Are you contemplating a family outing to explore the rich history and architectural marvels of London and the broader UK? If so, visiting a castle should top your list. The UK is replete with castles, each telling a unique story of the past. These medieval structures, some of which were built as early as the 11th century, offer a thrilling journey through time. Castles such as the Tower of London, Warwick Castle, and many others host engaging exhibits that children and adults alike will find fascinating. This article presents an in-depth look at the best UK castles for your family to visit, particularly those offering interactive exhibits.
The Tower of London: A combination of history and drama
The Tower of London, one of the capital’s most iconic structures, offers a harmonious blend of gruesome history and spectacular royal wealth. This 11th-century castle, initially built by William the Conqueror, has served as a royal palace, prison, treasury, and even a zoo. You can spend an entire day unveiling the secrets of its history.
The Tower houses the Crown Jewels, which are a major draw for visitors, especially children. The glistening diamonds and precious gemstones will undoubtedly leave your kids in awe. You can also explore the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, which hosts a fascinating exhibition of royal armor and weapons.
The Medieval Palace, comprising the St. Thomas’s Tower, the Wakefield Tower, and the Lanthorn Tower, is another must-visit. Here, you will find a recreation of Edward I’s bedchamber and an interactive exhibition that allows children to dress up as medieval monarchs. The live reenactments by the costumed Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) are a real crowd-pleaser, providing an entertaining way to learn about the Tower’s history.
Warwick Castle: A medieval masterpiece with modern attractions
Warwick Castle is a truly immersive experience that takes you back to medieval times. Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, this castle is an exceptional place for a family day out. The castle overflows with a rich tapestry of history and modern interactive attractions that cater to every age group.
The castle’s Horrible Histories Maze is a standout feature, allowing kids to explore and learn about different periods in history in a fun and engaging way. They can navigate through the labyrinth, meeting characters from the past and uncovering historical facts as they go.
Additionally, the castle’s Birds of Prey Show is not to be missed. Here, you can watch majestic eagles, vultures, and other birds in flight, providing a thrilling experience for all family members.
The Time Tower is an immersive multimedia experience that tells the story of the castle’s 1,100-year history. The dramatic audio-visual show is certain to captivate your children’s imaginations. Warwick Castle also offers the unique opportunity to stay overnight in a Knight’s Village. After a day full of exploration, you can sleep like royalty in a fully-themed medieval lodge.
Leeds Castle: ‘The Loveliest Castle in the World’
Leeds Castle, often called ‘The Loveliest Castle in the World’, is nestled in the heart of Kent. It was built in the 12th century and has been home to many English queens. Today, the castle offers a range of exciting activities and interactive exhibits that are perfect for a family visit.
The Black Swan Ferry offers a leisurely boat trip across the castle’s moat and lakes, providing stunning views of the tranquil surroundings. The Knight’s Stronghold Playground is a wooden adventure playground where children can burn off energy.
The Birds of Prey Centre allows you to get up close with hawks, owls, vultures, and falcons, and witness these magnificent creatures in flight during the daily demonstrations. Don’t forget to visit the Dog Collar Museum which, despite its quirky theme, is a fascinating exhibit showcasing over 500 years’ worth of canine fashion.
Dover Castle: A Journey through England’s Past
Perched on top of the White Cliffs, Dover Castle is one of the most iconic of all English fortresses. This great castle, which has guarded our shores from invasion for over nine centuries, offers a wealth of history and a host of family-friendly activities.
A visit to the Great Tower allows you to step into the medieval world of King Henry II. You can explore the richly furnished rooms, discover the grandeur of the high-status guests’ chambers, and enjoy stunning views from the tower’s rooftop.
The Underground Hospital is another highlight. Here, you and your family can walk the same corridors as the nurses and soldiers during the Second World War. The hospital is a realistic representation of a wartime medical facility, with sounds and smells included for a truly immersive experience.
Interactive exhibits at the Operation Dynamo: Rescue from Dunkirk provide a multi-sensory, cinematic experience of the dramatic events of the Dunkirk evacuation. This, along with the castle’s other engaging attractions, makes Dover Castle an ideal destination for a family day out.
Edinburgh Castle: Scotland’s Leading Tourist Attraction
Edinburgh Castle, an ancient fortress perched atop an extinct volcano, is Scotland’s leading tourist attraction. This 12th-century castle built by David I is one of the UK’s most significant sites, offering an incredible journey both for the kids and adults.
One of the key highlights of the castle is the Scottish Crown Jewels. The oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles, it is an absolute must-see. The Stone of Destiny, used for centuries in the coronation of monarchs, is another exhibit that would intrigue the young and the old alike.
The Royal Palace within the castle grounds is where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI. Interactive exhibits in the palace bring to life the history and the royal residents of this iconic building. The Prisons of War exhibition offers a chance for kids to explore the castle’s vaults that once held prisoners of the American War of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars.
Furthermore, children will love the One o’Clock Gun. Fired every day except Sunday, this tradition has been kept alive since 1861. The Mons Meg, one of the greatest medieval cannons, is another exhibit that would fascinate young minds. With so much to offer, Edinburgh Castle is worth including in your itinerary.
Windsor Castle: A Royal Residence and Historic Masterpiece
Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Windsor Castle is steeped in history and is currently the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. It has been a home to 39 monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II who spends most of her private weekends here.
The State Apartments with their lavishly decorated interiors are a sight to behold. The Semi-State Rooms, used by The Queen for official entertaining, are equally impressive. They are among the most splendid interiors in the castle.
Children would enjoy the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, the largest dolls’ house in the world, which is a replica of an aristocratic home, complete with running water and electricity. The Moat Garden, once a home for prisoners but now a beautiful, tranquil garden, is a perfect spot for a family picnic.
History buffs will also appreciate the St. George’s Chapel, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the UK. It is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the oldest order of chivalry in the world. Also, it is the final resting place of 10 monarchs, including Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour.
With its wealth of history, grandeur, and interactive exhibits, Windsor Castle is an excellent destination for a family day out and a remarkable example of English heritage.
Visiting these castles provides an excellent opportunity for families to learn about the United Kingdom’s rich history in an enjoyable and interactive way. Each castle, from the Tower of London with its Crown Jewels, Warwick Castle’s Horrible Histories Maze, the tranquil beauty of Leeds Castle, Dover Castle’s WWII experience, the majesty of Edinburgh Castle, to the royal splendor of Windsor Castle, offers a unique experience.
Remember to check the opening times of each castle before planning your visit. Keep in mind that some castles offer discounted family tickets, making these fantastic trips more affordable.
Immerse yourself and your family in these remarkable structures that have withstood the test of time, survived civil wars, and bear the imprints of many a monarch. From motte and bailey designs to magnificent stone structures, these castles offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether it’s dressing up as a medieval monarch, exploring a maze, or watching a bird of prey in flight, these castles guarantee an unforgettable adventure for kids and adults alike, making them the best castles to visit in the United Kingdom.