Imagine the delight of embarking on a month-long journey through England, exploring its magnificent castles and manor houses. Personally, I am enticed by the idea and would even extend the adventure to encompass the entirety of Europe.
England boasts a remarkable collection of castles and manor houses, as evidenced by this captivating photo gallery. While we showcase the renowned and undoubtedly best castles and manor houses, our list also includes hidden gems that are equally spectacular.
Take a leisurely scroll below and immerse yourself in the splendor of England’s finest castles and manor homes. Please note that this compilation solely focuses on England, omitting the exceptional castles and mansions of Ireland and Scotland, which warrant their own recognition.
Related: The Many Facets of Mansions | Decoding the Essence of a Mansion | Palace versus Castle versus Manor House | Enchanting Mountain Top Castles | A Journey into the World of Castles | The Creme de la Creme of Castles Worldwide
1. Warwick Castle
Behold Warwick Castle, a medieval stronghold situated in the county town of Warwickshire, England. Originally constructed as a wooden motte-and-bailey castle by the venerable William the Conqueror in 1068, it was later rebuilt using stone in the 12th century.
In 1604, Warwick Castle was bestowed upon Sir Fulke Greville by James I, undergoing a transformation into a country house owned by the esteemed Greville family, who would eventually become Earls of Warwick. Throughout its illustrious 950-year history, the castle has changed hands 36 times and currently resides under the ownership of The Blackstone Group.
Vital Details about Warwick Castle
Location: Warwickshire, England
Erected: 10th century
Architect: William the Conqueror
Architectural Style: Medieval
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owners: The Blackstone Group
2. Herstmonceux Castle
Nestled in East Sussex, England, Herstmonceux Castle is an enchanting brick-built fortress that dates back to the 15th century.
This castle stands as one of England’s oldest surviving brick structures, a testament to the craftsmanship of Flemish builders who contributed to its construction. Today, it serves as a study center and belongs to Queen’s University.
Vital Details about Herstmonceux Castle
Location: East Sussex, England
Erected: 15th century
Architect: Builders from Flanders
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Study Centre for Queen’s University
Current Owners: Queen’s University
3. Bodiam Castle
Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of Edward III, erected Bodiam Castle in 1385 with permission from Richard II. This impressive fortress was intended to defend the Robertsbridge area of East Sussex against potential French invasions during the Hundred Years’ War.
Ownership of Bodiam Castle passed through several generations of the Dalyngrigge family until their lineage expired. The castle subsequently changed hands through marriage and eventually came under the care of The National Trust, where it currently stands in a state of picturesque ruins.
Vital Details about Bodiam Castle
Location: Robertsbridge, East Sussex, England
Erected: 14th century
Architect: Sir Edward Dalyngrigge
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Ruins
Current Owners: The National Trust
4. Alnwick Castle
Situated in Alnwick, Northumberland, England, Alnwick Castle is an imposing stately home. Its origins trace back to the 11th century following the Norman conquest, when a nobleman named Ivo de Vesci constructed it. The castle underwent numerous renovations and reconstructions over time.
Presently, Alnwick Castle remains the residence of the Duke of Northumberland and welcomes visitors throughout the summer season.
Vital Details about Alnwick Castle
Location: Alnwick, Northumberland, England
Erected: 11th century
Architect: Norman nobleman Ivo de Vesci
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Residence of the Duke of Northumberland
Current Owners: Duke of Northumberland
5. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, located in Windsor, Berkshire, England, holds a significant place in English history and boasts remarkable architectural grandeur. Its construction dates back to the 11th century, following William the Conqueror’s Norman invasion of England. The castle has been closely associated with the English and British royal family and showcases remarkable architectural features.
Currently, Windsor Castle serves as the royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II, operating under the Crown. Limited public access allows visitors to marvel at its splendors.
Vital Details about Windsor Castle
Location: Windsor, Berkshire, England
Erected: 11th century
Architect: Sir William Whitfield
Architectural Style: Gothic style, Georgian architecture, Victorian architecture
Present Function: Royal Residence
Current Owners: Queen Elizabeth II
6. Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle, an exquisite country house in Hampshire, England, showcases the timeless beauty of Jacobethan architecture, designed by the renowned architect Charles Barry.
This castle’s foundations were laid on the site of the original medieval palace belonging to the Bishops of Winchester, who possessed the estate since the 9th century. Today, Highclere Castle serves as the country seat of the Earl of Carnarvon, a branch of the esteemed Anglo-Welsh Herbert family.
