Here’s our pick of the best 20 British Castles, in no particular order…
1. Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is one of England’s most picturesque historic sites, set on two islands within a lake and surrounded by extensive parkland. Originally built as a Norman stronghold in the 12th century, it later became a royal residence and then, over the centuries, the castle was remodelled, extended, and adapted.
In the 20th century, the castle was owned by Lady Baillie, who transformed it into an elegant country retreat. Upon her death, she left it to a charitable foundation to ensure its preservation and public accessibility. Today, visitors can explore the interiors, which reflect both medieval features and more modern decorative influences.
The surrounding grounds include formal gardens, woodland walks, and a popular hedge maze, offering a variety of outdoor experiences. It’s a popular day trip from nearby London.