Israel, where I grew up, is a place of thousands of years of history and ancient architecture and world heritage sites are a common sight. Having said that, I’ve never seen a real life castle before I moved to the UK. Fascinated by the idea of exploring these magnificent monuments and the history behind them, I’ve made it my mission to explore as many of these as I possibly can, as long as they are close enough to North London for a day trip and pet friendly wherever possible.
From my family’s experience, I’ve put together this list of our favourite castles near London, perfect for a day trip below, and I’ve thrown in a few of my must-visit castles inside London for even shorter trip or in case there’s no car available (even though I highly recommend to hire a car and explore these beautiful castles outside the city).
Each castle, palace or monument on this list has been tried-and-tested from experience and includes
1. travel time by car (from North London, where I live) or by public transport (if similar or straightforward).
2. If it’s included in a National Trust or English Heritage membership (hence free for members).
3. If it’s not included in any of these programmes, relevant discounts will be added if applicable.
4. Whether it’s pet/kid friendly or not
5. Nearby food options.
But before we dig in, here is some more information about the UK’s leading heritage sites membership programmes and why you need them if you plan on exploring these landmarks on the list and beyond.
How to Save Money on Castle Entries: English Heritage and National Trust
As much as exploring breath-taking castles is one of my most loved escapes from everyday life, it’s important to note that it doesn’t come without cost and this cost can become quite significant unless you plan the frequency of your journeys as well as your choice of castles to visit in advance.
The two main UK historical conservation societies, National Trust and English Heritage, not only keep these monuments maintained, but once you become a member of your chosen society they give you benefits such as free entry to their different properties, free parking, as well as a magazine subscription and a handbook included within the cost of your membership to help you plan your next destination.
A few tips to plan your next castle day trips on a budget:
- Choosing your castle destinations in advance is key
English Heritage and National Trust maintain different historical properties. Once you know which landmarks you want to get to, take time to research which historical society they belong to. If my choice of recommended castles from experience tickles your fancy, I went ahead and included this information right next to each to save you some valuable time.
- Pick the society that covers most castles you’re planning on exploring as well as the membership plan that works best for you
- A National Trust membership cost ranges between £84 a year per individual to £146.40 a year for a family of 4.
- An English Heritage membership cost ranges between £69 a year per individual to £120 a year for a family of for
- Lifetime plans are also available on each, but unless there are very specific historical landmarks that you know for fact you’ll return to frequently, I wouldn’t recommend it as someone who prefers being open and flexible (and perhaps unpredictable) about the next destinations.
- No one is stopping you from getting your membership in both societies if you’re certain about exploring the UK far and wide. Both will give you access to over 900 properties at the cost of the subscription.
- Bear in mind that not all castles and historical monuments are covered by these two important historical societies – There are additional societies such as the Historic Houses Association (HHA), Historic Scotland, Cadw and others that offer annual membership or a one time entry ticket.
- Some historical properties have their own societies and offer their own annual memberships or a one time entry ticket (e.g. Blenheim Palace, one of the lovely palaces on my list).
My top historical landmark tips:
- If I was only given the option to visit one historical monument in the UK that would most likely be Stonehenge. A one-time entry ticket to Stonehenge for a family of 4-5 currently costs £76. An English Heritage membership (that will allow you to enter Stonehenge without any extra cost) costs £120 a year, allowing you not only to visit this one-of-a-kind landmark but also more than 400 other properties that year.
- If you pair Stonehenge with Dover Castle for example, that also costs £76 per family without a membership, an English Heritage membership is definitely cheaper than one off tickets.
- Throwing in a quick lifehack into the mix, English Heritage often give out 25% discount codes in an ad that appears when you google them like so (which I have tried and tested many times
- The National Trust also gives discounts and coupon codes when you search for them in Google, those are usually advertised on the UKs biggest online newspapers like the Telegraph and the Daily Mirror (which I’ve tried and tested otherwise it wouldn’t be mentioned). Be sure to check if those are still out there before you purchase your membership
- If your chosen historical properties are not maintained by either English Heritage or National Trust, Be sure to check out Picniq, my trusted discount site for various UK activities, and look up that castle you want to visit that’s not covered by the biggest historical societies. At the moment Picniq offers 11% on Leeds Castle entry tickets.
