*so far!
It is clear to everyone by now, I am sure, that I love castles. I have opinions on which types are best, of course, but really, I love them all. I love the aesthetics: the ruined ones, the restored ones, the mostly complete ones, and everything in between. Several years ago I decided it was prudent to set up a Google My Map of every castle I have seen, and all those I would like to see – I have barely scratched the surface of English castles, while Wales and most of mainland Europe are on the list of dreams. Needless to say, the list is…lengthy.
In this post are some of those I have visited – many of them multiple times – and found to be even more spectacular than others, or having historical significance that sticks in my mind. Some of these pictures are scans of those taken before digital technology (gasp!) so please bear with the quality. I hope you enjoy!
England
There are so incredibly many castles in England, and some of the most famous I have seen at a distance (Warwick for example). I have visited the Tower of London several times and – despite being chastised by a Beefeater for being overly excited – I experienced less emotional attachment than to some of these below.
Carisbrooke Castle
Located on the Isle of Wight, Carisbrooke is a fantastic example of a castle constructed across many generations and styles. Complete with an early motte-and-bailey that you can still climb, this gatehouse, and a perfect view across the countryside, the castle is an excellent spot for a day out and encompasses so many different ages of castle.
Ludlow Castle
Arguably one of the most stunningly ‘typical’ castles I have ever visited, Ludlow gained significance as a border castle, on the Welsh marches. It has been managed through the ages by some of the ‘biggest’ names in English medieval history including the Mortimers, de Lacys, and the Duke of York.
Scarborough Castle
Another link to King Henry II, Scarborough is mostly ruined but the views and remaining curtain wall are a ghostly example of what a high medieval castle could be.
France
The sheer variety of châteaux in France is world-famous – the Loire valley in particular boasts some of the most stunning in the world. As one who has spent a great deal of time studying French history, many of the locations inspire memories of a particular moment of battle or conflict, with castles at the crux of many arguments. There are so many I have yet to see, but Mum and I have managed a few.
Château d’Angers
Easily recognised by its stunning striped stonework, the Chateau d’Angers – or a version of it – has stood since the ninth century. The castle lent its name to the Angevin Kings of England, starting with Henry II.
Château de Carcassonne
I’ve written plenty about Carcassonne, one of the better examples of a modern restoration of a castle, complete with battlements.
Château de Chinon
Chinon is the setting of one of my favourite films, The Lion in Winter, and was a vital strategic fortress for Henry II. It is also where he passed away, betrayed by his last son. We visited in 2002.
Château de Loches
Though I did not know it in 2002, Loches is in fact twinned with St Andrews. The town itself is renowned for its medieval feel, but my recollection is mostly of the impressive square Norman keep that has remained in place despite all the construction around it. Another castle occupied by Henry II and Richard in their day.
Scotland
Needless to say, Scotland is rich with castles and I have done what I can to visit as many as possible – there are still many to go! A few stand out as favourites; many are of a similar style, with a central keep and walled courtyard of various sizes, known as a tower house. Most offer spectacular views over the ocean, shoreline, or countryside.
Caerlaverock Castle
Uniquely triangular in shape, Caerlaverock is another castle that has been partly destroyed and rebuilt over the years. Pieces of the walls are clearly medieval while the interior buildings are of a slightly newer style.
Castle Campbell
The location of Castle Campbell is half of its draw – nestled in Dollar Glen with walks on every side, every time I have visited has provided a different view. The tower itself is still relatively intact, and the views from the surrounding hills are breath-taking.
Craigmillar Castle
One of many castles most recently used for filming Outlander and other Scottish productions, Craigmillar is located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The castle itself offers a great place to explore, and the views back towards the city are excellent.
Doune Castle
Another movie star castle, Doune is mostly intact with a central keep that offers plenty of staircases and rooms to explore. It tends to be busy year-round but is one of my favourites since my solo visit in January many years ago.
Dunnottar Castle
Constructed on a rocky headland, Dunnottar is the epitome of a defensive castle; even now, it requires a good bit of climbing to reach its main gate. Once inside, one finds plenty of buildings to explore and views of the Aberdeenshire cliffs.
Elcho Castle
Self-contained and still in quite good shape, Elcho was a castle we visited on a spur-of-the-moment trip and I really enjoyed. It is ‘new’ for a castle, but the rooms inside have a solidly medieval feel. Lovely views over the countryside and the nearby River Tay.
Lochleven Castle
Once upon a time, the other half planned a daily outing for us, ‘Castle Day’, which included a picnic and boat trip to Lochleven Castle. Perfect for defence, the castle takes up most of the small island on which it was built. It was also one of several places where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned.
Stirling Castle
Last but not least, Stirling has always been one of my favourite castles. Similar to Edinburgh in some ways, it is still more medieval in feel, and it offers some of the best views in Scotland.
Finally, honourable mention must go to the castle of which I have more photos than any other and which I walk past almost every day: St Andrews. A bishop’s castle, it boasts a bottle dungeon, some lovely carvings, and perhaps most unique, a preserved mine and counter-mine dug during a siege. I will never grow tired of the view walking up the Scores past the castle, enjoying the magnificent gatehouse and the often pounding waves of the North Sea. It is almost impossible to pass by without taking yet another picture. The one below is from Christmas Eve 2022, in the pouring rain; but still a picture that needed to be taken.
The Wandering Medievalist 