Due to the pandemic, travelling abroad really isn't on my list of priorities at the moment, and I'm sure a lot of my fellow UK readers feel exactly the same. I was really feeling disheartened that I wasn't going to be able to experience any new countries, but then I decided that instead of moping, it was time to embrace the opportunity I had been handed.
There are hundreds of absolutely stunning locations right on my doorstep. I'm lucky enough to live in Kent, which is the South East of England, and a fantastic location to access a bunch of incredible castles.
So today I'm sharing with you all of the incredible castles I visited over the last few months. Hopefully I'll be able to add to the list in the future with an updated post!
Please note, at the time of writing all of these locations require booking in advance to visit due to the pandemic, so please double check before you visit! Some of the interior areas also remain closed.
This beautiful castle was once the home of Anne Boleyn and has plenty to explore. The gardens are particularly spectacular, with a gorgeous rose garden that blooms in the Summer with many different varieties. You can also rent a row boat and explore the large lake like we did, which I'd highly recommend.
Sissinghurst has more spectacular gardens, including the famous White Garden pictured above. There's lots to explore here, with areas for picnics and little cottages nestled in the corners of the walled gardens. The castle has a spectacular tower which you can enter on normal circumstances.
This castle is under the National Trust so you can visit if you have a membership!
Probably the grandest castle we visited was Arundel Castle in Sussex. The castle itself is truly spectacular and absolutely huge. The gardens are beautifully kept, and have so many different structures and areas that overlook the gorgeous Cathedral as well. We spent a whole day here and took so many photos because it was just all so beautiful!
This one isn't technically a castle, but it's so grand that it had to be included and I felt that all of you castle lovers would appreciate it too! Built in a classic French Chateau style, Waddesdon near Oxford is a must visit. The building itself is absolutely magical and like something right out of a fairytale. There are less gardens here, but there is a beautiful aviary where you can meet all kinds of birds.
This falls under National Trust so you can visit if you have a membership!
Definitely the cutest castle we visited, little Scotney Castle in Kent sits on the edge of a beautiful lake and again, reminds me of a fairytale with its rounded turrets. The land in the property is vast, with lots of beautiful gardens and woodland. It was just beautiful.
This one is another National Trust property.
This wonderful castle attracted me partially because of the beautiful pink hydrangea bushes outside, but it was a treat to explore. It sits on a lake and river which is popular for fishing and has wide fields around it so perfect for a day out or picnic.
Chiddingstone is the only castle on this list that does not require pre-booking and is free to visit the surrounding grounds (with a small donation for the car park).
I'd love to hear your recommendations for any other castles I should visit, and let me know if you've been to any of the ones listed! x
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