Castles Near London: Historic Fortresses You Can Visit in a Day

When you think of castles near London, fortified stone structures built for defense, royalty, and power across England. Also known as medieval strongholds, these sites aren’t just tourist stops—they’re living pieces of history that shaped the nation. You don’t need to travel far. Some of the most impressive castles in the UK sit within an hour’s train ride from central London, making them perfect for a full day out without the hassle of overnight stays.

Take Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, still used by the royal family. It’s just 20 minutes by train from Paddington, and you can walk through state apartments, see St. George’s Chapel, and even spot the Changing of the Guard. Then there’s Hampton Court Palace, a Tudor masterpiece built by Cardinal Wolsey and later expanded by Henry VIII, with its famous maze, gardens, and ghost stories. Both feel worlds away from the city, even though you’re still in Greater London’s orbit.

For something older and wilder, head to Leeds Castle, a moated castle in Kent that looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale. Or try Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, with its beautiful gardens and intimate atmosphere. These aren’t just ruins—they’re places where you can touch the walls, walk the same paths as kings and queens, and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

What makes these castles special isn’t just their age. It’s how they connect to real stories—battles, betrayals, love affairs, and power struggles. You’ll find that most of them have guided tours that don’t feel like lectures, but like someone telling you secrets over tea. And unlike crowded museums, many of these sites still feel quiet and personal, especially on weekdays.

And you don’t need a car. Most are easily reachable by train, with clear signs once you get off. Some even offer combined tickets with nearby attractions—like the Roman ruins at St. Albans or the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, which you’ll also find covered in the posts below.

Below, you’ll find real, practical guides to visiting these places—when to go, how to save money, where to eat nearby, and what most tourists miss. No fluff. Just what works if you’re short on time but want to walk through history without feeling rushed.