Our Top 5 UK Castles – Including Caernarfon of Course!

Caernarfon Castle, Caernarfon, Wales

One of the most famous castles in Wales, Caernarfon Castle is a commanding structure overlooking the River Seiont and Menai Strait. It looks today much as it would have done when building was completed in 1330. Built to resemble the ancient Roman city of Constantinople, Caernarfon’s colour-banded walls and unusual hexagonal towers make it one of the most unique castles in the whole of the UK. This fantastic World Heritage Site is also home to the Regimental Museum of the Royal Welch Fusiliers.

Bodium Castle, East Sussex, England

Bodium is as close to a fairytale castle as you will find in England. Built in 1385 as both a defence and a comfortable home, the real treat here is the castle moat. The virtually complete structure rises majestically above the moat, appearing to float on water. Cross over the drawbridge into the castle and you’ll be treated to beautifully restored interiors that give you a realistic impression of what the castle would have looked like when it was inhabited. Climb to the battlements for views across the Rother Valley, and enjoy a spot of archery and jousting demonstrations too.

Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Scotland

One of the most famous castles in Scotland, this is a must-see for anyone visiting the Inverness area. Although in a ruinous state, the exterior still makes for a dramatic structure. Located on the banks of Loch Ness, there are idyllic photo opportunities galore and it makes for an excellent vantage point when you’re trying to spot Nessie in the Loch! The castle is home to a wonderful exhibition and film, a souvenir shop, and a lovely café where you can sample some local home baking.

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland

Towering above Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most-visited sites in the country. Lit up at night it makes for a breathtaking sight, and there’s plenty to see and do once you’re inside too. As well as affording panoramic views of the city, you can explore the Royal Palace rooms, once home to Scotland’s royalty where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI in 1566, tour the National War Museum Scotland, and marvel at the Honours of the Kingdom – the Scottish crown jewels and the oldest royal regalia in the UK. The strong-of-stomach can venture down into the castle dungeons too, said to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland!

Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland

There are many Irish castles to choose from on a trip to Northern Ireland, but Carrickfergus Castle stands out as it is one of the best-preserved ancient castles in the country. With over 800 years of military history behind it, the castle has been besieged the Scots, Irish, English and French over the centuries, but still stands strong. The interiors are wonderfully preserved, especially the breathtaking banquet hall, and children will love the life-size historical figures dotted around the castle grounds too.

If you’re looking for accommodation for your Great British castle tour, we recommend checking the Millennium Hotels website. There you’ll find the latest offers for their nationwide hotels, including some of the finest hotels Kensington, Glasgow and Cardiff have to offer.