrigge's social status and wealth.

Beyond its martial significance, Bodiam Castle represents the height of 14th-century military architecture, designed not only for defense but also to impress and intimidate.

Today, it offers a window into medieval life, set against the tranquil backdrop of the East Sussex countryside. On calm days, its reflection in the surrounding moat creates a picturesque scene that embodies the romantic vision of English medieval castles.

Perched atop a natural hill in the heart of the Purbeck Hills, Corfe Castle ruins tell a tale of over a thousand years of English history.

Originating in the 11th century, possibly on the remnants of a Roman fortification, the castle has been a witness to pivotal events. Its location was strategically chosen to guard the principal route through the Purbeck, making it a linchpin in England's defensive network.

However, its significance also made it a target. Following the English Civil War, Corfe Castle was intentionally demolished in parts to prevent its further use as a military fortress.

What remains today is a hauntingly beautiful ruin, its broken silhouette a powerful symbol of resilience. Visible from miles away, it offers a striking contrast to the idyllic village of Corfe.

Despite the state of the ruins, there’s plenty to see and do on a