Now Without further ado, here’s my list of my
Best castles for day trips outside London
Bodiam Castle, Robertsbridge, East Sussex
Car travel time: 2 hrs
Historical preservation society: National Trust
Bodiam Castle holds a special place in my heart as my favourite castle on this list. With its remarkable mediaeval architecture and captivating moat that adding mystery and charm – it is exactly how I imagined a fairytale castle would look like. Its expansive gardens surrounding this historical gem provide the ideal spot for family picnics or simply relaxation against its picturesque background.
But Bodiam Castle offers more than its stunning exterior; once inside you’ll discover interactive exhibits bringing history alive for all ages. Outside, woodland trails welcome curious explorers in search of adventure – making it a destination worth revisiting again and again (as it has been for me).
Lastly, yes! Bodiam Castle is pet-friendly. Dogs are welcome in its grounds so bring along your furry companion for an enjoyable outing at this historical site, as long as you keep them on a lead.
Dover Castle, Dover, Kent
Car travel time: 2 hrs
(1 hr 35 mins by train from London St. Pancras)
Historical preservation society: English Heritage
Dover Castle sits high on top of the White Cliffs of Dover and it is often known as the ‘Key to England’ due to its historical defensive importance. The mediaeval castle contains secret wartime tunnels (which you can explore once an hour) that played an essential part in Dunkirk evacuation during World War II – making for an unforgettable learning experience for my kids as they discovered Operation Dynamo through fun interactive exhibits! (though no pictures were allowed down there)
Pets are welcome to explore Dover Castle’s vast outdoor spaces, and there is also a cafe offering sandwiches, pastries and hot beverages. Don’t stop at Dover Castle though, I highly recommend a long scenic walk on the breathtaking White Cliffs for making lifelong memories. Make sure to always bring a jacket as it can get very windy up there.
The combination of history lessons and breathtaking views make Dover Castle a must visit.
Rochester Castle, Rochester, Kent
Car travel time: 1 hr 15 mins
(55 mins by train from London Victoria)
Historical preservation society: English Heritage
Rochester Castle stands proudly over the River Medway from its spot on its eastern bank. A tour through this well-preserved Norman fortress with one of the best kept keeps in England and France is highly recommended (and of course included with your entry), making this visit both educational and fun for children as they learn about past sieges and battles.
Rochester Castle grounds are pet-friendly (on a lead), which makes it ideal for a family day out with your beloved dog. Although there is no café in the castle grounds, there is a shop that sells a selection of drinks and snacks and there is a selection of lovely nearby pubs.
Top tip: Come during peak wintertime (Nov-Dec) when the castle becomes the centre of Rochester Christmas Market, filled with food stalls and a wonderful funfair for the kids to enjoy. This market is definitely one of my favourites
Scotney Castle, Kent
Car travel time: 1 hr 40 mins
Historical preservation society: National Trust
Scotney Castle, located in the serene and beautiful Kentish countryside, is a delightful combination of beautiful gardens and intriguing historical ruins. A visit here feels like stepping into a painting, where nature and history blend harmoniously. Kids will have a blast exploring the castle grounds, as various trails and quizzes keep them engaged and curious, offering insights into the castle’s fascinating past and the diverse wildlife that calls it home.
For families with pets, the castle welcomes dogs in most areas (Except the main house, where only assistance dogs are allowed, the old castle and the Walled Garden, but they are welcome in the tea room on most occasions) and the onsite tea room is a delight. The tea room’s cosy setting and delightful selection of cakes provide the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Scotney Castle offers a splendid escape from the bustling world, where history, nature, and family fun come together to create cherished memories for years to come.
Hadleigh Castle, Essex
Car travel time: 1 hr 15 mins
Historical preservation society: English Heritage (free entry)
Hadleigh Castle, situated in Essex, offers an interesting blend of history and stunning scenery. Overlooking the Thames Estuary, the castle might be mostly in ruins, but it still captivates visitors with its past and the remarkable views. The crumbling walls and towers spark interest, making it a worthwhile spot for exploration.
