Visiting a castle should always be near the top of your bucket list. These fortresses still carry their glory and when you step your foot in one, you will stop imagining how life was before and actually start feeling it, living it!

You can experience first-hand the life of kings who conquered many battles, the queens who stood by them, and the people who put their sweat, blood, and in some instances, lives, into constructing these outstanding fortresses that have stood the test of time.

In this article, we are going to put together 16 of the best castles around the world you can visit. The list also includes the best castles in Europe. But first, here’s a summary of the best castles in the world, with more info on each castle following below!

The Best Castles In The World Are:

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

This castle stands in the Bavaria Alps in Germany and it was in this place that Ludwig II spent his childhood. The castle attracts over 1.5 million every year making Neuschwanstein one of the most visited places in the world.

Best time to visit. You can visit this castle at any time of the year, be it when its peaks are covered by snow or gleaming-white due to the summer sun. Nevertheless, Neuschwanstein receives around 6,000 daily tourists so it may be best to avoid visiting during the peak months in the summer like July and August.

To beat the long waiting lines, try to arrive at the Ticketcenter Hohenschwangau as early as possible, even before it opens. Alternatively, you can get there any time after 3pm when there are small crowds.

Another useful tip is to plan for your Neuschwanstein Castle visit on weekdays or schedule your tour during the off-season. Additionally, if you want to treat yourself or family to a great experience during the end of the year’s festive seasons, the number of tourists to Neuschwanstein usually drops considerably between the months of November and April.

Interesting fact. Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Disney’s Magic Kingdom castle.

2. Karlštejn Castle

This fairy tale castle is located in Czechia (the Czech Republic) and was built by Emperor Charles IV in 1348AD.

Best time to visit. If you are planning to visit Karlstejn, there is no best time to visit throughout the year—it’s great all year round! The red roof architecture of Karlstejn Castle, with its lush hidden gardens, and the majestic winding River Vltava will constantly provide new charming perspectives every time you visit. Whether it is Spring, Winter, Autumn, or Summer, just pack your bags and get ready for a wonderful experience.

Interesting fact. After Germany took over the Czech Republic in 1939, Adolf Hitler spent the night in the Karstejn Castle “proudly surveying his new possessions.”

3. Pena Palace

Pena Palace is located in Sao Pedro de Penaferrim, Sintra, Portugal. It is nestled on top of the Sintra Mountains overlooking the city of Sintra. This Portuguese gothic castle constitutes one of the major modern day’s expressions of Romanticism.

Additionally, the castle is still used by the country’s president for state occasions. Apart from being a Portuguese national heritage, the palace is also one the country’s Seven Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit. The medieval village that surrounds Pena Palace makes it one of the best castles you can visit. But like any astounding place on earth, it’s better before the large crowds arrive. If you want to enjoy your tour best, consider arriving at Pena Palace around 9am to beat the morning crowd or late afternoon around 5pm when the crowd grows thin. This will work especially well if your hotel is in Sintra. And why not? Sintra has one of the most prestigious hotels in Portugal called The Tivoli Hotel Seteais Palace.

Interesting fact. If you are in Lisbon on a clear day, you can actually see Pena Palace.

4. Malbork Castle

Take a trip to Central Europe and you will find one of the best castles in Europe. Malbork Castle is also popularly known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order, and this 13^th Century Teutonic palace is specifically located in Malbork town of Poland. It was famously enlarged and enhanced when the Grand Master seat was moved from Venice to here. Today, it occupies a staggering 21 hectares, making it the world largest castle by land area.

Best time to visit. Malbork Castle is open to the public all year long, from 9am to 8pm. The area around the Castle features crystal clear lakes and rivers, making Spring to early Autumn the best time to visit.

Interesting fact. Malbork Castle is the world’s largest castle built in brick and the largest brick structure in the world. The castle was originally called Marienburg, in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Jesus’ mother.

