Prepare to feast your eyes on a stunning assemblage of 71 exquisite English castles, manor houses, and palaces. Despite its relatively small size, England boasts an impressive array of architectural treasures that will leave you in awe.
To be honest, I would gladly choose any of these majestic structures as my own abode, except for the ruins, of course. The maintenance costs might be a tad overwhelming, but the sheer experience of living in one of these breathtaking edifices would be unparalleled.
Let’s delve into the details of some notable castles and manor houses:
1. Alden Biesen Castle
Venture to the idyllic village of Rijkhoven in the Bilzen municipality, Limburg province, Belgium, and behold the Alden Biesen Castle. Constructed by the Teutonic Order’s valiant knights in the 11th century, the castle underwent transformations between the 16th and 18th centuries, serving as the headquarters of a Teutonic Order province. Tragically, the castle was engulfed in flames in March 1971. Fortunately, it was restored by the Belgian government and now stands proudly as a cultural and conference center, open to the public.
Key details about Alden Biesen Castle:
Location: Limburg, Belgium
Construction period: 11th century
Original builders: Knights of the Teutonic Order
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current purpose: Open to the public, serves as a cultural and conference center
Current owner: Belgian state government
2. Arenberg Castle
Nestled near Leuven, Belgium, the Kasteel van Arenberg once belonged to the lords of Heverlee until the 15th century when the Croÿ family of Picardy acquired the property after the Heverlee family’s bankruptcy. The medieval castle was demolished by Antoine I de Croÿ and replaced with a splendid new structure completed by his grandson, William de Croÿ, in the 16th century. After the last Duke Charles III of Croy’s demise, the château came into the possession of the Arenberg family until the First World War. Subsequently, it became Belgian government property and now welcomes visitors.
Key details about Arenberg Castle:
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Construction period: 12th century
Original builders: Lords of Heverlee
Architectural style: Medieval, Renaissance, Gothic, Neo-gothic
Current purpose: Open to the public
Current owner: Belgian government
3. Beersel Castle
In the early 14th century, Godfrey of Hellebeek erected Beersel Castle as a defensive stronghold for Brussels. This impressive structure, located in the Flemish Brabant town of Beersel, endured damage during the Brabant succession war. Despite subsequent destruction during the rebellion against Maximilian of Austria, the castle was restored after the conflict. Today, it is owned by the Royal Association of Historic Residences and Gardens in Belgium, delighting visitors with its rich history.
Key details about Beersel Castle:
Location: Beersel, Flemish Brabant, Belgium
Construction period: 14th century
Original builder: Godfrey of Hellebeek
Architectural style: Neo-gothic
Current purpose: Open to the public
Current owner: Royal Association of Historic Residences and Gardens in Belgium
4. Château de Belœil
Château de Belœil, known as Beloeil Castle, entered the possession of the Ligne family in 1394. Situated in the municipality of Belœil, Hainaut province, Belgium, it has served as the residence of the Prince de Ligne since the 14th century. Although the Ligne family retains ownership, the castle is open to the public, allowing visitors to bask in its grandeur.
Key details about Beloeil Castle:
Location: Belœil, Hainaut, Belgium
Construction period: 14th century
Original builders: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval, Baroque
Current purpose: Open to the public
Current owner: Ligne family
5. Borluut Castle
Deep within the village of Saint-Denis-Westrem, Belgium, stands Borluut Castle, first documented in the Sint-Pieters loan book in 1411. The castle remained in the hands of the Borluut family until 1744 when it was sold to the family of Count Balthazar Borluut d’Hoogstraete. Architect Joseph Van Damme transformed it into a summer residence. Eventually, the castle passed into the possession of the municipality of Sint-Denijs-Westrem, which later became part of the city of Ghent. Today, the castle welcomes the public to explore its exquisite architecture.
Key details about Borluut Castle:
Location: Saint-Denis-Westrem, Ghent, Belgium
Construction period: 15th century
Original builders: Unknown
Architectural style: Neo-classical
Current purpose: Open to the public
Current owner: City of Ghent, Belgium
6. Bornem Castle
Once a stronghold against Viking invasions, Bornem Castle, situated in Bornem, Antwerp province, Belgium, now stands as a splendid country house. Originally built in the 10th century, it was reconstructed in the 16th century by Pedro Coloma, the 3rd Baron of Bornhem and lord of Bobadilla. Later, the Marnix de Sainte-Aldegonde family acquired the castle, and in the late 19th century, architect Henri Beyaert oversaw its renovation. Today, it serves as a museum, welcoming the public to explore its wonders under the ownership of John de Marnix de Sainte-Aldegonde, the 14th Earl of Bornem.
