5 fantastic castles in Norfolk

So, you’re all settled in to your camping holiday, you’ve explored the local towns, spent enough times relaxing and the urge to explore has kicked in. Today we’re suggesting you visit a castle! For those of you camping in the East of England, we’ve listed 5 of the best castles in Norfolk.

1 Norwich Castle

Standing firm in the centre of Norwich for 900 years, this castle has become a famous landmark and a great day out. Originally built by the Normans as a palace, Norwich Castle now takes pride of place as one of the best and most educational museums and art galleries in Norfolk. You can explore the dungeons and the battlements and take a walk around the museum exhibits, soaking up the history as you go. There are plenty of interesting things to see here, from Norwich Civic Regalia to a Viking Gallery, and even an Egyptian tomb. Tickets cost £7 per adult and £4.90 per child.

And whilst in Norwich, history fans might want to visit the iconic Norwich Cathedral or take in the medieval splendour at the Guildhall. All three sites are within 20 minutes walking distance of each other, so it’s easy to spend the day in this great city.

2 Baconsthorpe Castle

The best ruins on show in Norfolk can be found at Baconsthorpe. The amazing ruins of Baconsthorpe Castle were once a fortified manor house with a moat. These impressive 15th Century ruins and the peaceful surrounding grounds make a great day out for all. And even better, they are absolutely free! This English Heritage property is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable picnic spot, or those who fancy exploring an unusual outdoor historical site.

And if you enjoy the ruins of Baconsthorpe, you could also give Weeting Castle a go. This ruined castle is the remains of a 12th century manor house which once stood tall with a timber roof.

3 Castle Rising Castle

From Castle ruins, to one of the best preserved keeps in the whole of England! Located 4 miles north of the popular tourist town of King’s Lynn, Castle Rising is impressive inside and out. The inside stonework is still largely intact and within the inner bailey you will find the remains of a Norman church. One for fans of impressive landscapes, this castle is perched amidst a vast earthwork site, one of the main reasons it remains so memorable and picturesque today.

Adult tickets cost £4, and child tickets cost £2.50 – family tickets are available for a very reasonable £12. The site is open 10 – 4 daily between Wednesday and Sunday.

4 Castle Acre

Castle Acre is a wonderful 11th century castle and Bailey Gate. The stone buildings are still remarkably well-kept and open to visitors all year round. Also of interest here are the magnifiscent ruins of Castle Acre Priory which is one of the best preserved monastic sites in the UK. The village here, which takes its name from the castle, boasts a rich history dating back to the Normans, and it’s worth spending an afternoon exploring here.

The Castle and Gate are free to visit and the Priory costs £5.80 for adults and £3.50 for children over 5.

5 Caister Castle

Caister is a 15th-century castle, just north of Great Yarmouth. What makes this Castle different to the others on this list is that today it is a Motor Museum. The Castle still has a 90 foot tower which you can climb, and many other interesting sections which you can explore, but the Motor museum is what really appeals. You’ll find a huge and wonderful variety of rare and classic cars and motorcycles here.

The castle and museum are open daily 10am – 4.30pm from May – September, excluding Saturdays. Tickets cost adults £10.50, and children between 5 -15 pay £5. It’s worth noting the family ticket costs £28.

So, whether you feel like roaming through woodlands and stone ruins, wandering the halls of a manor like a royal of old, or standing at the battlements like a soldier, there’s fun to be had for everyone in the castles of Norfolk. Enjoy exploring…