Britain – King of Castles

Castles, Palaces and Stately Homes

An Englishman’s home may well be his castle, but it is also surely his palace and his stately home if the architectural legacy we have been left is anything to go by. Fortified manors, Palladian mansions and baronial halls up and down the land are filled with treasures and teeming with tales to tell. Leave Scotland and Wales off the itinerary at your peril.

Hever Castle
Romantic 13th century double moated castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Magnificently furnished interiors, with fine furniture, tapestries, paintings and antiques.  Glorious award winning gardens and a full programme of special events.
Hever Castle, near Edenbridge, Kent; tel: (01732) 865224; www.hevercastle.co.uk.

Sudeley Castle
Sudeley is steeped in history and was once the home of Catherine Parr. Experience magnificent award winning gardens, private apartment tours and fascinating exhibitions.
Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire; tel: (01242) 602308; www.sudeleycastle.co.uk.

Belvoir Castle
Enjoy spectacular views and glorious gardens and explore this magical castle filled with stunning art, textiles and furniture. Weekly events range from exciting military reenactments to expert guided tours.
Belvoir Castle, Grantham, Leicestershire; tel: (01476) 871002; www.belvoircastle.com.

Pembroke Castle
With its mazes of tunnels, passageways and stairs, mighty Pembroke Castle in Wales is as intriguing on the inside as it looks from the exterior. This fine riverside fortress was the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty, and is now a fantastic visitor attraction.
Pembroke, Pembrokeshire; tel: (01646) 684585; www.pembroke-castle.co.uk.

Scottish Clans and Castles
Formed six years ago, Highland-based Scottish Clans and Castles specialise in providing perfectly tailored holidays featuring Scotland’s castles, culture and clan lands.
Scottish Clans and Castles Ltd, The Old Stables, Househill, Nairn IV12 5RY; tel (01667) 456942; e-mail info@clansandcastles.com.

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