No matter that Hadleigh Castle is more of a monument mostly in ruins, a visit still provides plenty of imaginative playspace for kids and welcomes dogs.
When hunger strikes, you’re in luck. The area around Hadleigh Castle boasts a range of local pubs and food options to choose from and the historic Rayleigh Windmill is another nearby historical landmark.
Stonehenge, Salisbury, Wiltshire
Car travel time: 2 hrs 5 mins
(2 hrs 20 mins by train from Waterloo Station)
Historical preservation society: English Heritage
And the bonus, Stonehenge! Though it’s not really a castle, Stonehenge in Wiltshire is a site of international renown that you don’t want to miss. This ancient monument sparks the imagination, particularly for older children who are keen on history. The mysterious circle of stones is a testament to our prehistoric ancestors, and the questions surrounding its origins and purpose can fill a whole day with the family.
After you’ve spent time exploring the stones and pondering their mysteries, the visitor centre café is a welcoming spot to rest and refuel. It serves a variety of hot and cold meals that cater to different tastes, making it a comfortable end to a day spent stepping back in time at Stonehenge.
Top tip: It’s worth noting that while dogs are permitted in the car park, they’re not allowed on the actual monument grounds, so you might probably want to leave your pet at home for this one (we took turns staying outside with our dog and couldn’t be together as a family). I also recommend stopping by the nearby Woodhenge for some family fun.
Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire
Car travel time: 1 hr
(50 mins by tube and train from London’s Tottenham Court Road)
Historical preservation society: Royal Collection Trust (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
Located a mere stone’s throw from the heart of London, Windsor Castle serves as an enchanting escape into the realms of regal splendour. As one of the Queen’s official residences, this historical fortress, with its dramatic round tower and sprawling gardens, is nothing short of a fairy tale brought to life. An audio tour is available for visitors, and to the delight of my little ones, there’s a version especially curated for children. This engaging tour guides you through captivating tales of valiant knights, powerful kings, and grand queens, ensuring my kids were hooked from start to finish.
When it comes to pet-friendliness, pets are not allowed within the Castle grounds, with the exception of assistance dogs, however pets are welcome in the beautiful and vast parks surrounding the castle. As the kids and our pet enjoyed the expansive garden area, we adults found our culinary delight at the Crooked Tea House. Located conveniently within the Castle complex, it’s famous for its scrumptious scones, a must-try when in Windsor. Whether you’re a family with history-enthused kids, a pet parent, or just a fan of the royals, Windsor Castle delivers an unforgettable day out.
Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent
Car travel time: 1 hr 16 mins
Historical preservation society: Leeds Castle charitable foundation (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
With its stunning exterior, Leeds Castle is more than just a historical monument – it’s an entire day’s worth of adventure thanks to its vast and beautiful surrounding gardens. When you enter the castle and wander its grand rooms and hallways, its interiors will feel as if you’re transported through time!
But it’s not all about the past at Leeds Castle. There’s plenty for the kids to get stuck into as well. What had my children chattering all the way home was the exciting mazes and playgrounds. From navigating their way through twisting hedges to running around and making use of the palace’s full schedule of daily activities, their energy knew no bounds. To top it all off, Leeds Castle is also home to a unique Dog Collar Museum. Your four-legged friend is more than welcome here, making it an absolute pet-friendly treat. To top it all off, Leeds Castle has hosts one of my favourite Christmas Market in the winter, be sure to schedule your next trip then.
Hever Castle, Edenbridge, Kent
Car travel time: 1 hr 30 mins
(1 hr 21 mins by train from London Victoria)
Historical preservation society: Hever Castle and Gardens (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
Tucked away in the beautiful countryside of Edenbridge, Kent, Hever Castle is a wonderful place that once was home to the Boleyn family, including the well-known Anne Boleyn. The castle is full of history; every corner has a story to tell and offers a peek into the past, which fascinates adults and children alike.
However, it’s not all about learning at Hever Castle, as my children would confirm. They were particularly impressed by the water maze, a fun feature that had them racing and laughing for hours. Our dog also had a grand day out, thanks to the castle’s pet-friendly approach. When hunger struck, we took a break in the garden restaurant, savouring some tasty sandwiches and comforting pies. To conclude, Hever Castle is a top choice for a day out, appealing to those who love history, kids who enjoy a bit of fun, and pet owners too.
