Looking for family-friendly castles to enchant the kids and interest the grownups? From soaring turrets to spooky dungeons, ruined ramparts to sea-swept keeps, here are ten of Britain’s loveliest castles that make for great family days out.

1. Caernarfon Castle (Wales)

Where: Caernarfon, Gwynedd
Why we love it: Kids can climb the towers, explore the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum, and enjoy views across the Menai Straits.
History: Built by Edward I in the 13th century as a show of power in Wales.
Admission: Adult ~ £15.20, Child (5-17) ~ £10.60, Family ~ £48.70. (Cadw)

2. Bamburgh Castle (Northumberland, England)

Where: Northumberland coast
Why we love it: Dramatic sea views, museum collections, and beach access make it a magical spot for children.
History: A Norman stronghold, restored in the Victorian era by Lord Armstrong.
Admission: Adult ~ £18.75, Child (5-16) ~ £9.40, Family ~ £55. (Bamburgh Castle)

3. Alnwick Castle (Northumberland, England)

Where: Alnwick
Why we love it: Famous as a Harry Potter filming location, with dragon quests, dressing up, and gardens to explore.
History: Seat of the Percy family, parts dating back to Norman times.
Admission: Adult ~ £21.55, Child (5-16) ~ £11.35. Under-4s free. (Alnwick Castle)

4. Edinburgh Castle (Scotland)

Where: Edinburgh
Why we love it: Crown jewels, cannons, and the daily One O’Clock Gun — plenty to keep little ones engaged.
History: A royal and military fortress since the 12th century, central to Scottish history.
Admission: Adult ~ £28, Child ~ £21. Family tickets available. (Edinburgh Castle)

5. Warwick Castle (Warwickshire, England)

Where: Warwick
Why we love it: Live shows, falconry, and spooky dungeons bring history alive for families.
History: Originally built in 1068, it has stood through centuries of battles and intrigue.
Admission: Day tickets from around £34-£45 if booked online. (Warwick Castle)

6. Pembroke Castle (Wales)

Where: Pembrokeshire
Why we love it: Explore the vast gatehouse and towers with sweeping views over town and river.
History: Founded in the 11th century, linked with William Marshal and Tudor history.
Admission: Adult £10, Child (3-15) £7, under-3s free. (Pembroke Castle)

7. Stirling Castle (Scotland)

Where: Stirling
Why we love it: Stunning Renaissance halls, painted ceilings, and panoramic views of the Highlands.
History: A stronghold of Scottish kings and queens, and central to key battles.
Admission: Adult £16.50, Child £10, Family tickets around £50-£60. (Stirling Castle)

8. Kidwelly Castle (Wales)

Where: Carmarthenshire
Why we love it: Tower climbing and open countryside views make it a favourite for explorers.
History: A Norman castle later involved in Welsh uprisings, partly ruined but atmospheric.
Admission: Family ticket from £24. (Kidwelly Castle)

9. Rochester Castle (Kent, England)

Where: Rochester
Why we love it: One of the tallest keeps in England, with open lawns perfect for play.
History: Built by the Normans, famous for the 1215 siege during the Magna Carta years.
Admission: Adult £8.50, Child £5.10, Family ~ £24-£25. (Rochester Castle)

10. Walmer Castle & Gardens (Kent, England)

Where: Deal, Kent
Why we love it: Beautiful gardens, seaside walks, and cosy interiors make it a good all-weather choice.
History: A Tudor coastal fort built by Henry VIII, later home to the Duke of Wellington.
Admission: Adult £14.50, Child £9.00, Family ~ £38. (Walmer Castle)

Bonus: Cardiff Castle (Wales) – Best for Accessibility

Where: Cardiff city centre
Why we love it: Right in the heart of the capital, this castle combines Roman walls, Norman keeps, and lavish Victorian interiors. It’s also one of the most accessible castles in the UK, with lifts, ramps, and accessible facilities.
History: Layers of history from Roman fort to Norman stronghold to a Gothic Revival mansion.
Admission: Adult £16.50, Child (5-16) £11, Family tickets from £49. (Cardiff Castle)

Tips for Visiting Castles with Kids

  • Check opening times: Some castles have seasonal hours or limited access to certain towers.
  • Wear comfy shoes or wellies: Stone stairs, uneven paths and muddy tracks are all part of the adventure.
  • Pack snacks: Many castles have cafés, but picnics can save money and be more fun.
  • Mix indoor & outdoor: Ruins for climbing, halls for history, gardens for running off energy.
  • Try family trails: Many castles offer interactive maps, treasure hunts, or guided tours.

These castles combine history with hands-on adventure, making them perfect family outings. Whether you’re in Scotland, England, or Wales, you’ll find somewhere magical for your little knights and princesses to explore.