The Best Abandoned Castles in the UK

“Delve into incredible history and discover true peace and quiet as you explore these haunting castle ruins. Here is our list of 10 of the best abandoned castles in the UK.

The Best Abandoned Castles in the UK
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Dunnottar Castle, Scotland
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Nestled on a rocky headland 50m above the icy crashing waters of the North Sea, ruins rarely come as dramatic as Dunnottar Castle. Once home to the Earls Marischal, one of the most powerful families in Scotland, the site is believed to date back to the Early Middle Ages. Dunnottar has played a prominent role in Scottish history and was where the Scottish Crown Jewels were hidden from Oliver Cromwell’s army in the 17^th century.

Goodrich Castle, Herefordshire
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Although nature has had its way with the remains of Goodrich Castle, the ruins still stand proudly overlooking the River Wye. The castle is said to date back to the 11^th century, although some Victorian historians believe it dates back even further, and was once part of a series of Saxon fortifications along the Welsh border. Rumour has it three ghosts wander the ruins – an Irish prisoner who died trying to escape, and a couple from conflicting sides of the English Civil War who perished in a flash flood while attempting to elope.

Castell y Bere, Wales
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These rarely-visited remains, found on the southern boundary of Snowdonia National Park, were originally built in the 12^th century as a stronghold to guard Welsh princes against Norman invasion. The views from the ruins are quite something given they are perched on a steep plateau, so pack a picnic and enjoy vistas of Cadr Idris mountain and the village of Abergynolwyn.

Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland
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This abandoned castle overlooking the sands of Northumberland’s Embleton Bay, may be one of the largest castles in Northern England, but is often entirely deserted. The 14^th century structure has a fascinating history, which includes being a strategic stronghold in the War of the Roses, and an essential defense point against German invasion in the Second World War. From the ruins, visitors enjoy sensational views of the coast, and may even spot Birds of Prey circling above. Let’s just hope you don’t chance upon the 16^th century knight who is said to haunt the ruins…

Kilchurn Castle, Scotland
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Journey ninety minutes’ drive north of Glasgow and through the incredible scenery of Loch Lomond National Park, to discover one of ‘Britain’s best kept secrets’. Perched on a rocky peninsula, overlooking the waters of the aptly-named Loch Awe, are the remains of 15^th century Kilchurn Castle, which was once home to the Campbell Clan. Often shrouded in mist, or reflected in the clear waters, Kilchurn’s beauty is undeniable.

Aberlleiniog Castle, Wales
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This hidden gem on Wales’ Isle of Anglesey was erected between 1080 and 1099 by the 1^st Earl of Chester, Hugh D’Avranches – who was under strict instructions from William the Conqueror to keep the Welsh out of England. The Earl was later driven out by a determined Welsh army in a siege that claimed the lives of over 100 Norman defenders.

Odiham Castle, Hampshire
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King John built this unusual castle in the early 13^th century. Despite its relatively modest size, it has been involved in many a siege – including one which lasted two weeks during the First Baron’s War, and resulted in it being captured by the French. The castle has changed hands multiple times, hosted Parliament at least once, and has been used as a hunting lodge by many a Royal. It was declared a ruin in 1605 but its intriguing remains still stand proudly today.

Monea Castle, Northern Ireland
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The ruins of Monea Castle are nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland’s gorgeous countryside. The castle was originally built as the residence for the Irish Maguire family, but during the plantation era, when Englishmen were planted across the country to cement English occupation, the castle was given to the Archbishop of Cashel. Despite being attacked during the Irish Rebellion of 1641, the ruins are almost entirely intact, giving visitors a rare chance to understand what castle life would have been like in the 17th century.

Old Castle, Northern Ireland
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Located on the banks of Upper Lough Erne and surrounded by almost 2,000 acres of woodland, visitors to Old Castle will feel as though they’ve stepped into the pages of a fairytale. Although the main structure was built in 1820 and remains the home of the Earls of Erne, the ruins of the old castle, including a tower house, date back to the early 17^th century. Also, nearby are an incredible pair of conjoined Yew Trees, which date back to 1739 and made it to the list of ‘Greatest British Trees’, which was created to mark the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.

Candleston Castle, Wales
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Often overshadowed by its neighbour, Ogmore Castle, Candleston is a crumbling 14^th century manor house in the stunning Vale of Glamorgan. The forlorn yet impressive ruins are hidden in the woods at the edge of Merthyr Mawr National Nature Reserve and are slowly being reclaimed by nature. Its state of disrepair makes it all the more alluring for peaceful wandering away from any crowds.

Where do you like to go to get away from it all? The UK has so many wonderful off the beaten track spots, it’s tricky to pick just one! You can also check out our Explore by Expedia homepage for more inspiration, or check out these hidden beaches in the UK.”