What to do and see in South West England, England: The Best Castles

June 25, 2021 Karren Gelb

Discover the best top things to do in South West England, United Kingdom including St. Michael's Mount, Tintagel Castle, St. Mawes Castle, Liddington Castle, Thornbury Castle, Powderham Castle, Pendennis Castle, Berry Pomeroy Castle, Sherborne Castle & Gardens, Corfe Castle.
Restaurants in South West England

1. St. Michael's Mount

Kings Road, Marazion TR17 0EJ England +44 1736 710507 [email protected] http://www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk/
Excellent
67%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 5,032 reviews

St. Michael's Mount

Cross the causeway where a legendary giant once walked. Follow the footsteps of pilgrims or boat hop to an island where modern life meets layers of history. Discover an evocative castle, a sub-tropical garden paradise and a close-knit island community.

Reviewed By 112trev0r - Northampton, United Kingdom

Hi " there just had an amazing day out at st Michael mount, " in Cornwall. It's a national trust place so if your a member of the national trust car parking and st Michael mount is free . But even if your not a member it well worth the money they charge it keep up with the maintenance works and repairs . Of the beautiful buildings. There's a absolutely lovely restaurant. On site really good facilities. The whole place was so clean " for such a large national trust site ' .it is a bit of a steep climb up the hill " to the fortification / castle, so much to see and the views were stunning " . And that just a taster of what to come inside there's so many amazing things to see " theres national trust guides to inform you about the history of the building and various collections on display. St Michael mount. Is a amazing day out for all the family. It's all a great adventure. a must do place. What should be on you list of places to see when you are in Cornwall " . Many thanks to all the national trust volunteers and staff " who made our day out so special Trevor Northampton England.

2. Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle Castle Road, Tintagel PL34 0HE England +44 1840 770328 http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/?utm_source=Trip%20Advisor&utm_campaign=Local%20Listings&utm_medium=Trip%20Advisor%20Profiles&utm_content=tintagel%20castle
Excellent
58%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 4,358 reviews

Tintagel Castle

This brooding 13th-century castle sits on the rugged and spectacular Atlantic coast in Cornwall, which recalls the myth and mystery associated with King Arthur and Merlin the magician. New exhibition explores the stories linking Tintagel to King Arthur which includes a 3D model of the site illustrating how it has changed over the centuries. Dog friendly and child friendly, this is a great day out for all the family.

Reviewed By E7915GUianc - Basingstoke, United Kingdom

Excellent trip to the castle, im petrified of heights and still managed to get to the top, king Arthur is up on the highest of hills and the views from up there are breath taking... it is well worth a visit... excellent fun for ALL the family

3. St. Mawes Castle

St Mawes TR2 5DE England +44 1326 270526 [email protected] http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-mawes-castle/?utm_source=Trip%20Advisor&utm_campaign=Local%20Listings&utm_medium=Trip%20Advisor%20Profiles&utm_content=st%20mawes
Excellent
58%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 635 reviews

St. Mawes Castle

This round stone artillery fortress was built for Henry the Eighth in 1542, using a cloverleaf plan with a four-storied round tower. Take the free audio tour to discover life at the castle during the Civil War and explore the castle and grounds with its stunning views out to sea. Child friendly and dog friendly.

Reviewed By 762jeffreyg - London, United Kingdom

Set just outside St Mawes this castle built on behalf of Henry VIII was intended to stop invaders and pirates from invading the upper reaches of the river estuary. Later the French and then Germans were the main threat and so this castle and Pendennis Castle on the other side of the Estuary controlled these waters with their artillery for many years. There are many steps and the castle is structured over a number of layers to provide gun platforms for controlling that side of estuary. Lots of hand rails and safety guards. Excellent toilet facilities and shop run by English Heritage. Lots of benches for sitting and admiring the views and ideal for picnics.

4. Liddington Castle

Liddington, Swindon SN4 0HJ England
Excellent
62%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 29 reviews

Liddington Castle

Historians have speculated that The Battle of Badon Hill fought by King Arthur could have taken place at Liddington Castle; come see for yourself.

Reviewed By Lynn8038

Stunning hillfort with great views of hills and fields around Swindon, some parking nearby. Wear a warm coat its windy all times of the year. Love the walk and history..

5. Thornbury Castle

Thornbury BS35 1HH England +44 1454 281182 http://www.thornburycastle.co.uk/
Excellent
61%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
3%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 202 reviews

Thornbury Castle

Who hasn't dreamed of staying in a romantic castle tucked away in the English countryside? You can at the 16th-century Thornbury, which is a perfect home base for exploring the region of South Wales, the Cotswolds, Bristol, Wye Valley and Somerset.

Reviewed By triedamdtested - Coventry, United Kingdom

We bought the afternoon tea at an local auction the castle had kindly donated. Fantastic selection of teas and a beautifully presented selection of sandwiches, quiches, scones and cakes. Didn’t realise the castle had been taken over by a hotel chain so many changes since my last visit over 20 years ago. The grounds are spectacular with the two heli pads as you enter through the walls. A lovely place to watch the birds dancing in the skies and dream of days gone by.