Key details about Bornem Castle:
Location: Bornem, Antwerp, Belgium
Construction period: 10th century
Original builders: Unknown / Renovated by architect Henri Beyaert
Architectural style: Renaissance revival
Current purpose: Museum, open to the public
Current owner: House of Marnix de Sainte-Aldegonde
7. Castle de la Faille
Castle de la Faille, an enchanting Neo-gothic masterpiece, graces the city of Bruges, Belgium. It emerged in the 19th century through the collaborative efforts of Charles De Wulf and florist Leon De Wulf, a prominent member of the Bruges municipal executive board. Eventually, the castle came under the ownership of the city of Bruges, where it currently stands as a protected monument.
Key details about Castle de la Faille:
Location: Bruges, Belgium
Construction period: 19th century
Original builders: Charles De Wulf / Leon De Wulf
Architectural style: Neo-gothic
Current purpose: Protected monument
Current owner: Municipality of Bruges, Belgium
8. Castle Gravensteen
Dutch for “castle of the count,” Castle Gravensteen emerges majestically in Ghent, Belgium. Originally constructed as a fortified medieval bastion in the 9th century, the castle underwent a rebuild in the 12th century by Count Philip of Alsace, situated in the same spot as its predecessor. After serving as the seat of the Counts of Flanders, the castle was
abandoned in the 14th century. In the 19th century, the city of Ghent acquired the property and embarked on a renovation and restoration project, returning the castle to its former glory. Today, Castle Gravensteen stands as a prominent tourist attraction, captivating visitors with its historical significance.
Key details about Castle Gravensteen:
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Construction period: 12th century
Original builder: Philip of Alsace
Architectural style: Medieval, Gothic, Renaissance
Current purpose: Tourist site
Current owner: City of Ghent, Belgium
9. Harzé Castle
Harzé Castle, situated in Aywaille, Liège province, Belgium, traces its origins back to the 14th century. Built as a fortress by the Clermont family, it passed through the hands of various owners over the centuries. During World War II, the castle served as the headquarters of the US 18th Airborne Corps under the command of Major General Matthew B. Ridgway during the Battle of the Bulge. Today, the castle has been transformed into a hotel, restaurant, conference center, and wedding venue, offering guests a taste of its rich history.
Key details about Harzé Castle:
Location: Aywaille, Liège, Belgium
Construction period: 14th century
Original builder: Clermont family
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current purpose: Hotel and Restaurant
Current owner: Private owner
10. Castle of Durbuy
The history of the Castle of Durbuy stretches back to the 9th century when it was owned by John I, Count of Luxembourg and King of Bohemia. Over time, the castle faced destruction and was rebuilt in the 18th century when it was acquired by the d’Ursel family. Today, the castle remains in private hands and is not open to the public.
Key details about the Castle of Durbuy:
Location: Durbuy, Luxembourg, Belgium
Construction period: 9th century / Rebuilt in the 18th century
Original builder: Count of Luxembourg / King of Bohemia
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current purpose: Private property
Current owner: Private owner
11. Annevoie Castle
In the 18th century, Annevoie Castle emerged in the village of Annevoie-Rouillon, Anhée, Namur province, Belgium. It was commissioned by the Montpellier family and gained fame for its exquisite water gardens, the Jardins d’Annevoie, the only of its kind in Belgium. The Montpellier family occupied the castle until the year 2000 when it was sold to businessman Stephan Jourdain. Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination, partially owned by the Walloon Region.
Key details about Annevoie Castle:
Location: Annevoie-Rouillon, Anhée, Belgium
Construction period: 18th century
Original builder: Montpellier family
Architectural style: French Renaissance
Current purpose: Tourist site, open to the public
Current owner: Walloon Region
12. Groot-Bijgaarden Castle
Groot-Bijgaarden Castle, initially built for Almaric Bigard, the first lord of Bigard, dates back to the 12th century. Located in Groot-Bijgaarden, Dilbeek municipality, Flemish Brabant, Belgium, the castle has changed hands among 40 owners throughout its history. Today, it operates as a remarkable event venue, hosting special occasions and gatherings.
Key details about Groot-Bijgaarden Castle:
Location: Groot-Bijgaarden, Belgium
Construction period: 12th century
Original builder: Almaric Bigard
Architectural style: Flemish Renaissance
Current purpose: Event venue
Current owner: Private owner
13. Castle of Havré
Havré Castle, under the control of the counts of Flanders and Hainaut since the 11th century, traces its roots back to 1226. Although the castle that stands today was built on the remnants of a 12th-century feudal fortress, it witnessed a range of owners over the years. Since the early 20th century, the castle has been abandoned and remains the property of the Province of Hainaut.
Key details about the Castle of Havré:
Location: Hainaut, Belgium
Construction period: 12th century
Original builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval
Current purpose: Ruined castle
Current owner: Province of Hainaut
14. Ham-sur-Heure Castle
Ham-sur-Heure Castle, characterized by its Gothic style, graces the village of Ham-sur-Heure-Nalinnes, Hainaut province, Belgium. Its history can be traced back to the 13th century when it belonged to the Condé family. Later, it passed into the hands of the d’Enghien family in the 15th century. With the absence of heirs, the De Merode family acquired the property, followed by the descendants of Charles John d’Oultremont. Eventually, the castle was sold to the municipality of Ham-sur-Heure-Nalinnes, where it currently serves as the town hall.
