Top 5 Castles in England To Visit On A UK Working Holiday

First on the list is the Tower of London. It’s not just any tower; it’s THE Tower. Considered one of the oldest castles in England, this fortress has stood tall since the 11th century, witnessing some of the most significant events in English history. It has served as a royal palace, a treasury, a menagerie, a prison, and yes, even a zoo!

However, today, it proudly stands as a museum showcasing the breathtaking Crown Jewels– a set of regalia so glittering that they could give the Northern Lights a run for their money. You can tour the medieval White Tower, the oldest structure within the castle, housing a stunning collection of royal armour and weapons.

Immerse yourself in the rich–and let’s face it, sometimes hair-raising–history of one of the most spectacular English castles. Marvel at stories of royal intrigue, plots, and executions that echo through the centuries. You might even encounter the headless spectre of Anne Boleyn! According to spine-chilling tales, still haunts the castle’s chapel. So, if you’re easily spooked, you might want to reconsider that late-night ghost tour!

Secondly, you should pack your spirit of adventure as we journey next to Warwick Castle. This isn’t your average ancient monument collecting dust– Warwick Castle brings history to life with a dash of flair and a generous helping of excitement. Here, you can scale its formidable towers for a panoramic view of the countryside, or wander through the stately rooms resplendent with royal luxury. Warwick Castle is one of the most breathtaking castle hotels in England with accommodation options for a variety of budgets.

But the real charm of Warwick lies in its interactive exhibits. Navigate the Horrible Histories Maze, a mind-boggling labyrinth filled with historical facts that can give your trivia night a major upgrade. Furthermore, be sure not to miss the world’s largest working siege engine – the trebuchet – as it hurls flaming balls across the river, offering a heart-thumping spectacle.

And if you’ve ever fancied yourself in a suit of armour, Warwick has you covered. Join in on jousting tournaments and live out your knightly dreams. Who knows? You might just discover your inner Sir Justin Bieber of Stratford! So, don your helmet, and grab that lance! Charge forth into a medieval world of wonder at Warwick Castle, a true gem among the castles in England.

No castle-hopping in the UK would be complete without a stop at Windsor Castle. This grand royal fortress, once the beloved weekend retreat of the late Queen Elizabeth II, stands as the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. If it was fit for a queen, it surely earns a spot on a Canuck’s bucket list, eh? Windsor Castle isn’t just a sight for sore tourist eyes, but a symbol of British tradition and history. It continues to function as an active royal residence, filled with living stories of the monarchy’s past and present. Feast your eyes on the lavishly adorned State Apartments, home to an enviable collection of artworks.

Then there’s the iconic St George’s Chapel, not just a place of worship, but a resting place for English monarchs, and a beautiful stage for royal weddings that have captured the world’s attention. Step into the pages of a royal fairytale as you explore the wonders of Windsor Castle, an enchanting highlight among castles in England.

Despite its name, Leeds Castle is nestled not in Leeds, but in the idyllic county of Kent. Known as the “loveliest castle in the world,” it has more to boast about than its apparent affinity for ducks (even if it could give a Halifax park a run for its money!). Leeds Castle offers an enticing blend of peaceful retreat and exhilarating exploration, which is sure to make your visit an unforgettable one. Leeds Castle is one of the most unique castle hotels in England due to its location & surroundings.

Surrounded by a picturesque landscape, Leeds Castle is a gem sitting on 500 acres of lush parkland. It houses an expansive aviary, a bewildering maze, a mysterious grotto, and beautiful gardens perfect for those tranquil strolls. The castle itself is a marvel, with its stunning architecture and opulent interiors that house centuries-old artifacts.

And just when you think you’ve seen it all, you’ll stumble upon the Dog Collar Museum. That’s right, a museum dedicated to an eclectic assortment of historic and intriguing dog collars! Leeds Castle is undoubtedly one of our must-see English castles, bursting with quirky surprises.

Finally, our last stop in England takes us to the enchanting Alnwick Castle. For all you Harry Potter fans out there, this name should ring a bell – or should we say, a Quidditch whistle! This is where you can trade in your toque for a wizard’s hat and channel your inner Potter.

Alnwick Castle’s claim to fame is its stint as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter films. Here, you can take broomstick training lessons at the very spot where Harry himself learned to fly – how’s that for a magical experience?

But the magic of Alnwick isn’t confined to the wizarding world. The castle is renowned for its stunning state rooms filled with impressive artworks. The Alnwick Garden can also be found, celebrated for its grand cascading water features and the infamous Poison Garden. Are you an aspiring wizard? Or simply a lover of beautiful English castles, Alnwick Castle promises an adventure that’s truly spellbinding.