6. Powderham Castle

Kenton, Kenton EX6 8JQ England +44 1626 890243 [email protected] http://www.powderham.co.uk
Excellent
59%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 974 reviews

Powderham Castle

Open from 24 March until 1 November 2019. Powderham Castle is the family home of the 19th Earl & Countess of Devon. It was originally built by Sir Philip Courtenay in 1391 and despite undergoing many transformations since surviving the ravages of the civil war in the 17th century, it has remained in the same family. Entertaining guided tours bring the fascinating history to life, you will find them engaging whatever your age. Discover secret doors, stunning architecture and even a haunted landing. We would advise you to allow at least 3 hours for your visit so you can take time to explore the many acres of gardens and grounds. The Walled Garden is home to our friendly Powderham pets, including Tessa the tortoise and Harry the donkey, and is a safe haven for our little visitors. Relax in the peaceful surroundings, from the beautiful Rose Garden, overlooking the deer park and Exe estuary to the Woodland Garden, with its stunning collection of trees.

Reviewed By keithkillingback - Dawlish, United Kingdom

Great place to visit, great restaurant good menu friendly staff, good farm shop and butlers, good walks dog friendly

7. Pendennis Castle

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth TR11 4LP England +44 1326 316594 [email protected] http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/pendennis-castle/?utm_source=Trip%20Advisor&utm_campaign=Local%20Listings&utm_medium=Trip%20Advisor%20Profiles&utm_content=pendennis%20castle
Excellent
58%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2,022 reviews

Pendennis Castle

Explore one of Henry VIII's finest coastal fortresses, Pendennis Castle, which has defended Cornwall against foreign invasion since Tudor times. Discover how the castle has evolved, and experience the sights and sounds of battle. Explore the fascinating new exhibition which examines the role of the castle as part of Fortress Falmouth during the First World War.

Reviewed By Trucks47 - Newton Abbot, United Kingdom

Had a great few hours touring around the castle and the grounds, amazing views and the weather was on our side????The real highlight were the excellent tour guides of the Keep tower and Half moon battery and special mention to "Sergeant Steve" who was very informative and is a real asset in the service he provides. Good value and well worth a visit.????????????????

8. Berry Pomeroy Castle

Totnes TQ9 6LJ England +44 1803 866618 [email protected] http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/berry-pomeroy-castle/
Excellent
51%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 411 reviews

Berry Pomeroy Castle

Tucked away in a deep wooded valley, Berry Pomeroy Castle is the perfect romantic ruin with a colourful history of intrigue. Within the 15th-century defences of the Pomeroy family castle, looms the dramatic ruined shell of its successor, the great Elizabethan mansion of the Seymours. Begun in around 1560 and ambitiously enlarged from around 1600, their mansion was intended to become the most spectacular house in Devon, a match for Longleat and Audley End. Never completed, and abandoned by 1700, it became the focus of blood-curdling ghost stories, recounted in the audio tour. The location of the castle makes it ideal for walkers who can explore the nearby beautiful woodland or you can enjoy a light lunch, home made cake or restorative cup of tea in the cafe. Within a short drive are Totnes Castle and Dartmouth Castle, making it an ideal day out for families.

Reviewed By 236traceya - Havant, United Kingdom

A scenic & peaceful area with the stunning ruins of the famously haunted Berry Pomeroy Castle that is steeped in a turbulent & colourful history between the Pomeroy & Seymour families, that is lovingly maintained by the English Heritage Society, there is a small on-site cafe & a limited amount of parking in the carpark nearby that has some marked disabled bays, but be careful of the narrow bendy lanes to get there, as I found it quite dangerous with people driving far too fast in the opposite direction when the roads were muddy & the sun was glaring, nevertheless it was well worth the visit, just don't forget to book online before visiting.

9. Sherborne Castle & Gardens

Sherborne Castle New Road, Sherborne DT9 5NR England +44 1935 813182 [email protected] http://www.sherbornecastle.com
Excellent
59%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 538 reviews

Sherborne Castle & Gardens

Sherborne Castle & Gardens is a wonderful day out. Visit our historic castle and walk through 400 years of history, explore 42 acres of “capability” Brown landscape gardens and take time to enjoy a delicious cream tea in our tea room. Why not browse in the gift shop & pick up a bottle of our very own Sherborne Castle Wine to take home to drink with your supper!

Reviewed By GrahamP1518

We visited this amazing castle that was built for Sir Walter Raleigh, what a treat beautiful castle and gardens by Capability Brown. Lots of history here and great views over the gardens and old castle. Very much enjoyed our day!

10. Corfe Castle

The Square, Corfe Castle BH20 5EZ England +44 1929 481294 [email protected] http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle
Excellent
59%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2,838 reviews

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is open for those who have booked a timed slot only. Uncover the secrets of Dorset's iconic medieval castle. A favourite haunt for adults and children alike, you can't fail to be captivated by these romantic castle ruins with breathtaking views.Castle - Discover 1000 years of the castle's history as a royal palace and fortress. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner. Spot the 'murder holes' and count the arrow loops. Feel history come to life and see the wildlife which has set up home in these facinating castle ruins.Shop - In the village square, our shop offers a range of products from pocket money treats to luxury locally made gifts.Tea Rooms - Indulge in a homemade Dorset cream tea in our delightful 18th centry tea rooms. Enjoy the summer garden with unrivalled castle views or the glowing open log fire in winter.

Reviewed By E7915GUianc - Basingstoke, United Kingdom

We were attending a nearby wedding and stayed over night and decided to incorporate a trip to Corfe castle in the visit, and it added a great deal to the weekend, Lots of history from the civil war era and beyond, a lovely fresh air national trust site, a steam railway runs about 1/2 mile away, which sometimes can give great views. Whilst relatively expensive, it makes taking out the Nat Trust membership even more worthwhile. Generally a great learning experience for bith adults and kids can also have great fun. Worth a trip to be fair

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