5. Hohenzollern Castle

This castle is located in the southernmost city of Deutschland and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany.

Best time to visit. If you are planning on visiting Hohenzollern Castle, do so between May and September when the days are longer.

Interesting fact. The castle was completely destroyed by Swabian rulers in 1423 but was built again in 1454. This time bigger than before.

6. Eltz Castle

Another one of Germany’s medieval castles. This 12^th Century castle was built above a 70m tall hill surrounded on three of its sides by the Elzbach River in Wierschem, Germany.

Best time to visit. Eltz Castle can be best explored when you arrive early in the morning, between 9.30 and 11.00 or late afternoon between 3.30 and 5.30. Tours of the castle normally begin every 15 minutes.

Interesting fact. Despite Germany being hit heavily during the two world wars, Eltz Castle was never touched and is one of the best-preserved castles in Germany.

7. Eilean Donan Castle

This is one of the castles you can visit in Britain. It is located on Eilean Donan Island in Scotland. If you are Scottish, you have probably seen it on shortbread tins and calendars!

Best time to visit. Just like many of the world’s best castles, the best time to visit Eilean Castle is very early in the morning and late in the afternoon. The castle has varying opening and closing hours so check the official site for up to date info.

Interesting fact. Eilean Castle is currently owned by the Macrae family, the Highland Scottish clan. Many people are familiar with the castle from seeing it in movies, as it has been featured in close to ten movies.

8. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in the world. It is located in Berkshire, England, and this castle is a royal residence of the British royal family.

Best time to visit. Unlike other castles in this list, Windsor castle has limited public access, but you can still visit. If you want to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, arrive at the place at 11.30 or earlier. There is no Changing of the Guard on the Lord’s day (the Guards deserve a day off to tour the castle too!)

Interesting fact. Windsor Castle is the longest-occupied palace in the world.

9. Oberhofen Castle

This castle is located on the shores of Lake Thun in Switzerland, was built around the 13^th Century, and is the home of a living museum.

Best time to visit. The castle is only open between May and October, from Tuesday to Sunday from 11am-5pm. In July and August, the castle closes at 6pm.

Interesting fact. The castle features a tower that is actually in the lake!

10. Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle is located in the city of Schwerin, Germany and has been the home of the dukes and grand dukes of Mecklenburg. With so many German castles making this list we’d not be surprised if you began to wonder which country has the most castles in the world. (Surprisingly the answer is actually Wales, not Germany!)

Best time to visit. The castle is open from March to November between Tuesday and Sunday. There are usually no large crowds in Schwerin Castle so you can visit any time of the day or year and enjoy it without the fuss!

Interesting fact. Schwerin Castle can be seen in the movie Kingsman: The Golden Circle.

11. Castello Scaligero

The only Italian castle to make this list of the best castles around the world, it’s nonetheless fully deserving of its place. Located in the Lombardy region of Northwest Italy, Castello Scaligero is one of the best preserved of Italy’s thousands of castles.

Owned by the noble Scaligeri family, the Lords of Verona, this castle was built in the 13^th Century. Strikingly beautiful as it is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking Lake Garda, this castle has had a rich and full history having been in the hands of the Italians, French and Austrians at various points.

There is a lot to learn about the history of this castle and region by visiting here. And, what’s even better, making your way to the top of the tower will reward you with an exquisite view of Lake Garda.

Best time to visit. Since it can still be a bit wet and cold here even as late as April, we’d recommend visiting Castello Scaligero from May to September.

Interesting fact. In 1924 tombstones were discovered with Latin markings to the pagan goddess Iside, indicating that the ancient Etruscans were perhaps the first inhabitants of the area surrounding Lake Garda.

12. Swallow’s Nest Castle

This castle is located in Gaspra, Ukraine. Built between 1911 and 1912, Swallow’s Nest castle hangs on top of Aurora Cliff, 40-meters high.

Best time to visit. Swallow’s is open between 9am-7pm from May to October and 9am-4pm from November to April. The castle is closed on Mondays.