Vital Details about Highclere Castle
Location: Hampshire, England
Erected: 17th century
Architect: Charles Barry
Architectural Style: Jacobethan style/Jacobethan-revival style
Present Function: Seat of the Earl of Carnarvon
Current Owners: George Herbert, 8th Earl of Carnarvon
7. Mount Edgcumbe House
Mount Edgcumbe House, a splendid stately home in Cornwall, England, was constructed by Sir Richard Edgcumbe during the 16th century. For centuries, it served as the principal residence of the Edgcumbe family, until the 7th Earl sold the estate to Cornwall County Council and Plymouth City Council, enabling public access to the house.
Vital Details about Mount Edgcumbe House
Location: Cornwall, England
Erected: 16th century
Architect: Sir Richard Edgcumbe
Architectural Style: Tudor-gothic style
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council
8. Kenilworth Castle
Kenilworth Castle, with its rich architectural history spanning from the Norman to Tudor periods, has been hailed as the finest surviving example of a semi-royal palace from the later Middle Ages. Esteemed architectural historian Anthony Emery recognizes its significance in terms of scale, form, and craftsmanship.
This castle persevered through the historic Siege of Kenilworth in 1266, a notable six-month-long conflict believed to be England’s lengthiest siege. Over time, the castle fell into disrepair, transforming into a captivating ruin that is now accessible to the public, cared for by the Town of Kenilworth and maintained by English Heritage.
Vital Details about Kenilworth Castle
Location: Kenilworth, Warwickshire, England
Erected in the 11th century
Architect: Geoffrey de Clinton
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture/Tudor style
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Town of Kenilworth
9. Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle, located in Arundel, West Sussex, England, is a meticulously restored and remodeled medieval fortress. Originally built by Roger de Montgomery on Christmas Day in the 11th century, the castle underwent renovations in the 18th and 19th centuries following damage sustained during the English Civil War.
For over 400 years, Arundel Castle has been in the possession of the Duke of Norfolk’s family, tracing back to the 11th century. Today, it warmly welcomes visitors and is under the ownership of the Duke of Norfolk.
Vital Details about Arundel Castle
Location: Arundel, West Sussex, England
Erected: 11th century
Architect: Roger de Montgomery
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Duke of Norfolk
10. Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle, situated in Kent, England, holds a fascinating history. It was originally owned by a Saxon chief named Led or Leed, who constructed a wooden structure on two islands in the middle of the River Len in 857.
The castle passed through the de Crevecoeur family before being acquired by Queen Eleanor of Castile, the wife of King Edward I. Leeds Castle currently operates as a popular tourist attraction, overseen by the Leeds Castle Foundation.
Vital Details about Leeds Castle
Location: Kent, England
Erected: 11th century
Architect: Robert de Crèvecœur
Architectural Style: Norman architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Leeds Castle Foundation
11. Hever Castle
Hever Castle, situated in the village of Hever, Kent, England, was built in the 13th century as a remarkable country house. Constructed by the Boleyn family, it served as their seat for a century.
Later, the castle came into the possession of Anne of Cleves, King Henry VIII’s fourth wife, following the death of her father, Thomas Boleyn. Today, Hever Castle is open to the public and maintained by Broadland Properties Limited.
Vital Details about Hever Castle
Location: Hever, Kent, England
Erected: 13th century
Architect: Boleyn family
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Broadland Properties Limited
12. Wray Castle
Wray Castle, located in Claife, South Lakeland, Cumbria, is a captivating Victorian neo-gothic building constructed during the 12th century. It was erected by James Dawson, a surgeon from Liverpool, utilizing his wife’s fortune.
Following James Dawson’s passing, Wray Castle changed hands multiple times and is currently open to the public under the care of the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty.
Vital Details about Wray Castle
Location: Claife, South Lakeland, Cumbria, England
Erected: 12th century
Architect: James Dawson
Architectural Style: Victorian neo-gothic architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty
13. Lulworth Castle
Lulworth Castle, a mock castle from the early 17th century, stands proudly in East Lulworth, Dorset, England. Constructed as a hunting lodge by Thomas Howard, the 3rd Viscount Howard of Bindon, it was completed during the early 17th century.
The ownership of Lulworth Castle eventually passed into the hands of the Weld family, who still possess the property today.
Vital Details about Lulworth Castle
Location: East Lulworth, Dorset, England
Erected: 17th century
Architect: Thomas Howard
Architectural Style: Mock-gothic style
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owners: Weld family
14. Burghley House
Burghley House, an awe-inspiring sixteenth-century country house located in Cambridgeshire, England, holds a prominent position as a Grade I listed structure.
Built by the Cecil family, who still reside within its walls, the house exemplifies the Elizabethan prodigy house architectural style. Burghley House operates as a captivating tourist site and is open to the public under the management of the Burghley House Preservation Trust, overseen by the Cecil family.