Arundel Castle, Arundel, West Sussex
Car travel time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Historical preservation society: Arundel Castle and Gardens (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
Arundel Castle with its impressive Norman keep and grand interior feels like walking in a history book. Each room features exquisite decor that showcases England’s vibrant past – it truly feels as if you have journeyed back through time to the days of knights and kings as you discover every corner of the castle.
But Arundel Castle offers more than just history; during Medieval Tournament Week in the summer it comes alive with fun for both children and adults alike! Kids love it when knights joust for glory while supporters cheer their favourite knight. When hunger strikes Arundel’s restaurant serves delicious homemade food.
Sadly, only Assistance Dogs are permitted in Arundel Castle, so your pet will have to miss out on this one.
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Car travel time: 1 hr 30 mins
Historical preservation society: Blenheim Palace (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
Blenheim Palace, located in Oxfordshire’s beautiful countryside, is known for being Sir Winston Churchill’s childhood home (In case you skipped a few history lessons, he was one of Britain’s acclaimed statesmen and leaders during World War II).
Take a guided tour inside the palace to discover its luxurious rooms and learn its history and special significance in British History. Its impressive architecture and expansive gardens make the palace an excellent option for family visits of any age looking for an enjoyable way to spend an entire day!
Pets on leads are welcome on the palace grounds (but not inside the Palace, Great Court or West Courtyard, including Stables Cafe and Formal or Walled Gardens) After your tour experience you can choose one of seven delicious eateries on site!
Blenheim Palace is known for its popup markets and events happening all year round (especially on Christmastime) so make sure to check the palace website to decide on the best time to come.
Herstmonceux Castle, Halisham, East Sussex
Car travel time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Historical preservation society: Herstmonceux Castle Estate (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
In the heart of East Sussex lies the charming Herstmonceux Castle, a destination that magically blends history, nature, and science. This place is truly unique, offering an intriguing journey back in time, complemented by a science centre that fascinates with its educational exhibits. The surrounding woodland walks, alive with the rustling of leaves and chirping of birds, add an extra touch of enchantment to the experience.
The science centre at Herstmonceux is a definite hit amongst the younger visitors. With interactive displays it’s an adventure of discovery that keeps the children engaged and entertained. And for our canine companions, the castle’s grounds are a paradise, provided they are kept on leads. When it comes to refuelling after your tour, the castle has got you covered, with a variety of cafes and food outlets serving a range of delicious options. All in all, Herstmonceux Castle offers an experience that caters to all interests and tastes, making it a perfect choice for a family day trip.
The Brighton Pavilion, Brighton, East Sussex
Car travel time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Historical preservation society: Brighton and Hove Museums (not included within English Heritage or National Trust)
The Brighton Pavilion was initially built as a royal residence for Prince George IV while still Prince, later becoming King George IV himself and still using it as his retreat and entertaining venue. Though not technically a castle, The Brighton Pavilion without a doubt deserves to make it into this list. With its grand architecture and lavish interiors, this remarkable structure is so luxurious that it impresses both adults and children. Rooms adorned with extravagant decor take visitors back in time to different cultures while its lovely gardens make the perfect place to stroll through nature.
As Brighton Pavilion does not permit pets inside, its surrounding area provides plenty of ways for your furry friend to remain entertained. Parks and beaches make for excellent dog walking spots nearby while it is conveniently situated near child-friendly restaurants that cater to various tastes and appetites. A visit to Brighton Pavilion with its historical grandeur, beautiful gardens, and nearby amenities makes a wonderful day trip destination for the whole family!
Best castles to visit inside London
Fear not if you don’t own a car; London itself offers unmissable castles waiting to be discovered! Prepare to dive deep into captivating stories and royal intrigue as we uncover London’s must-see castles; from royal residences to iconic landmarks – these historical gems can all be found within a tube or bus ride from anywhere in London. So let us put on our adventurer hats and set out on an adventure to discover London’s most-see castles.
Please note that none of these landmarks are included within National Trust or English Heritage memberships.