Interesting fact. The Swallow’s Nest castle was first built by a wounded general who visited Crimea while seeking treatment after being given the land by the empire.

13. Balmoral Castle

Another Scottish castle making the list. Balmoral Castle is situated in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

Best time to visit. The castle is not usually crowded so if you are planning for a visit, it opens at 10am and closes at 5pm.

Interesting fact. Did you know that Balmoral Castle is royal property and that Queen Victoria personally laid the castle’s foundation stone back in September 1853? Now you know.

14. Chateau de Pierrefonds

This medieval structure is situated in the County of Valois, France and it was built in 1328AD.

Best time to visit. The castle is open daily from 9.30am-6pm between May and August, and 10am-1pm between September to April. It is closed on Mondays.

Interesting fact. The entrance to Chateau de Pierrefonds is located in the weakest part of the wall.

15. Chateau de Chambord

This castle is located in Chambord, Loir-et-Cher, France. It was built in 1519 and is one of the world’s most popular chateaux.

Best time to visit. Planning for a tour of Chateau de Chambord? It is open from 10am-5pm from October to March. The castle opens every day except for Christmas and January 1^st.

Interesting fact. There are over 400 rooms in the Chateau de Chambord, and 84 staircases.

16. Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle is a half hour walk away from Neuschwanstein Castle (the 1^st castle mentioned on this list). Built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria in the 19^th Century, this is where King Ludwig II of Bavaria stayed as a child.

Best time to visit. The castle is open from 10am-4pm during Winter and 9am-6pm during Summer, but is closed on December 24^th and January 1^st. Visit during the Summer for the best odds for a fantastic day, but seeing it in the snow around December-March would also be a great choice!

Interesting fact. The castle was first mentioned in 1397 under the name of “Schwanstein”, meaning that at some point in the 19^th Century it switched its name with Neuschwanstein Castle.

What do you think is the best castle in the world? Did it make the cut in our list? Did we miss it out? Leave a comment below.

Suggested next reading: 6 Of The Best Castles To Visit In England That Have Incredible History

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Don’t worry, we feel the same way about you guys!

Even for those of us who have continental Europe on our doorsteps, there’s so much to discover that we all end up feeling the same way. Europe is littered with spots that have all the charm of the major destinations but without the major crowds and inflated prices.

So, which countries are best to visit in Europe? If you want to get a bit off-the-beaten-path and get a little more bang for your buck then here are the 6 most underrated European countries to visit!

The Most Underrated European Countries To Visit Are:

Let’s now discuss each of these underrated countries in Europe to visit!

1. Slovenia

Nestled between Italy, Austria and Croatia, little Slovenia has all the charm of its bigger brothers but at a fraction of the cost. Ljubljana, the capital, boasts an imposing castle, a charming Old Town, and a scenic river, all of which make it an ideal city to explore on foot.

The coastal town of Piran is another tourist draw, thanks to its stunning architecture and laid-back feel. It’s everything you’d want from Venice or Dubrovnik, but without the overcrowding and expense. The reef just off-shore is also an excellent place to spot seahorses if you’re lucky.

Away from the towns, Slovenia is a mountain country with stunning alpine landscapes in abundance. The fossils, karsts and canyons of Skocjan and Postojna caves should definitely be on your list if you’re heading here, as should a trip to Vintgar Gorge.

For many, though, the country’s most photogenic spot is undoubtedly Lake Bled. A castle on a hilltop; a church on an island; the whole thing surrounded by forests and mountains; it’s the archetypal European fairy-tale landscape.

2. Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina has endured some difficult times in the recent past, but its fascinating history and beautiful scenery mean that its well-and-truly one of the most interesting places to visit in Europe.

