Top 6 Castles around Sherbourne
Castles around Sherbourne offer a glimpse into centuries of English history, with 6 castles to explore. The region is known for its historic architecture and significant heritage sites. Sherbourne features both medieval ruins and well-preserved Tudor mansions. These sites provide opportunities for historical exploration and walks through landscaped grounds.
Best castles around Sherbourne
- The most popular castles is Kenilworth Castle, a castle that features an impressive 12th-century Norman keep. This defensive powerhouse was built three stories high with walls…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Kenilworth Castle Ruins
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Kenilworth Castle
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Baddesley Clinton Manor House and Gardens
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Tiltyard Dam at Kenilworth Castle
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Tudor Gatehouse, Charlecote
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The Gatehouse is the best example of Tudor architecture at Charlecote. Most of the brick and stonework is more than 400 years old. It was built for …
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Tips from the Community
The area surrounding Castle Green offers picturesque views of the castle ruins and a greenery for visitors interested in England's rich history and architecture
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The castle was founded after the Norman Conquest of 1066; with development through to the Tudor period. It has been described by the architectural historian Anthony Emery as "the finest surviving example of a semi-royal palace of the later middle ages, significant for its scale, form and quality of workmanship". Kenilworth played an important historical role: it was the subject of the six-month-long siege of Kenilworth in 1266, thought to be the longest siege in medieval English history, and formed a base for Lancastrian operations in the Wars of the Roses. Kenilworth was the scene of the removal of Edward II from the English throne, the perceived French insult to Henry V in 1414 of a gift of tennis balls (said by John Strecche to have prompted the campaign that led to the Battle of Agincourt), and the Earl of Leicester's lavish reception of Elizabeth I in 1575. It has been described as "one of two major castles in Britain which may be classified as water-castles or lake-fortresses...
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Robert Langham (C16) - "The Castle has the name of Killingwoorth, but if truth grounded upon faithful story, Kenelwoorth [Kenilworth]. It stands in Warwickshire, a 74 mile North-West from London, and as it were in the navel of England, four mile somewhat South from Coventry a proper city, and a like distance from Warwick, a fair Shire town on the North. In air sweet and wholesome, raised on an easy-mounted hill, is set evenly coasted with the front straight into the East, has the tenants and town about it, that pleasantly shifts from dale to hill, sundry wherewith sweet springs burst forth; and is so plentiful and well sorted on every side into arable, meadow, pasture, wood, water, and good air, as it appears to have need of nothing that may pertain to living or pleasure."
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The dam was probably constructed in three phases; initially circa 1125, then subsequently raised by King John and lastly the western lane and bridge possibly 17th century. It is not known when the castle’s great defensive lake, created by the dam, was first called a Mere nor when the breach, shown here being repaired in 1964, was first called Hawkesworth’s Gap. At the end of the Civil War in 1649, Cromwell’s Parliamentarians were determined to ensure that the former Royalist strongholds would never again provide a safe haven for those who opposed the new republican parliament’s powers. So, Colonel Joseph Hawkesworth, MP was appointed to ‘slight’ or damage the castle beyond repair and it is said he breached the Tiltyard to drain the mere as part of the slighting.
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Drop down and corner past a medieval castle. Pretty cool.
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Although much of it is still in ruins, it is definitely worth the visit, very accessible from the centre and with a good car park (paid) next to it. The castle, which was built between the beginning of Norman rule in England and the Tudor period, played a significant role in history.
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Nice Circular Walk using a mixture of Canal towpath fieldpaths and minor link roads.
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One of the finest examples of a semi-royal palace of the later middle ages. Built over 900 years ago the castle has survived a six month siege, it was an important base in the War of the Roses and hosted queen Elizabeth 1st. Today it's managed by English Heritage and hosts jousts and re-enactments as well as themed days. Non members pay entry. Café and facilities on site. Open 10:00 - 17:00 mon to fri.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Sherbourne?
The Sherbourne area offers a diverse range of castles, from the extensive medieval ruins of Sherborne Old Castle to the grand 16th-century Tudor mansion of Sherborne Castle. You can also find impressive sites like Kenilworth Castle, known for its 12th-century Norman keep, and the moated Baddesley Clinton Manor House and Gardens.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Sherbourne?
Yes, several castles in the wider Sherbourne area are family-friendly. Kenilworth Castle and Baddesley Clinton Manor House and Gardens are both categorized as family-friendly. Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) also hosts various events throughout the year, including jousting tournaments, which are popular with families.
Can I bring my dog to the castles around Sherbourne?
Sherborne Old Castle, an English Heritage site, welcomes dogs on leads in its grounds, making it suitable for walks with your canine companion. For other castles, it's advisable to check their specific pet policies before visiting.
What kind of historical insights do the castles offer?
The castles provide deep historical insights. Sherborne Old Castle showcases medieval military architecture and its role in the English Civil War. Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) offers a glimpse into Tudor and Jacobean life, with collections spanning 400 years of English history, including connections to Sir Walter Raleigh and the Digby family. Other sites like Kenilworth Castle also have rich histories, including hosting Queen Elizabeth I.
Are there gardens or natural features to explore at these castles?
Absolutely. Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) boasts magnificent 42-acre English Landscape Gardens designed by Capability Brown, featuring a 50-acre lake. Baddesley Clinton Manor House and Gardens also offers beautiful gardens to explore. The ruins of Sherborne Old Castle are set within atmospheric grounds perfect for peaceful walks.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles?
The region around Sherbourne offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, easy hikes, and road cycling routes. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'Thomas Oken Tea Rooms – Warwick Castle Mound loop' or road cycling routes such as the 'Quiet Country Road Near A429 loop'. You can explore more options on the Running Trails around Sherbourne, Easy hikes around Sherbourne, and Road Cycling Routes around Sherbourne guide pages.
How long should I plan for a visit to the castles?
For Sherborne Old Castle, you might spend 1-2 hours exploring the ruins and grounds. Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) typically requires 2-4 hours to tour the mansion, gardens, and lake. For larger sites like Kenilworth Castle, a half-day or more is recommended to fully appreciate its history and extensive grounds.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles?
Spring and summer are generally ideal for visiting, as the gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor ruins and grounds. Many castles also host special events during these seasons. However, autumn offers beautiful foliage, and some sites remain open for atmospheric winter visits, often with fewer crowds.
Are there accessible options for visitors with mobility challenges?
Accessibility varies by site. Sherborne Old Castle, being extensive ruins, may have uneven terrain. Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) offers some accessible routes within its gardens and ground floor. For specific accessibility details, it's best to check the official websites for Sherborne Old Castle (English Heritage) and Sherborne Castle directly before your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and architectural grandeur. For instance, the impressive 12th-century Norman keep at Kenilworth Castle is a dominant feature, and the moated setting of Baddesley Clinton Manor House is highly regarded. The beautiful Capability Brown gardens at Sherborne Castle and the atmospheric medieval ruins of Sherborne Old Castle also receive high praise.
Where can I find parking for the castles?
Most major castles, including Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) and Sherborne Old Castle, provide dedicated visitor parking facilities on-site or nearby. For specific details on parking locations and any associated fees, it is always best to consult the individual castle's official website prior to your visit.
Are there any unique historical features to look out for?
Yes, many. At Sherborne Old Castle, look for the ruins of the great tower and the strong southwest gatehouse. Sherborne Castle (the New Castle) features Raleigh's kitchen and a family museum. Tiltyard Dam at Kenilworth Castle is a historical site that was part of the castle's great defensive lake, constructed around 1125.
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