Vital Details about Burghley House
Location: Cambridgeshire, England
Erected: 16th century
Architect: Cecil family
Architectural Style: Elizabethan prodigy style
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Cecil family
15. Lowther Castle
Lowther Castle, found in Cumbria, England, is a striking country house within the historic county of Westmorland. For centuries, it belonged to the Lowther family, specifically the Earls of Lonsdale, tracing its origins back to the Middle Ages. Currently, the castle is open to the public and cared for by the Lowther Estate Trust.
Vital Details about Lowther Castle
Location: Cumbria, England
Erected: 17th century
Architect: Robert Smirke
Architectural Style: Gothic revival architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Lowther family
16. Sizergh Castle
Sizergh Castle and Garden, located in Helsington, Cumbria, England, represent a splendid stately home and garden. It was originally owned by the Strickland family until it was gifted to the National Trust in 1950 by Gerald Strickland.
The castle and its surroundings are open to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate its elegant paintings and portraits.
Vital Details about Sizergh Castle
Location: Cumbria, England
Erected: 14th – 15th century
Architect: Strickland family
Architectural Style: Georgian style
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: National Trust
17. Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace, a royal palace situated in Greater London, holds a captivating history. Originally constructed by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, a favored figure of King Henry VIII, during the 16th century.
In 1529, the cardinal offered the palace to the king as a means to redeem himself from disgrace. Henry VIII further expanded the property. Today, Hampton Court Palace stands as a popular tourist destination, open to the public and currently owned by Queen Elizabeth II in right of the Crown.
Vital Details about Hampton Court Palace
Location: Greater London, England
Erected: 16th century
Architect: King Henry VIII for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey
Architectural Style: Baroque architecture
Present Function: Open to the public / Tourist attraction
Current Owners: Queen Elizabeth II in right of the Crown
18. Mannington Hall
Mannington Hall, near Itteringham, Norfolk, England, is a moated medieval country house that has been in the possession of the Walpole family since the 18th century.
Originally built in the 15th century, the first manor on the site underwent renovations
during the 19th century. Today, Mannington Hall is owned and occupied by Robert Walpole, 10th Baron Walpole, and is open to the public by appointment only.
Vital Details about Mannington Hall
Location: Norfolk, England
Erected: 15th century
Architect: Walpole family
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Open to the public by appointment only
Current Owners: Robert Walpole
19. Avebury Manor
Avebury Manor & Garden, an early 16th-century manor house, can be found in Avebury, near Marlborough, Wiltshire, England. The manor was built by William Dunch of Little Wittenham in Berkshire, who acquired the estate in 1551. It is currently in the hands of the National Trust and privately occupied.
Vital Details about Avebury Manor
Location: Avebury, England
Erected: 16th century
Architect: Richard Holford
Architectural Style: Georgian style
Present Function: Private property
Current Owners: National Trust
20. Belton House
Belton House, a Grade I listed country house, was constructed in the 16th century and is situated in Belton, near Grantham, Lincolnshire, England. It served as the seat of the Brownlow and Cust family.
In 1984, the family generously donated the house to the National Trust, and it now operates as a popular tourist site, open to the public.
Vital Details about Belton House
Location: Belton, Lincolnshire, England
Erected: 16th century
Architect: Anthony Salvin
Architectural Style: Carolean architecture
Present Function: Open to the public / Tourist site
Current Owners: National Trust
21. Haddon Hall
Haddon Hall, located in Bakewell, Derbyshire, England, is a stunning medieval manor house that has stood for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 12th century, and it has remained in the possession of the Manners family for over 900 years.
The house showcases a mix of architectural styles, including medieval, Tudor, and Elizabethan, making it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts. Haddon Hall is open to the public, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its rich heritage.
Vital Details about Haddon Hall
Location: Bakewell, Derbyshire, England
Erected: 12th century
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Medieval, Tudor, Elizabethan
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Manners family
22. Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace, situated in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England, is a grand country house that holds the title of a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built in the early 18th century as a gift to John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, for his victory in the Battle of Blenheim.
Designed in the Baroque architectural style, Blenheim Palace is renowned for its opulent interiors and vast landscaped gardens. It is open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into its lavish history.
Vital Details about Blenheim Palace
Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England
Erected: 18th century
Architect: John Vanbrugh
Architectural Style: Baroque
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: The Dukes of Marlborough
23. Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House, located in Bakewell, Derbyshire, England, is a magnificent stately home that has been passed down through the Cavendish family for over 500 years. The house dates back to the 16th century, but its construction and expansion continued over several centuries.