The bullet marks still riddling the buildings in Sarajevo’s “Sniper Alley”—once the most dangerous street in the world—are haunting reminders of the conflict that left this city besieged for almost four years. The site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination, the event that triggered World War I, can also be found here. It’s well worth hiring a local guide, therefore, to understand the capital’s turbulent past.

But Bosnia and Herzegovina is a defiant country. Bruised but not beaten, it has repaired much of the damage that was done during the war and looks forward to a bright future. There is perhaps no better example of this than the bridge at Mostar. Destroyed by Croatian armed forces in 1993, the bridge has been rebuilt and is once again the centerpiece of this charming town. In the summer the city’s young people jump joyfully from the bridge into the river below.

3. Albania

It’s probably fair to say that Albania might not have always received the best press in the past. Ask most people what they imagine when they think of the country and they’ll picture a drab, grey sort of place.

However, take a walk through the city streets of Tirana and you’ll see that nothing could be further from the truth. The vibrant paintwork that now adorns the capital’s offices and apartments is not merely cosmetic, it is symbolic. These colorful streets show the world that Albania is opening up and is eager to show off its many charms.

Among these are Albania’s many beautiful beaches, the best of which can be found near the town of Dhermi. Albania has striking landscapes, too. The “blue hole”, a natural spring in Albania’s Delvine District, is one picture-perfect example, as are the hot springs at Benja. The ancient town of Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfect introduction to Albania’s old-world charm.

Of course, there are plenty of reminders Albania’s crippling Communist regime scattered around the country, too. The pyramid dedicated to Head of State, Enver Hoxha, in Tirana, may have fallen into disrepair but thankfully the building itself still stands. It’s now possible to walk up the sides of the building for views out over Tirana.

4. Montenegro

Montenegro is an underrated European country brimming with incredible scenery and charming old towns, and all hemmed in between the mountains and the sea.

Perhaps the country’s defining geological feature is the Tara Canyon, a river gorge so deep it is surpassed only by the Grand Canyon. The best way to appreciate the canyon is undoubtedly by organizing a rafting tour over the river rapids, but if all that sounds a bit too energetic, make for Djurdjevica Bridge, a vantage point with breath-taking views along the canyon.

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor, with its Romanesque churches and winding avenues, is perhaps the most picturesque Old Town in Montenegro. The coastal settlement of Budva runs it a close second, however, and both should be right at the top of your itinerary.

If a trip to the beach is on the agenda then head to Sveti Stefan, a medieval town turned luxury resort on a tiny island in the Adriatic.

5. Romania

Everyone knows Europe has a bunch of awesome castles, but perhaps not that many know some of the best can be found in Romania.

Peles Castle, the former Royal Residence, is so picturesque it’s bordering on kitsch. Corvin Castle is a grand mammoth of a thing. The most famous, Bran Castle, is where Vlad the Impaler was once imprisoned and served as the inspiration for Count Dracula’s dwelling-place in the Bram Stoker novel.

Actually, it turns out neither of these legends might really be true, but they do lend a luster of mystique to a castle already impressive enough in its own right. All of the places to see in Europe if you’re a castle nerd, Romania must top that list!

In fact, Romania is pretty much a dream for lovers of architecture, too. The Constanta Casino is surely one of the world’s most opulent abandoned buildings; the gigantic Presidential Palace in Bucharest will have you straining your neck to take it all in; the tottering Densus Church is one of the oldest and most quaint in all Europe.

When you throw in a sci-fi theme park in the depths of a salt mine and the incredibly low cost of living, it’s hard to imagine why Romania remains so much under the radar.

6. Kaliningrad (Russia)

Kaliningrad is not a country in its own right but rather a tiny Russian exclave on the Baltic Sea. However, for most of its history it was part of Poland and Germany, and used to be known as Königsberg before being annexed to Russia, after World War II.

Its fascinating mix of Western and Eastern Europe architectural styles and cultural practices make it one of those must see places in Europe before you die.

