Discover Eight Remarkable CastleS Offering a Free Visit Across England and the United Kingdom
Discover the rich history of some of the best castles in Scotland, England, and Wales that offer free entry during special events.
England
One such opportunity is the annual Heritage Open Days festival, which provides free access to various historic sites across the UK, including some English castles and historic buildings. While many English castles charge admission, this festival offers a unique chance to visit iconic sites like HMS Wellington for free.
Outside of this festival, many English castles require paid entry, but some offers and free activities occur during festivals. The festival includes sites beyond castles, providing a diverse range of historical experiences.
Scotland
In Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh allows free entry to parts of this historic royal residence during the Heritage Open Days in September. Other famous Scottish castles, like Edinburgh Castle, may charge admission, but exploring castle grounds or heritage events can provide free access during specific open days.
Wales
Wales boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of castles, many of which date back to Norman and Edward I's campaigns. Well-known castles such as Caernarfon Castle, Conwy Castle, Cardiff Castle, Caerphilly Castle, and Chepstow Castle are popular, although they generally charge admission.
However, Penrhyn Castle and Garden provide free entry during Heritage Open Days, and events during this festival can grant free access to some of these remarkable Welsh castles or their grounds.
Important Notes
Free entry to castles is not permanent; it mainly occurs during organized festivals like the Heritage Open Days, which require checking exact dates and times and often advance booking. Many iconic castles have fees outside these events, but the festival allows a unique chance to visit for free and enjoy tours and activities.
Wales’s vast number of castles means some smaller or lesser-known sites may occasionally allow free access or have no entry fees, especially smaller ruins or public grounds.
Notable Castles
- Harlech Castle in Wales is one of the most important castles in Britain, renowned for its medieval military architecture.
- Peveril Castle in England, located in the Peak District, was built by William Peveril in 1153.
- Liverpool Castle in England was a medieval fortification built by King John to protect against Scottish raids, but it is now in ruins, making it a lovely walk and a great place for stretching your legs.
- Kilchurn Castle in Scotland is the oldest castle in Scotland, built in about 1450, and has been passed down through four generations of the Campbell family.
- Alnwick Castle in England is one of the largest inhabited castles in England and has been the setting for several films, including Harry Potter and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
- Eye Castle in England has been recently restored and revamped, opening new areas to explore. The original drawbridge can be seen, and there are remains of a medieval fishpond. Toilets and parking are close by, and a viewing platform offers wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.
- Belfast Castle in Northern Ireland was destroyed by fire in 1806 and was later restored in 1980. It stands proud on the grounds of Cave Hill Country Park, overlooking the city.
In summary, for free castle visits, the Heritage Open Days in September is the best opportunity to explore significant castles and historic sites free across Scotland, England, and Wales, including notable places such as Holyroodhouse (Scotland) and Penrhyn Castle (Wales). For year-round visits, most famous castles require paid admission, especially in England and Wales, though some public castle ruins or parks may have no charge.
