6 Castles To Visit In Leicestershire
Have you been to any of the 6 best castles in Leicestershire? If not, what are you waiting for? A day out at one of these awe-inspiring fortifications is not only interesting – it’s also an excellent way of learning about this part of England’s rich history.
There’s lots to see and do at these sites – from exploring the ruins at Ashby to admiring the Japanese gardens at Belvoir – so consider booking a campsite in the Leicestershire area to use a base for a couple of nights away.
Read on to take a journey back in time and learn more about the best castles in Leicestershire.
Belvoir Castle
Belvoir Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Rutland, and the Manners family has lived here for almost 1,000 years. It dates back to the 11th century, and since 1067, four castles have stood on the site – the first of which was a typical motte-and-bailey construction.
Fast forward to today and experts consider Belvoir to be one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in the country. You can see for miles from the north terrace, and on a clear day you might spot Lincolnshire Cathedral, around 30 miles to the north-east of the castle.
While you’re here, stroll around the lovely formal gardens along the terrace and continue into the woodland through the Japanese and Hermit’s gardens. Movie fans will be interested to know that the castle and its surrounding parkland have featured in films such as The Da Vinci Code and Young Victoria.
Belvoir Castle is currently open to the public between 11am and 5pm daily, but do check their website before planning your visit to avoid disappointment. If you’re driving, follow the postcode NG32 1PE towards the castle gardens entrance for visitor car parking.
Want to explore more of the county on foot? Get closer to nature on one of these 7 walks in Leicestershire.
Ashby De La Zouch Castle
This fortification began life as a manor house in the 12th century, before gaining its castle status around 300 years later. It was the purpose-built family seat of Lord Hastings, one of the most powerful men in late 15th-century English politics.
In 1472, he began adding features to the property and surrounding estate, such as the chapel and Hastings Tower. His grand design was never fully realised though, as he was executed by Richard III in 1473 following a sudden fall from grace.
During your visit, make sure to climb the tower – it was very badly damaged during the Civil War but is safe to explore today. Once you’re at the top, the views across the surrounding area are outstanding. To get to the tower, follow the slightly creepy underground passage from the castle kitchen – a walkway that was likely created during the same period.
Take some time to wander around the earthwork remains of part of the castle gardens too, which are thought to date back to around 1530. English Heritage now own and manage the site, which welcomes visitors every day of the week. It’s worth keeping an eye on the website for changes to opening times though.
Are you travelling with kids? Read about these 12 things to do In Leicestershire for some extra family-friendly activities.
Leicester Castle
This 11th-century castle is in the west of Leicester city centre and was originally part of the medieval town defences.
It has played a vital role in the history of the area and over the years, kings have stayed here (namely Edward I in 1300 and Edward II in 1310). In fact, the building became an official royal residence during the reigns of Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI and Edward IV.
The building became a courthouse in the 15th century and a number of parliamentary gatherings as well as court cases were held in the castle’s Great Hall.
There are a few entertaining tours available, such as the ‘Family Trail’ – a 20-minute interactive walk around the ruins that’s designed for children under 12 years old. There’s also the ‘Architecture Tour’, where visitors can explore some of the hidden features of the castle and see how it has changed over time.
Spend a night or two at a campsite close to the city centre.
Rockingham Castle
This former royal castle and hunting lodge is in Rockingham Forest and was built on the orders of William the Conqueror. It was also an important seat of government, and the Great Council of Rockingham was held here in 1095.
There’s an excellent tour available here and visitors can wander through many of the rooms, including the servants’ hall, the old kitchen, the naval lobby and the long gallery. Depending on when you visit, there’s plenty of events and activities hosted on the estate throughout the year too, such as art exhibitions and a special Tudor history day.
The award-winning garden designer Robert Myer was responsible for planning the green space that surrounds the 19th-century rose garden, which is a lovely spot to sit for a moment of peace. There’s also an impressive 400-year-old elephant hedge that divides the 17th-century formal gardens, and the views across the Welland Valley are simply stunning.
There’s an on-site gift shop that sells jewellery, books and toys – and if you’ve not brought lunch with you, take a break under the courtyard canopy at Kavanagh’s tea room.
Again, when you’re planning your visit, take a look at the castle website for admission prices and opening times.
Kirby Muxloe Castle
Remember Lord Hastings? Well, he makes another appearance here, as this fortified mansion was built just for him. Work stopped in 1484 after his death, though, meaning much of the castle remained unfinished.
Today, Kirby Muxloe is owned and managed by English Heritage, and visitors to the site can explore a whole host of historic features including the mysterious moated remains, an exceptional gatehouse (with Hastings’ coat of arms built into the brickwork) and the well-known corner tower.
It’s a brilliant location for a family day out, as there’s a wide selection of facilities – including an adventure playground for the kids.
Newark Castle and Gardens
Last but not least is Newark Castle, which stands on the banks of the River Trent and has been here for almost 900 years. Technically, this site is in Nottinghamshire (so a little further afield) but it’s still worth a trip to see the remaining walls that border the attractive formal gardens.
In 1646, towards the end of the Civil War, the castle was partly destroyed. Its ruins are a reminder of that period’s turbulent history and are full of hidden secrets, which you can learn more about on one of the castle’s regular guided tours.
As with all of these other historic sites, check online for updates about castle opening times before setting off. Before leaving the area, consider pottering around the pretty village of Newark – there’s a couple of museums to explore, as well as independent shops to browse and some lovely restaurants.
Escape for a few nights at a campsite near Newark.
Still keen to see some more of the county? Then visit one of the parks in Leicestershire.