Königsberg Cathedral is at the heart of public life here and had to be completely rebuilt in the 1990s after being badly damaged during World War II. Immanuel Kant, the city’s most famous inhabitant is buried in a small tomb here, so if Groundwork on the Metaphysic of Morals is your favorite bed-time read then you need to:

1. Visit.
2. Find better ways to relax!

The Curonian Spit, with its famous “dancing trees”, might help you do just that.

So that’s our list of the most underrated European countries, but it’s not definitive—we haven’t mentioned Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Macedonia or Armenia. In fact, there’s a host of countries that could easily have made our list, so if you have any recommendations then do let us know in the comments.

Suggested next reading: 15 Astonishing Mountain Towns In Europe Worth Visiting

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Wondering how many castles in Scotland there are? Estimates range from 2,000-4,000, but here are 12 of the best Scottish castles!

The 12 Best Castles To Visit In Scotland Are:

1. Slains Castle
2. Dunnottar Castle
3. Edinburgh Castle
4. Dunrobin Castle
5. Fyvie Castle
6. Kilchurn Castle
7. Castle Fraser
8. Blackness Castle
9. Duart Castle
10. Stirling Castle
11. Eilean Donan Castle
12. Castle Stalker

1. Slains Castle

Situated in Cruden Bay, the castle remains of Slains Castle are available to visit all year round. As it sits on a clifftop, the castle makes for picturesque views and a lovely walk.

There is no fee to see the castle, and dogs are welcome (just clean up after them and keep them on a lead as there are steep cliffs nearby).

In terms of accessibility, there is a car park in Cruden Bay that allows you a walk to the castle, or you can take your car up to the castle—although I don’t recommend this as there is limited space.

2. Dunnottar Castle

TripAdvisor’s second-best castle in Scotland for 2017, Dunnottar Castle sits about 3 km south of the harbor town Stonehaven. Often described as a ruined medieval fortress, the castle is on a rocky headland and, although there is a small fee to get on the grounds, it is 100% worth it.

Once again, dogs are welcome, but there are no bins on the castle grounds, so bring bags for poops. There is a small car park, but it is recommended that you park your car in Stonehaven and walk due to limited space.

3. Edinburgh Castle

If one was to inquire about famous Scottish castles, then Edinburgh Castle should immediately be mentioned. This castle remains TripAdvisor’s best castle to visit in Scotland for 2017.

It’s fairly central in Edinburgh and you can explore the grounds with guided tours or by yourself. Edinburgh Castle is great because they have what is basically a museum within the castle to teach you about the history of the castle and Edinburgh. This is one of the castles that actually has an inbuilt restaurant as well. Great for kids and adults alike.

There is no parking at the castle, so it would be worth finding a nearby parking space before heading there.

4. Dunrobin Castle

A stately home based in Sutherland, it’s been the home to Earls and Dukes of Sutherland since the 13^th Century, making it Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited home, so there is a lot of history surrounding the home. The castle itself resembles a French Chateau boasting spires and turrets.

You can visit all the inside of the castle, the tea room, shop and the gardens. The entry prices to the castle includes a Falconry display which is so worth the price.

5. Fyvie Castle

Based in Fyvie, near Turriff, Fyvie Castle is famous for being a bit spooky and even appeared on Most Haunted Season 6.

One of the famous stories is that, back in 1920, when the castle was being renovated, the skeletal remains of a woman were found behind one of the bedroom walls. On that very day the castles residents started to be plagued by strange noises and unexplained happenings. After this, the Laird of the castle put the skeleton back, and the haunting ceased.

The castle is open to the public over the summer months and has ample parking for guests.

6. Kilchurn Castle

A ruined structure on a rocky peninsula in Argyll and Bute. Kilchurn castle opens to the public between April 1 to September 30 between 9:30am – 5:30pm every day. It’s free to visit and has a lot of interesting history based around it due to it originally being built in the 1400’s.

