Palaces & Castles
There are literally hundreds of palaces, castles, and major stately homes throughout the UK - some forlorn ruins from the distant past, while others are still lived in, visited by the public, and cared for as national treasures.
There are too many great palaces and castles to note here, but some of the best are detailed below. Many are within day trip proximity to London, and each will provide you with a fascinating insight into Britain's rich history.
Blenheim Palace, near Oxford
Blenheim Palace (see photo above) is set in rolling countryside just outside the university town of Oxford. The birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a Baroque masterpiece of epic proportions.
Blenheim Palace was built in the early 18th century, gifted by Queen Anne to the victorious Duke of Marlborough, who had defeated the French at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704. A palace of huge scale, the gardens are equally impressive, with triumphal arches, monuments, a temple, fountains, a maze, and a lake.
For more information: www.blenheim-palace.com.
Hampton Court Palace, south of London
Hampton Court Palace is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from London, and rightly so. Built on a gentle curve on the River Thames, this extensively remodeled royal palace has been home to Henry VIII and joint monarchs William and Mary.
For more information check out our Hampton Court guide.
Leeds Castle, Kent
Modestly billed as"The Most Wonderful Castle in the World", Leeds Castle is indeed an impressive sight perched on an island within a man-made lake. Constructed in 1119, the castle was for many centuries a royal residence, particularly popular with Henry VIII.
With its picturesque vista, Leeds Castle is a popular venue for lakeside concerts, firework displays, and the annual Hot Air Balloon and Vintage Car Weekend (held 8-9 September).
For more information: www.leeds-castle.co.uk.
Warwick Castle, near Stratford-Upon-Avon
Nestled in the heart of Shakespeare Country, Warwick Castle is an impressive monument to feudal power. A fortress of imposing proportions, Warwick Castle and it's medieval lords have played an important role in English history, a story that is retold inside the castle via a tableaux of wax figures (courtesy of castle owners, Madame Tussauds), sound, and smell.
The castle hosts a Medieval Festival throughout the summer months, featuring a 15th century fair, knights on horseback, jousting, archery demonstrations, and themed events. If that's all too much - check out the impressive Great Hall and the infamous dungeons, where medieval torture instruments are displayed.
For more information: www.warwick-castle.co.uk.
Windsor Castle, Windsor
The Queen's main residence, Windsor Castle dominates the skyline of this small town west of London. A community in its own right - with residences for staff within the castle walls, the huge castle complex features a number of architectural and historical highlights.
St. George's Chapel is the 15th century Gothic church of the Royal Family, and ten monarchs are buried within its confines. The nearby Round Tower is one of the most photographed buildings at Windsor, and was initially built in by William the Conqueror nearly 1,000 years ago.
The State Apartments and the reconstructed St. George's Hall are interior highlights, while artworks from the massive Royal Collection are also on display.
For more information: www.royal.gov.uk/palaces.
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