Tower of London, London
Travel to: Embankment Tube Station
Historical preservation society: Historic Royal Palaces (entry to all 6 palaces from £55 per year)
The iconic Tower of London has served many functions over its long history: Prison, palace, treasury and even a zoo! Children will enjoy hearing the tales about ravens, Crown Jewels and ghostly appearances from Beefeaters who offer tours around the complex – making history accessible and fun! These guards really make history come to life. The Crown Jewels exhibition is an absolute must see and it is included in your ticket.
With only trained assistance and medical alert dogs allowed inside the Tower, you might want to keep your pet at home for this one, however there are numerous pet-friendly spaces nearby. When it comes to food options, the Tower of London has two restaurants onsite, however there are plenty of food options outside in the heart of central london like the highly rated Gaucho Tower Bridge if you fancy a good steak or the The Ivy Tower Bridge for a brasserie experience.
Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey
Travel to: Hampton Court Rail Station
Historical preservation society: Historic Royal Palaces (entry to all 6 palaces from £55 per year)
Hampton Court Palace was a favourite of King Henry VIII and offers visitors an unforgettable experience, featuring its world-famous maze, lush gardens and charming Magic Garden for children to play in, with an optional paid carriage ride to make their day. Inspired by Tudor mythology, this magical space features towers, sand pits and even a dragon for maximum fun play time – truly an amazing playground for young explorers!
Pets are not permitted within the palace, courtyards or gardens unless they are trained assistance dogs, so you might want to leave your pet at home until the next adventure.
Buckingham Palace, London
Travel to: Green Park Tube Station
Historical preservation society: Royal Collection Trust (not included within English Heritage, National Trust nor Historic Royal Palaces)
Buckingham Palace is an iconic London landmark that you should definitely visit at least once in your life. As home of King Charles III and his Queen Consort Camilla, it provides entertainment for the whole family even without being allowed inside. Kids will enjoy watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony where soldiers guarding the palace take turns changing shifts – it is full of tradition while remaining entertaining to watch!
As pets aren’t allowed inside or nearby the palace, this might just be human-only. As for keeping your belly happy, there are plenty of eateries nearby offering quick snacks or full meals to satisfy everyone’s hunger after an afternoon of sightseeing. Please note that The State Rooms are only open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer and on selected dates during winter and spring. Make sure to book your ticket well in advance.
The Palace of Westminster, London
Travel to: Westminster Tube Station
Historical preservation society: UK Parliament (not included within English Heritage, National Trust nor Historic Royal Palaces)
Also known as the Houses of Parliament, the Palace of Westminster is an iconic London landmark of beautiful Gothic Revival architecture. The Palace of Westminster should be on any itinerary on a Central London visit. Renowned for being the home of the newly refurbished and iconic Big Ben clock tower, tours may not be suitable for younger children; however, all can appreciate the building from outside and capture memories that teach about UK history and architecture.
Pets aren’t permitted at the Palace, so probably keep your pet at home for another day, but its central London location makes this visit worthwhile, offering ample dining options nearby – whether that’s quick snacks or sit-down meals.
Strawberry Hill House and Gardens, Twickenham
Travel to: Strawberry Hill Rail Station
Historical preservation society: Strawberry Hill House and Gardens (not included within English Heritage, National Trust nor Historic Royal Palaces)
Strawberry Hill House stands as a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, offering visitors of all ages an engaging architectural tour experience. Children, in particular, will love exploring its intricate details and beautiful setting – particularly thanks to discovery packs and garden trails provided by Strawberry Hill House! These activities make visits fun while providing access to its fascinating past as they discover tales about its history whilst exploring its delightful gardens.
Unfortunately dogs are not permitted to enter the House or Gardens (unless they are assistance dogs) so your pet will join you on the next adventure
If exploring has made you hungry, Strawberry Hill House cafe is here to save the day with homemade cakes and sandwiches!
There are many other castles and historical monuments to explore that are included within National Trust or English Heritage membership, but I’ve only included the wonderful castles that I’ve personally visited with my family. You might want to explore other castles on my to do list that are close enough for a day trip such as Deal Castle (English Heritage), 1066 Battle of Hastings (English Heritage), Warwick Castle (own historical society).