It was a fortress, a residence, and a garrison stronghold and currently contains the oldest surviving barracks on the British mainland. It’s recommended that you wear strong footwear when visiting due to the terrain and sorry, but no dogs are allowed.

7. Castle Fraser

One of the largest tower houses in Scotland, Castle Fraser lies 4 miles north of Dunecht and only 16 miles outside of Aberdeen. Castle Fraser offers a wide range of things to do including guided tours, nature spotting, walks and play areas for children and even has a café to grab a drink or bite to eat.

There is parking available and dogs are welcome, although it is requested that they are kept on leads in certain areas of the grounds. This is one of the rare castles to visit in Scotland that can accommodate disabled parking and has parts of the castle that are wheelchair accessible.

8. Blackness Castle

Based near the village of Blackness in Linlithgow, Blackness Castle is a 15^th Century castle that was once a prison and, at one point, a garrison fortress. Built by one of the most powerful families, The Crichtons, it’s often referred to as “the ship that never sailed” due to its stone ship appearance.

Unfortunately, the castle isn’t wheelchair friendly due to its location. The castle has been used in many TV shows and films, including “Ivanhoe”, “Doomsday”, and “Outlander”.

9. Duart Castle

In The Isle Of Mull sits Duart Castle, it dates back to the 13^th Century and is the seat of Clan MacLean. When in the castle you can find an exhibition dedicated to the history of the Chiefs of the Clan MacLean through the ages.

This castle has also starred in many TV shows and films including “Entrapment”, “When Eight Bells Toll”, and “I Know Where I’m Going”. Duart Castle even offers up the opportunity to have a wedding there, which just sounds like an absolute fairytale.

10. Stirling Castle

Located in Stirling, this is one of the largest and most important castles to visit in Scotland, both architecturally and historically. A lot of the main buildings in the castle date back to the 15^th and 16^th Centuries, but there are also a few structures left from the 14^th Century. There have been at least 8 sieges of Stirling Castle, many during the wars of Scottish Independence.

There is parking at Stirling castle, with a limited number of disabled spaces available.

11. Eilean Donan Castle

One of the most picture postcard castles to visit in Scotland, this fully restored 13^th Century castle is situated on an island near Dornie where three lochs meet and is surrounded by some majestic and gorgeous scenery. It has featured in many films, including “Highlander”, “James Bond – The World Is Not Enough”, and “Bonnie Prince Charlie”.

When there you can take advantage of the visitor center which includes a coffee shop and gift shop.

The castle provides ample parking, but unfortunately, they don’t have wheelchair access to the castle.

12. Castle Stalker

Known to Monty Python fans as the “Castle of Aaaaarrrrrrggghhh”, Castle Stalker is four-story keep on Loch Laich about 1.5 miles away from Appin in the Northwest of Scotland.

Picturesque and beautiful, this castle was built by Sir John Stewart sometime in the middle of the 15^th Century. More about its intriguing history can be found here.

But it was only when featuring in 1975s “Monty Python’ and the Holy Grail” that Castle Stalker became so well-known and recognizable.

There are some excellent tours of Castle Stalker that are highly recommended (check available dates here). Cost is £20 for adults and £10 for children 16 and under. A virtual tour can also be done here.

Suggested next reading: 8 Magical Places You Need To See In Scotland or Malbork Castle In Poland: The Largest Castle In The World

The post 12 Best Castles To Visit In Scotland That Ooze History appeared first on Modern Trekker.

A lot of these have become beloved attractions for tourists and locals allowing the public to visit and learn about the rich history. Hundreds of castles still stand in England, but here are the best castles to visit in England:

1. Corfe Castle

Standing on a natural hill in Dorset guarding the main route through the Purbeck Hills you will find Corfe Castle.

It’s had quite a colorful history too; it’s thought that the original castle buildings would have been built with wood, it’s in this version of the castle that King Edward was murdered by his step-mother in 979 so that her son, Ethelred the Unready could become king.

