5 unforgettable castles in Shropshire

Shropshire is a wonderful county to visit for exploring a bit of history and thanks to its volatile past, there are over 30 castles and ruins to be found here. Here are our 5 favourite castles in Shropshire that are sure to impress, whether you’re looking for a family day out, searching for some spooky tales or wanting to wander some beautiful ruins.

1. Stokesay Castle

Stokesay Castle is possibly the best preserved medieval castle in England. Lying in the beautiful southern Shropshire countryside near the Welsh Border, this fortified manor house has a very old and unique timber structure. There is a stunning great hall unaltered since 1291 and some impressive carvings, tile work and wall paintings to admire. You can take a complimentary audio tour to learn about this castle’s fascinating history and don’t miss a gentle stroll around the moat. Adult tickets are £6.50 and children are £3.70.

2. Powis Castle

The medieval fortress of Powis Castle near Welshpool is a great place to spend a day. Built around 1200, the castle is home to a wonderful collection of treasures and artefacts including textiles, ivory and jade from India, tapestries and weapons spanning from the 17th to 19th centuries. You can also visit the breath-taking, award-winning 300 year old garden made up of terraces, statues and an orangery influenced by French and Italian design. Admission for an adult is £13 and a child is £6.50.

3. Ludlow Castle

Ludlow Castle is a fabulous medieval ruin located right in the heart of the picturesque market town of Ludlow. You can walk up the stairs from the old keep to the turrets to get a breath-taking view of the town and countryside below. Inside, some of the original fireplaces and doorways remain and it is easy to imagine how this castle would have once looked. Adult entrance fees are £5 and children are £2.50 and we recommend that you wear suitable footwear as the grounds of the castle can get very muddy on a wet day.

4. Shrewsbury Castle

Shrewsbury Castle is a striking red sandstone building built in 1070 on the site of an Anglo-Saxon fortification. A highlight here is the fantastic Regimental Museum housing a large collection of weapons, pictures, medals, uniforms and other memorabilia from the 1700’s right to the present day - look out for a lock of Napoleon’s hair! The castle is small and has some lovely original features and a pleasant garden full of flowers in the spring and summer. If you climb the stairs to Laura’s Tower on the motte, you get a wonderful view of the surroundings. Adult admission is £2.50 and under 18’s go free.

5. Whittington Castle

Whittington Castle near the town of Oswestry is another impressive ruin with a fascinating history. Dating back to 1222, this castle is associated with many a tale of romance and warfare, which is perhaps the reason for a number of ghostly sightings in its grounds. Reports include a hooded figure near the gateway and the ghostly faces of children peeking out of one of the upstairs windows! Despite being haunted, this picturesque castle with its swans and ducks on the water of the moat is sure to delight those looking for a little tranquillity as well as thrill those with a taste for the paranormal. Entry to the castle is free.

Shropshire is home to some of the best castles in the UK each offering something special to their visitors. Packed with history, impressive architecture and set in stunning scenery, these castles offer a brilliant glimpse into Britain’s dramatic past.