12 Abandoned Castles To Visit In England
Over 100 abandoned castles dot the English landscape. Once grand homes or formidable fortresses, some dating back to the Middle Ages, many now stand empty, crumbling from lack of upkeep.
Despite their decay, these historic structures captivate visitors with their fairytale charm. Some hold dark histories of tragedy, horror, and legend, yet our fascination with exploring ruined castles only deepens.
There’s an unexpected beauty in their weathered stone walls. Unlike modern buildings, these castles reveal a level of craftsmanship and detail that continues to inspire awe.
From restored homes like Leeds Castle in Kent to derelict structures, each one holds an interesting story.
Ludlow Castle
- Location: Ludlow Square, Shropshire | Nearest train station: Ludlow
Though located in Shropshire, Ludlow Castle once served as the headquarters for the Council of the Welsh Marches. William the Conqueror created marches or borders to defend land adjacent to England.
Built in the 11th century by nobleman Walter de Lacy, the limestone fortress sits high on a bluff overlooking the River Teme, making it a strategic military site.
The Crown took control in the 15th century, turning it into a prominent royal residence for over 350 years. Later abandoned, the castle fell into ruin and was looted.
Since 1811, the Earls of Powis have owned Ludlow Castle. With support from English Heritage, they continue to preserve and restore this historic site.
Bodiam Castle
- Location: Robertsbridge, East Sussex | Nearest train station: Robertsbridge
Bodiam Castle in southern England is one of the country’s most beloved abandoned castles. Surrounded by a picturesque moat, it looks like something out of a fairy tale. Though in ruins, it’s carefully preserved by the National Trust.
Built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge in East Sussex, it appears well-preserved from the outside, though much of the interior is gone.
Designed as a square without a central keep, the castle allows visitors to climb spiral staircases to the upper walls, where they’re rewarded with stunning views of the Sussex countryside.
The castle’s purpose remains debated. Some believe it was built as a military stronghold due to its proximity to France, while others argue its thin walls, large windows, and shallow moat suggest it was meant more for show and entertainment.
Bodiam Castle has appeared in films like Robin Hood, Doctor Who, and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
The White Hart Inn provides lovely accommodation in the area. Guests have access to a bar, restaurant, and complimentary WiFi.
Kenilworth Castle
- Location: Castle Green, Kenilworth, Warwickshire | Nearest train station: Kenilworth
Built from striking red sandstone, Kenilworth Castle is a historic gem that evolved from a medieval fortress into an Elizabethan palace. It even housed a king.
One of England’s most impressive ruins, it’s rare to see a red-brick castle like this. Admission includes access to the tower built by Robert Dudley to woo Elizabeth I, offering a glimpse into the castle’s former grandeur.
Though the original Elizabethan Gardens were lost centuries ago, they’ve been beautifully recreated. They include a white marble Renaissance fountain, boxwood hedges, and an aviary.
Like Corfe Castle, Kenilworth was partly dismantled by Parliament in the 17th century to prevent military use. By the 18th century, it had become a popular tourist site. In 1958, it was gifted to the town, and English Heritage has managed it since 1984.
Though now a ruin, added walkways and staircases let visitors climb to the top and take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Pevensey Castle
- Location: Castle Rd, Pevensey, East Sussex | Nearest train station: Pevensey Bay
Just a half-hour drive from Bodiam Castle is the medieval ruins of Pevensey Castle in East Sussex. Since these castles are close together, we visited both Sussex attractions on the same day.
Pevensey Castle was once a former Roman Saxon Shore fort. This impressive structure is renowned as the landing place of William the Conqueror’s army in 1066. During its prime, it endured numerous sieges throughout its long history.
It also served as a prison for some famous individuals like King James I of Scotland. The castle began to decay in the 14th century and crumbled quite rapidly.
A large curtain wall constructed by different workers surrounds Pevensey Castle. Sections of this wall are very different due to the materials used. Its gatehouse is one of the predominant features.
If you plan to visit Pevensey Castle, it’s good to note that guided tours do not exist. So, purchase a guidebook or audio guide at the gift shop, which contains a wealth of information.
Goodrich Castle
- Location: Goodrich, Herefordshire | Nearest train station: Drybrook Road
Perched on solid bedrock above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle once guarded the key route between Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth. Originally built from earth and wood after the Norman invasion, it was later rebuilt in stone.
By the 1640s, after the Civil War, the castle was abandoned and its battlements removed. By the 18th century, it had become a popular tourist site.
In the 19th century, ivy and wild roses covered the ruins, giving them a romantic look—but also causing structural damage. The Office of Works took over in 1920, clearing the overgrowth and reinforcing the stonework.
English Heritage has managed the site since 1984, preserving the ruins and ensuring visitor safety. For a striking example of medieval military architecture, Goodrich Castle is well worth a visit.
Dunstanburgh Castle
- Location: Dunstanburgh Rd, Craster, Northumberland | Nearest train station: Alnmouth
The dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle rise above the Northumberland coast. Owned by the National Trust and managed by English Heritage, its seaside location makes for a peaceful and scenic visit.
Built in 1313 by Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, the castle later passed to John of Gaunt, whose rushed modifications weakened the structure. Attacks during the Wars of the Roses (1455–1485) hastened its decline, and it was eventually abandoned.
Due to its remote setting, Dunstanburgh was never a key military stronghold. Instead, it served as a refuge during Scottish raids and a landing point for nobles heading north.
To visit, prepare for a 1.5-mile walk from the Craster car park. The twin towers of the gatehouse still stand, offering a glimpse of the castle’s former grandeur despite its ruined state.