It wasn’t upgraded to stone until the latter half of the 11^th Century by William the Conqueror. For six hundred years, after it was converted to stone, it was used as a royal fortress for the monarchs of England.

Around 1572 the castle was sold by Queen Elizabeth I to Sir Christopher Hatton, but was later bought by Sir John Bankes, the Lord Chief Justice at the time, in 1635 to use as a private residence. It remained in possession of the Bankes family until 1982 when Mr H.J.R Bankes signed it over to be part of the Kingston Lacy and Corfe Castle Estate with the National Trust.  

2. Leeds Castle

Despite its name, this castle is actually situated in Kent, just 5 miles Southeast of Maidstone. There has been a castle on the site since 1086, with the first stone castle being built by a Norman Baron during the reign of William the Conqueror’s son Henry I in 1119.

King Edward I owned the castle in the 13^th Century and it became a favorite residence of his, and in the 16^th Century, Henry VIII used it as a dwelling for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

The current castle’s remains date mostly from the 19^th Century and it has been open to the public since 1976. There is a lot of history to discover when you visit the castle and they often host events there, so keep an eye out for anything fun. When you’re there you can also visit the maze, which is one of Kent’s most famous, and see falconry on the grounds.

3. Warkworth Castle

A ruined medieval building in Warkworth. The date of the castle’s foundations remain unknown, but it’s thought that there was probably a residence on the foundation that belonged to the Anglo-Saxon Earls of Northumbria before the Norman Conquest of 1066.

However, the first written record of the castle didn’t occur until around 1157 in a charter where Henry II granted the castle and manor to Roger Fitz Eustace. From the late 13^th Century, Warkworth Castle and others similar castles played an important role in the war between England and Scotland, this means that royal funds were put into the upkeep of the castle. Despite the defenses of the castle improving in 1323, it was besieged by the Scots in 1327.

In 1332 the castle was passed to Henry Percy, 2^nd Lord Percy, as granted by Edward III. It stayed property of the Percy’s until the 1600’s when the 9^th Earl, Henry Percy, was arrested and imprisoned for his involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

It was declared a scheduled ancient monument in 1915. This is definitely one of the more historically-rich castles to visit in England!

4. Warwick Castle

Another medieval building, Warwick Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, and it was rebuilt in stone in the 12^th Century.

It was used as a stronghold until it was granted to Sir Fulke Greville by James I in 1604, he converted it into a country house and it stayed in his family until 1978 when the Tussauds group bought it over.

Now, Merlin Entertainments operates in the castle on a renewable lease. This makes it great for kids as they often run events depicting the history of the castle in interactive ways, including war reenactments, jousting etc. This is probably the most commercialized of all the castles to visit in England, but it is still worth a visit—especially with kids.

5. Bodiam Castle

A 14^th Century moated castle in East Sussex, built by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge in 1385 with the permission of Richard II. It was built to defend the area against the French invasion during the Hundred Years War.

The castle has no keep, but does have various chambers built around the outer defensive. The Dalyngrigge family owned the castle until their line became extinct and was then passed by marriage on to the Lewknor family.

During The War of The Roses there were orders from Richard III to besiege the castle, it’s unrecorded whether it all went ahead, but it’s thought that the castle was surrendered with little confrontation.

The Lewknors took back ownership of the castle until at least the 16^th Century because, by 1641, it was in the possession of Lord Thanet, but he later sold it due to debts and it was in ruins, the castle was partially restored when it was sold to George Cubitt and even more so when Lord Curzon took it over.

It has belonged to The National Trust since 1925. 

6. Dover Castle

Another medieval castle in Dover, Kent and boasts being the largest of all castles to visit in England.

Often called the “key to England” due to its defensive significance throughout history. It’s thought that the grounds were originally fortified with earthworks during the Iron age due to the weird patterns of the earthworks which isn’t a perfect fit for a castle.

