4 amazing castles in Gloucestershire

Castles have a majestic, mysterious and romantic appeal that traverses time and captures the imagination of both children and adults. Anyone interested in visiting one or more castles in Gloucestershire is in for a treat as there are several superb castles to discover here. We have picked our 4 favourite castles to get you started…

Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle is an imposing and regal building with over eight centuries of history behind it. The castle dates from the 12th century and contains a number of historical treasures such as a bedspread that belonged to Queen Elizabeth I and a cabin chest that belonged to Francis Drake.

An abundance of intriguing sights can be seen during a castle tour. These range from the 12th century castle keep to painting galleries, drawing rooms, a beer cellar, as well as the great hall and armoury. Outside there is plenty to see as well. A tropical butterfly house contains around 42 species of exotic butterflies for visitors to see, while the gardens and grounds provide picturesque spaces for outdoor exploring.

Entry to the castle, gardens and butterfly house is £10 per adult and £5.50 per child aged 4 to 16.

Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle is located near Winchcombe in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the beautiful castle ruins and gardens themselves are equally attractive. Sudeley is the only private English castle with a queen buried within its grounds, namely Katherine Parr who was Henry VIII’s final wife.

In addition to exploring the castle ruins, visitors can explore a 15th century church and stop by the pheasantry which is home to a number of rare and endangered birds. There is also an adventure playground for kids. One of the highlights of a visit to Sudeley Castle are the award-winning gardens. There are nine diverse gardens that are all worth discovering at a leisurely pace.

Tickets for adults cost £14 and tickets for children aged 5 to 15 cost £5.

Goodrich Castle

Though it is now ruins, Goodrich Castle is still an impressive sight with its commanding position on a wooded hill and it provides plenty to entice visitors.

Construction of the castle started in the late 11th century and today it features one of the most complete surviving sets of medieval domestic structures in any of England’s castles. Visitors can enjoy a free audio tour as they discover the likes of the mortar that destroyed the castle, Civil War cannonballs, as well as great views from the battlements. There is also an exhibition in the visitor centre which provides insight into the castle from the 11th to 17th centuries.

Access to Goodrich Castle costs £6.20 per adult and £3.70 for children aged 5 to 15.

St Briavels Castle

St Briavels Castle used to protect a crossbow bolt factory and features a 13th century gatehouse. This castle is a little bit different: no longer required as a defensive structure, nowadays the castle is used as a YHA hostel. It is well worth popping by to take a look at this interesting building and, if you are keen to explore the area, the surrounding landscapes are great for discovering on foot.

Touch history today

These striking castles in Gloucestershire offer a wonderful day out, providing the opportunity to learn about the past while being surrounded by a physical example that makes the history that much more engaging and tangible. From incredible ruins to complete and lavish interiors, as well as engaging grounds, gardens and animal attractions to experience, a visit to any of these Gloucestershire castles will captivate young and old alike.