The Castles That Helped Shape the Monarchy

Britain is well-known around the world for its castles and monarchy. In fact, it is one of the main reasons for tourism in the country. Castles have always been closely linked with power and the Kings and Queens of old. They are a status symbol, a sign of power and affluence, but also strategically placed and key to the historical protection of the country.

The ability to visit a castle and walk in the footsteps of ancient royalty is interesting, enchanting, and inspiring, and the UK has a plethora of castles to choose from. They all play their unique part in the history of the country and have shaped the monarchy along the way.  

Rich With History, These Castles Helped Shape the Monarchy

Whether you have a particular interest in history, or just want to marvel at how ancient Kings and Queens lived, a visit to a castle is an excellent experience for families and individuals alike. Some of the most important castles in the history of the monarchy include:

Alnwick Castle

The Medieval Alnwick Castle is found in Northumberland, near the east coast of England. It played a major part in the border wars between England and Wales And was initially constructed in 1093 to guard the road that crossed the River Aln. The castle was used to protect Henry II’s England from attack from William the Lion (the King of Scotland) in 1173 and 1174.

Alnwick Castle has been owned by the Percy family for over 700 years, who still live there today, although there are some areas of the castle that are open to the public. The castle has also been used for some scenes in the Harry Potter films, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, and Downton Abbey and is well worth a visit.

Goodrich Castle

The 11^th Century, medieval Goodrich Castle is located on the border between England and Wales, close to Cheltenham and Hereford, in the Wye Valley. The River Wye was an important river in the Norman times and the reason why several Normal castles were constructed in the area. Nevertheless, Goodrich Castle is one of the best-preserved of all of the medieval castles in Britain.

Later, in 1646, the castle played a prominent part in the British Civil War where it was the scene of a violent siege lasting two months.

Sissinghurst Castle

Sissinghurst Castle in Kent’s earliest known owners were the Saxinhersts – from whom the castle gets its name, but the story of its origin is murky. It is believed that Edward I stayed there at some point, but its story really gets going when the Tudor buildings of the castle were used to house thousands of French sailors who had been captured during the Seven Years' War (between 1756 and 1763).

It has been recorded that the Tudor buildings were subsequently replaced by a majestic manor by Elizabeth I. Now, Sissinghurst Castle Gardens are beautifully kept, owned by the National Trust, and open for visitors to enjoy.

Arundel Castle

West Sussex’s Arundel Castle was originally constructed in 1067. The medieval castle has been through a variety of different owners, having been looked after by royalty and noblemen such as the Duke of Norfolk and the Howard family.

Arundel Castle has endured two sieges – one of which was during the First Civil War when it was badly damaged. Another siege took place in 1138 when Matilda was given refuge by William de Albini at Arundel Castle.

In 1846, Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert visited Arundel Castle, where they stayed for a few days.

Arundel Castle has a dry moat, impressive buildings, portraits, and furniture that were uniquely commissioned for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and is steeped in royal and political history.

Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle played a prominent part in the First and Second World Wars – housing a hospital for wounded soldiers during the First World War, and as a home for evacuated children during the Second World War.

Initially a medieval palace, Highclere Castle in Hampshire is probably better known as being the residence of Downton Abbey’s Crawley family. But it also has an interesting real-life history. It was transformed from a medieval palace to the magnificent building that it is today in the mid-19^th century by Sir Charles Barry).

However, before this, history tells us that Highclere Castle was confiscated from the church during the Protestant Reformation in 1551 and has housed many friends of the monarchy over the years.

You can now walk the corridors of this historical castle, as well as enjoy the Capability Brown-designed gardens when you visit.

Visit the Best British Castles with Just Go! Holidays

When it comes to royalty, stately homes, and castles, nowhere does it better than the UK. From the residencies of wealthy historic politicians to the scene of sieges and battles, our castles have it all.

So, why not have a look through our British castle trips and historic houses to discover which one you will find most interesting?