There are plenty of castles to visit with kids and they make for a fun-fuelled family day out. We’re fortunate enough to have over 4,000 castles dotted across the UK, with the oldest being from the 11th century!
Whether you’re looking for something to do on the weekend or during the school holidays, we have plenty of castles to choose from. From medieval moats to glorious gardens, you can quickly transport your little ones into the world of their favourite fairytale.
Here are six of our favourite UK castles to visit with kids. They feature fun-filled activities, buckets of history and magical moments.
Six Castles to Visit with Kids
If you’re on the search for an enchanting castle with more activities than you know what to do with, take a trip to Warwick Castle. This medieval castle was originally built in 1068 and is jam-packed with history.
Alongside the impressive castle, there are also spectacular attractions and live entertainment throughout the year. This includes the Horrible Histories Maze, Dragon Slaying shows and even live jousting events. Fellow princesses and brave knights can also explore the Princess Tower at Warwick Castle and help save Princess Eve!
Warwick Castle is open daily from the 20th January 2024 (10am – 4pm). Pre-booked ticket prices start at £22.
2. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Alnwick Castle is one of the most iconic locations in Britain and you’re probably more familiar with it than you think. The castle has been featured in Downton Abbey, Transformers: The Last Knight and Robin Hood. Your kids might even recognise it as one of the filming locations of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films!
If you have an aspiring witch or wizard in your mitts, you can sign them up for a Broomstick Training session. There they will master the basics of broomsticks in the very same spot where Harry Potter had his first flying lesson!
The castle has belonged to the Percy family for over 700 years and remains the family home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Throughout the year, they put on lots of activities including jester shows, the Dragon Quest and a Wizarding Week in the summer.
Alnwick Castle is open daily from 10am – 5.30pm. Pre-booked ticket prices start at £19.50 for adults and £10.25 for children under 16. Children under four are free.
3. Leeds Castle, Kent
Budding knights and princesses will feel at home in Leeds Castle as it was once home to King Henry VIII. You and your family can immerse yourselves in many fun activities such as the Queens with Means attraction, the Knights’ Stronghold Playground and explore the Birds of Prey Centre.
Getting around Leeds Castle is as easy as pie. You can ride in style on Elsie the Castle Train, take to the water on the Black Swan Ferry or explore one of the circular walking routes too.
If you’re looking for castles to visit with kids that are also suitable for a getaway, look no further than Leeds Castle. The estate offers you plenty of accommodation fit for a princess, such as glamping with four-poster beds to holiday cottages. Plus, all stays include complimentary access to the castle and its grounds.
Leeds Castle is open daily from 10am – 5pm. Pre-booked ticket prices start at £30 for adults and £22.50 for children.
4. Buckingham Palace, London
Discover the home of true royalty by taking a trip to Buckingham Palace. Whilst it’s not one of the traditional castles to visit with kids, it is home to the King of England and is one of few working royal palaces in the UK.
You will be able to watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore the spectacular State Rooms. Your little ones will be entertained by the multimedia tour and fun activities in the gardens. Plus, the highlights for children on their website make for a brilliant treasure hunt!
Buckingham Palace is a working royal palace and only open on selected dates. We advise you to check online and pre-book your tickets to ensure entry.
5. Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh
There aren’t many sights like Edinburgh Castle. This breathtaking fortress stands on the plug of a volcano that’s believed to be over 350 million years old.
The castle itself has also had a thrilling history as a military fortress, royal residence and a prison of war. As you and your family visit this Scottish landmark, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of soldiers, royalty and pirates!
Throughout the day your kids can go on a fact-finding mission with the Edinburgh Castle Explorer Quiz and find secrets in the strangest places. Of course, there is also the famous One o’clock Gun that’s fired throughout the week and the priceless Honours of Scotland are on display too.
Edinburgh Castle is open daily from 9.30am – 5pm. Pre-booked ticket prices start at £19.50 for adults and £11.40 for children aged 7-15. Children under seven are free.
6. Castell Coch, Cardiff
Let your little ones experience a whole new world in Castell Coch. This real-life fairy tale castle was built in the Victorian era but inspired by the Middle Ages. You and your family can wander around this stunning location and soak in the impressive interior.
You’ll also find an interactive room that’s perfect for helping your kids learn about the castle. Afterwards, you can capture family photos around the grounds and enjoy family-friendly woodland walks.
Castell Coch is open daily. We advise you to look online for opening times as they operate seasonally. Ticket prices start at £8.70 for adults and £6.10 for children. Children under five are free.
Each castle on our list offers you plenty of things to do. From reenacting their favourite Disney film to getting hands-on in a live demonstration, your kids will have a great time. If you’re interested in making it a day of it and staying over, make sure to check out our StayPlay-approved accommodation.
We hope our list of UK castles for kids will help you and your family have a magical experience.