Key details about Ham-sur-Heure Castle:
Location: Ham-sur-Heure-Nalinnes, Belgium
Construction period: 13th century
Original builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Gothic
Current purpose: Town hall
Current owner: Municipality of Ham-sur-Heure-Nalinnes
15. Jehay-Bodegnée Castle
Jehay Castle, also known as Jehay-Bodegnée Castle, graces the municipality of Amay in the province of Liège, Belgium. The castle we see today was built in the 12th century, although it is believed that a previous castle existed in the same location. Over time, it changed hands among several noble families and endured numerous damages. In 1999, the Province of Liège acquired the castle, transforming it into a national museum open to the public.
Key details about Jehay Castle:
Location: Liège, Belgium
Construction period: Unknown
Original builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Gothic, Gothic revival
Current purpose: National museum
Current owner: Province of Liège
16. Castle of the Dukes of Brabant
The Castle of the Dukes of Brabant, situated in Turnhout, Belgium, began its existence as a hunting lodge for the first duke of Brabant in the 12th century. It was later transformed into a court of pleasure by Mary of Hungary, who served as the governors of the Netherlands at that time. In the early 20th century, the castle was purchased by the county government and underwent a neo-baroque restoration under the guidance of Jules Taeymans. Presently, the castle stands as a national monument and serves as a court of justice.
Key details about the Castle of the Dukes of Brabant:
Location: Turnhout, Belgium
Construction period: 12th century / Reconstructed in the 20th century
Original builder: First duke of Brabant / Reconstructed by Jules Taeymans
Architectural style: Medieval castle, Neo-baroque
Current purpose: National monument, Court of Justice
Current owner: Government of Belgium
17. Chateau de La Hulpe
The Chateau de La Hulpe, also known as Solvay Castle, is nestled in the municipality of La Hulpe, Walloon Brabant, Belgium. Constructed in the 19th century, it showcases the Flemish Neo-renaissance style, with architects Jean-François Coppens and Jean-Jacques Arveuf-Fransquin at the helm, working for Marquis Maximilien de Béthune. Ernest Solvay acquired the castle during the late 19th century, renaming it Solvay Castle. Today, it is owned by the government of Wallonia and open to the public, recognized as an “Exceptional Heritage Site in Wallonia.”
Key details about Chateau de La Hulpe:
Location: Walloon Brabant, Belgium
Construction period: 19th century
Original builders: Jean-François Coppens, Jean-Jacques Arveuf-Fransquin for Marquis Maximilien de Béthune
Architectural style: Flemish Neo-renaissance
Current purpose: Open to the public, Exceptional Heritage Site in Wallonia
Current owner: Regional government of Wallonia
18. Chateau Freÿr
Castle Freÿr, originally a medieval moated donjon or fortified farmhouse, can be found in Hastière, Belgium. Its history dates back to the 11th or 12th century. Initially granted as a fief to Jean de Rochefort Orjol by the Count of Namur in 1378, the original structure fell victim to French destruction during wars against Emperor Charles V in 1554. However, it was rebuilt in subsequent years, showcasing Renaissance Mosane style. The castle’s magnificent gardens were added in 1760 by Canon Guillaume de Beaufort-Spontin, following the designs of André Le Nôtre. While the castle’s garden is open to the public, the castle itself remains the residence of the descendants of the Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin, who became its lords in the 18th century.
Key details about Chateau Freÿr:
Location: Hastière, Belgium
Construction period: 14th century
Original builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval, Renaissance Mosane, French Renaissance
Current purpose: Open to the public (gardens), House of the Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin (residence)
Current owner: Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin
19. Vianden Castle
Vianden Castle, situated in Vianden, Luxembourg, is one of the largest fortified castles west of the Rhine. Built in the Romanesque style in the 11th century, it underwent additions and transformations in Gothic style over the years. In the 17th century, a Renaissance-style mansion was integrated after the castle fell into ruins. Subsequently, it was fully restored. Today, Vianden Castle opens its doors to the public, offering guided tours that showcase its captivating history.
Key details about Vianden Castle:
Location: Vianden, Luxembourg, Belgium
Construction period: 11th century
Original builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance
Current purpose: Open to the public, Tourist site
Current owner: Government of Belgium
20. Crupet Castle
Crupet Castle, also known as Carondelet Castle, originated as a medieval moated donjon or fortified farmhouse in the 11th or 12th century. It is situated in the village of Crupet, now part of the municipality of Assesse, Namur province, Belgium. During the 16th century, it was transformed into a Renaissance-style castle farm. Currently, the castle remains in private ownership and is not accessible to the public.
Key details about Crupet Castle:
Location: Crupet, Namur, Belgium
Construction period: 11th century
Original builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current purpose: Private property
Current owner: Private owner