Wrexham

Situated in the Welsh Marshes, this medieval fortress dates back to 1310. Little ones can dress up in armour and guard the fortress, but be sure not to cross their paths as you might end up in the castle’s creepy dungeon or put in the stocks. Chirk also has beautiful award-winning gardens perfect for some peace and quiet, and stunning woodlands home to pretty bluebells and cute Berkshire pigs. A fun day out for little kids and big ones too.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more information. 

Warwick

With over 1000 years of history running through Warwick Castle, you really do feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Whether you’re keen on learning all about the secrets and scandals of Royal residents in Victorian times, or the gory and gruesome tales that took place in the castle’s dungeon, a day at ‘Britain’s Ultimate Castle’ is sure to keep their imaginations going for months and months.

Visit www.warwick-castle.com for more information.

Kent

Leeds Castle is nestled in the Kent countryside (confusing we know) and the perfect choice for any London based families wishing to escape the Capital this summer. Jump on Elsie the Castle Train to take you from the entrance to the castle, get lost in the spiraling yew maze, or relax with a decadent afternoon tea. This summer the castle is also hosting a 1950s inspired weekend in honor of the Queen’s Jubilee – get stuck in to traditional cream teas, spot some retro cars and watch the London celebrations on the big screen minus the busy crowds.

For more information visit www.leeds-castle.com.

Cornwall

Venture out to sea to find one of Britain’s most beautiful and unique castles. Sat on top of an island off the coast of Cornwall, St Michael’s Mount can be accessed on foot or by boat depending on the tide. One of the castle’s biggest attractions are the sub-tropical gardens where young and old can marvel at exotic plants you’d expect to find in Mexico, the Canary Islands or South Africa. When you reach the top, little one’s will really feel like the King of the Castle as they look down over the mainland and out to sea.

For more information visit www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk

Gwynedd

There’s no end to the fun kids can get up to at Penrhyn Castle. Explore the grounds, find hidden treasures in the preserved staterooms or learn all about Britain’s railways at the castle’s Railway Museum.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

North Yorkshire

Train rides to the adventure playground and boat trips on the Great Lake will ensure little one’s have a fantastic time at Castle Howard. Stock up on something delicious for dinner in the local farm shop or treat yourself to some beautiful plants in the property’s garden centre. There really is something for all the family to enjoy at North Yorkshire’s Castle Howard.

For more information visit www.castlehoward.co.uk.

West Sussex

Looking over the River Arun in West Sussex’s sprawling countryside, watch little ones immerse themselves in history at Arundel Castle. This impressive castle sits 100 feet high above a dry moat. And with plenty of dungeons, winding walls and hidden treasures, children and adults will be amused for hours. Make sure you get there early, as there is so much to see and do at this vast castle. During August take advantage of Arundel’s open-air theatre where a lineup of Shakespeare plays will be performed, from the epic The Tempest to the hilarious Taming of the Shrew.

For more information visit www.arundelcastle.org

Aberdeenshire

For families north of the border, head to Craigievar Castle in the stunning Aberdeenshire countryside for a truly magical day out. This higgledy-piggledy castle looks like it could have been pulled straight from the pages of a fairytale as it creeps out of the rolling Scottish hills. Children’s quizzes, family trails and picnic areas are on the Craigievar to do list, so you won’t have to worry about them getting bored.

For more information visit www.nts.org.uk

East Sussex

Step back into Medieval Britain as you watch the ‘Bodiam Household’ bring history to life in the castle courtyard each day. Look out from the top of the towers to catch the best possible view of Rother Valley, or watch the kids raid the castle’s dressing up box as knights and princesses.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Windsor

We couldn’t do a roundup of Britain’s best castles without including this royal treasure. World famous and breathtakingly beautiful; Windsor Castle is one of those must-have days out every family should enjoy. Let Horace the Tudor and Tommy his pupil take you on a family tour of the castle. Keep your eyes peeled for characters like Gilbert the Grotesque and Tipu the Tiger as you discover the hidden treasures of this historic castle.

For more information visit www.royalcollection.org.uk