Newark Castle
- Location: Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire | Nearest train station: Newark Castle
Built during the 12th century in Newark-on-Trent, timber was the chief material of Newark Castle. Five hundred years later, the castle was dismantled and restored in the 19th century after the English civil war.
History of the Castle includes the death of King John, Knights Templar, Civil War, and the War of the Roses. Today, the castle is pretty well a skeleton. Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful bag of bones.
A visit to Newark Castle includes terrific views of the town of Trent and the surrounding countryside. On a sunny day, walk the restored gardens and imagine what life was like there hundreds of years ago.
The guides at the castle are very knowledgeable and friendly and quite witty at times. If you want to immerse yourself in the history of this imposing castle, be sure to schedule a tour.
Corfe Castle
- Location: The Square, Wareham, Dorset | Nearest train station: Corfe Castle
Rising above the village of Corfe in Dorset, the striking ruins of Corfe Castle overlook a natural gap in the Purbeck Hills. The name “Corfe” comes from the Saxon ceorfan, meaning “cutting,” a nod to this landscape feature.
Built in 1086 for William the Conqueror, the Norman-style tower and keep served as a stronghold for nearly 600 years until Parliament ordered its destruction.
Though abandoned, the castle remains a must-see. Villagers later reused its stones in their homes, and visitors today can view a model village showing how it once looked.
Standing among the ruins, it’s easy to imagine its former glory—and hard to believe it was destroyed by government decree. Maintained by the National Trust, Corfe Castle is even said to be haunted by a headless woman.
Britain’s deep history is filled with ancient ruins like this, crumbling castles, deserted farms, and long-lost factories scattered across the land.
Old Wardour Castle
- Location: Tisbury, Salisbury | Nearest train station: Tisbury
Due to its early beginnings in the 1300s and its extensive battle action in 1643, it’s not surprising that Old Wardour Castle is in ruins. During the besiege, which lasted three months, the castle’s structure was weakened, and two towers were destroyed.
Old Wardour Castle differs from others due to its hexagonal shape. It’s the only hexagonal castle in England. The initial design featured four stories surrounding a central courtyard, and it’s believed it was constructed for entertaining, not for battle.
After the structure was weakened in 1643, the Arundell family chose not to rebuild the original castle but constructed living quarters from the outbuildings instead. In the 18th century, the occupants built a New Wardour, and the Old remained a ruin.
Today, the crumbling ruins are managed by the English Heritage. Even though the castle was never restored, visitors can enjoy the romantic ruins and climb some of its remaining towers for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Wolvesey Castle
- Location: Winchester, Hampshire | Nearest train station: Winchester
Also maintained by the British Heritage, the initial Wolvesey Castle in the English county of Hampshire dates back to the 1100s. The initial structure, built by Bishop de Blois, resembled more of a palace than a castle.
Wolvesey Castle was the Bishop of Winchester’s private residence and was often called the “Old Bishop’s Palace.” The stately home was built in stages, and there were many additions and renovations.
No longer home to powerful rulers, the castle was eventually demolished in 1680 and replaced by a nearby palace constructed in the Baroque style.
While much of the actual castle is ruinous, visitors can tour the keep, gatehouse, two towers, and stables. Outside, you can explore the extensive castle grounds, which are well-maintained. Wolvesey Castle is open to the public during daylight hours with no admission fee.
Beeston Castle
- Location: Chapel Lane, Beeston, Cheshire | Nearest train station: Chester
Perched atop a 500-foot sandstone cliff, the 13th-century ruins of Beeston Castle command sweeping views of the Cheshire Plain and nearby Wales. Though its origins trace back to the Bronze Age, the current fortress was begun by Ranulf, Earl of Chester, but left unfinished at his death.
Unlike typical Norman castles, Beeston lacks a central keep and is instead ringed by strong curtain walls. Once a royal residence under King Henry III, it remained active until the mid-17th century.
Despite centuries of erosion and damage, visitors can still see three surviving D-shaped towers along the outer walls, which cling to the hillside. Nearby, the Victorian-era Peckforton Castle contrasts sharply with Beeston’s authentic medieval design.
Peveril Castle
- Location: Market Pl, Castleton, Hope Valley | Nearest train station: Hope
Peveril Castle is one of England’s oldest Norman fortresses. It stands in the Peak District, a national park since 1951. The castle is roughly triangular in shape. Henry II built the keep in 1176.
It sits high on a steep hill. The southeast side drops off with a nearly sheer cliff. This dramatic location gave it strong natural defenses. It also symbolized authority and power in the region. The views over Hope Valley are breathtaking. It’s one of the highest points in Castleton.
Visitors can learn about the castle at the on-site center. Then, they can explore the ruins on foot. Don’t miss the preserved garderobe, a medieval toilet still intact today. It’s a quirky and memorable detail of the site.
Final Thoughts
From crumbling abandoned castles to derelict medieval buildings, these English ruins are eye candy to photographers and history buffs. Sometimes while the walls are crumbling, some parts of the interiors have stood the test of time.
This is the case at the Roman Palace in Fishbourne. Its magnificent mosaic floors are remarkably preserved and available to view in a cavernous building that stands where the Palace stood. Located in West Sussex, Fishbourne Roman Palace makes for a great day trip in England’s south.
Now England isn’t the only place that houses these treasured buildings. Scotland, Wales, and Ireland have their fair share of castle ruins too.
Whether it’s the ancient stories or the beauty of new growth within a relic, each structure holds its own uniqueness. While most will visit some famous castles, try to reserve time to see some abandoned places in Britain. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you discover.