Chatsworth House showcases a blend of architectural styles, including Elizabethan, Baroque, and Neoclassical. Its extensive gardens, renowned for their beauty and artistry, are a major attraction. The house is open to the public, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur firsthand.
Vital Details about Chatsworth House
Location: Bakewell, Derbyshire, England
Erected: 16th century
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Elizabethan, Baroque, Neoclassical
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Cavendish family
24. St. Michael’s Mount
St. Michael’s Mount, situated in Marazion, Cornwall, England, is a tidal island crowned by a stunning castle and medieval church. It has been the residence of the St. Aubyn family since the 17th century.
Accessible via a causeway during low tide and by boat during high tide, St. Michael’s Mount offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Cornwall’s rich history. Visitors can explore the castle and its beautiful gardens, immersing themselves in the island’s captivating atmosphere.
Vital Details about St. Michael’s Mount
Location: Marazion, Cornwall, England
Erected: Medieval period
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Medieval
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: St. Aubyn family
25. Powis Castle
Powis Castle, situated near Welshpool, Powys, Wales (although outside of England), is a striking medieval fortress that dates back to the 13th century. It was built by Welsh princes and later became the ancestral home of the Herbert family.
The castle’s architecture showcases a blend of styles, including medieval, Elizabethan, and Baroque. Its stunning gardens, which feature terraces and rare plants, are a sight to behold. Powis Castle is open to the public, offering a glimpse into its rich history and remarkable beauty.
Vital Details about Powis Castle
Location: Welshpool, Powys, Wales (outside of England)
Erected: 13th century
Architect: Welsh princes
Architectural Style: Medieval, Elizabethan, Baroque
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: National Trust
These are just a few of the remarkable castles and manor houses that England has to offer. Exploring their history, architectural beauty, and surrounding landscapes can transport visitors to another era, providing a unique and enriching experience.
26. Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Northumberland coast, is a majestic fortress that has stood for over a millennium. Its origins can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period, and it later became the seat of the Northumbrian kings.
Over the centuries, Bamburgh Castle has witnessed various battles and transformations. Today, it stands as an iconic landmark and is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Vital Details about Bamburgh Castle
Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland, England
Erected: Anglo-Saxon period
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Medieval
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Armstrong family
27. Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle, nestled in the picturesque village of Dunster, Somerset, England, is a fortified manor house with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Originally built as a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, it evolved over time into a luxurious residence.
The castle boasts a mix of architectural styles, including medieval, Georgian, and Victorian. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors, enchanting gardens, and enjoy breathtaking views of Exmoor National Park. Dunster Castle is open to the public, immersing them in the splendor of its bygone era.
Vital Details about Dunster Castle
Location: Dunster, Somerset, England
Erected: Norman period
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Medieval, Georgian, Victorian
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: National Trust
28. Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle, situated in the village of Corfe Castle, Dorset, England, is a dramatic ruin that tells tales of battles and sieges. It was initially constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and played a crucial role in defending the region.
The castle showcases Norman architecture and offers captivating views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can wander through its atmospheric remnants, learn about its turbulent history, and soak in the beauty of the Dorset landscape. Corfe Castle is open to the public, inviting them to step back in time.
Vital Details about Corfe Castle
Location: Corfe Castle, Dorset, England
Erected: 11th century
Architect: William the Conqueror
Architectural Style: Norman
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: National Trust
29. Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle, perched on the rugged cliffs of Tintagel Island in Cornwall, England, is steeped in Arthurian legend and mythology. Believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur, it has captivated imaginations for centuries.
The castle’s ruins date back to the medieval period, with remnants of earlier structures. Visitors can explore the site, including the famous “King Arthur’s Great Halls,” and admire the stunning coastal scenery. Tintagel Castle offers a unique blend of history, myth, and natural beauty, welcoming visitors to delve into the Arthurian tales.
Vital Details about Tintagel Castle
Location: Tintagel, Cornwall, England
Erected: Medieval period
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Medieval
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: English Heritage
30. Sudeley Castle
Sudeley Castle, located in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, England, is a splendid fortified manor house with a rich history dating back to the 15th century. It has been the residence of numerous royal figures, including Queen Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII.
The castle showcases Tudor and Gothic architectural styles and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. Visitors can explore its historic interiors, visit the magnificent chapel, and enjoy the tranquility of the grounds. Sudeley Castle offers a glimpse into the lives of royalty and a serene escape into the Cotswolds countryside.
Vital Details about Sudeley Castle
Location: Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, England
Erected: 15th century
Architect: Various
Architectural Style: Tudor, Gothic
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owners: Dent family
These additional castles and manor houses continue to showcase the diverse architectural heritage and historical significance found throughout England. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the past, inviting visitors to explore their stories and immerse themselves in the grandeur of these remarkable structures.