King Henry II began building the present castle in the 1180s and, over 800 years, all of its buildings and defenses were adapted to fit the needs of the times in terms of weapons and warfare.

In the 18^th Century, England was facing the threat of invasion from France so they built a network of tunnels in Dover Castle to house the huge number of troops needed to man the castle. These tunnels were used in WWII, hosting a command center that controlled Navy Operations in the Channel, it was here that Admiral Bertram Ramsay organized the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk.

They were also used during the Cold War as a secret location of one of Britain’s Regional Seats of Government.

Suggested next reading: 11 Of The Best Castles To Visit In Scotland That Simply Ooze History or Malbork Castle In Poland: The Largest Castle In The World

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What distinguished this northern Polish town—and what still distinguishes it today—was the castle these knights built near it. Castle Marienburg, as it was called then, was named in honor of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and was built to last.

Over the years it housed Polish royalty and, for a brief time, the Swedes following their occupation of parts of Poland. The castle also suffered heavy damage during World War II. Repairs begin in the 20^th Century and were completed as recently as 2016.

Despite this hectic 800 year history, Malbork Castle in Poland still stands proud as the largest castle in the world and, looking better than it has done in years after being honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it certainly has become a must-see for any explorer to Poland.

Is It Really The Largest Castle In The World?

It turns out there has been a debate for years on what actually contributes to the size of a castle. For example, do you include the castle grounds or just the interior of the castle? Do later extensions count or should one only consider the earliest and original construction?

Malbork Castle in Poland is the largest castle in terms of the land area that it covers (143,591 square meters!) When the castle was first completed 600 years ago, it was also the largest brick building in the world—a title it no longer holds.

Nonetheless, the general consensus is that it is safe to say Malbork Castle is the largest castle in the world!

You Should Visit Because:

• It’s the largest castle in the world
• It has incredible history contained within its walls
• It’s not too expensive (see below)
• It’s easy to get to as a day trip from Gdańsk or other nearby areas

How To Get There:

Most visitors will be coming from Gdańsk, a port city 60 kilometers to the North. Don’t bother with an organized tour, save your cash by simply taking the train yourself. A one-way ticket will cost around 12zł (about $3.30 USD / £2.50 GBP).

If you’re traveling on an express train, get off at Malbork’s main train station. If you’re traveling on a local train then get off at Malbork Kałdowo (it’s only a 15-minute walk to the castle from here).

The Best Time To Visit Malbork Castle In Poland:

During the summer season (1^st May – 30^th September) the castle is open 9am – 7pm, and during the winter season (1^st October – 30^th April) the castle is open 10am – 3pm. Opening hours can occasionally vary meaning it is better to check their website before you go.

Visiting the castle later on in the day (5:15pm – 6:15pm during the summer season, and 1:15pm – 2:00pm during winter) will mean you can score cheaper tickets when you arrive. But, of course, this will mean you have less time to explore the castle. We recommend saving 2 hours at the very least to explore it.

Cost

Ticket prices can vary and depends on the offering. As of recently, it cost 7zł for an exterior viewing, and can cost up to 39.50zł for a full viewing—interior and exterior. (Note: ticket prices are cheaper if you visit later on in the day or during the winter season).

Please also note that only exterior viewing tickets are available on Mondays and other significant days throughout the year because, on these days, the castle interior is closed.

Other Info

1. The ticket price includes audio guides. These come highly recommended since they use a smart GPS-tracking and provide lots of great information.  You can swap in your own headphones if you don’t like the ones provided.

2. The castle has three sections. The 3^rd section takes the longest to see and the 2^nd section the least.

3. So you can see it for yourself, below is a video of Malbork Castle in Poland (hint: start from 1:20!)

Being the #1 thing to do in Malbork according to TripAdvisor, we’re sure you’ll enjoy your visit to Malbork Castle in Poland. Let us know how you get on in the comments section below!

Suggested next reading: 11 Of The Best Castles To Visit In Scotland That Simply Ooze History

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