Top 14 Castles in Somerset

Many castles in Somerset welcome families. Dunster Village, home to Dunster Castle, is a great base with over 200 listed buildings and offers a comprehensive historical experience with diverse architecture, rich collections, and stunning gardens. Nunney Castle is also family-friendly, offering a picturesque moated medieval design that children often enjoy exploring. The Bishop's Palace in Wells, while not strictly a castle, features beautiful gardens and is listed as family-friendly.

Yes, Nunney Castle is a romantic ruin managed by English Heritage and is free to the public. Its dramatic great tower and moat offer a captivating insight into medieval architecture. Other sites like Daws Castle and Castle Neroche, which are primarily earthworks, are also generally accessible without charge.

Somerset's castles are often set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Dunster Castle offers magnificent views across Exmoor National Park and boasts beautiful terraced gardens. Daws Castle, a 9th-century Saxon fortification, provides superb panoramic coastal views from its clifftop location. Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort is nestled in tree-covered grounds, offering amazing views.

Many castles are excellent starting points for outdoor adventures. Near Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, you can find easy hiking routes like the 'Herepath Trail - Castle Neroche'. For more extensive options, explore the 'Easy hikes in Somerset' guide for trails like 'Cheddar Gorge loop' or 'Brean Down loop'. If you're into cycling, the 'Gravel biking in Somerset' guide offers routes such as 'The Quantock Hills National Landscape loop from Taunton', and 'MTB Trails in Somerset' provides options like 'Quantock Hills loop from Lydeard Hill car park'. You can find more details on these routes in the Easy hikes in Somerset, Gravel biking in Somerset, and MTB Trails in Somerset guides.

For a comprehensive medieval experience, Nunney Castle is an almost perfect example of a moated 14th-century castle. Farleigh Hungerford Castle, a 14th-century fortified mansion, is steeped in rich history, including tales of intrigue and medieval wall paintings. Stogursey Castle, a picturesque 12th-century moated castle, also bears witness to nearly a thousand years of history.

While many historic sites present challenges, some locations offer better accessibility. The Bishop's Palace in Wells is listed as wheelchair accessible, and Wells Cathedral, adjacent to the Palace, also has good accessibility. It's always recommended to check the specific venue's website for the most current accessibility information before your visit.

Somerset's castles can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring gardens and grounds, such as those at Dunster Castle or The Bishop's Palace. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially around sites like Castle Neroche. Even in winter, places like Nunney Castle can be atmospheric, and some sites may host special events.

Taunton Castle itself is a Grade I listed Scheduled Ancient Monument that houses the Museum of Somerset, telling the county's story from prehistoric times. Its central location in Taunton makes it easily accessible for exploring the town's other historical aspects.

Yes, Somerset has some unique examples. Sham Castle near Bath is not a true defensive castle but a fascinating folly built in 1762 to enhance a view, offering spectacular vistas over Bath. Birnbeck Fort Ruins, originally built to defend against Napoleonic invasion, is now a ruin with intact rooms and information boards, offering a different kind of historical exploration.

Visitors appreciate the diverse historical experiences, from exploring medieval ruins to well-preserved buildings. The picturesque settings, often with stunning views or tranquil moats, are frequently highlighted. The blend of history with natural beauty, such as Dunster Castle's setting in Exmoor National Park, is also a major draw. Many enjoy the opportunity to delve into centuries of history within these unique structures.

Many castles are located near villages or towns that offer amenities. For example, Nunney Castle has a pub directly opposite, which is a popular spot for visitors. Dunster Castle is situated in the medieval village of Dunster, which has various cafes and pubs. Taunton Castle is in the heart of Taunton, offering numerous dining options.

Yes, Somerset is home to several significant Iron Age hill forts. Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort is a notable example, later adapted into a motte-and-bailey castle, featuring larger earthworks than most Norman castles. Bat's Castle Iron Age Hillfort is another historical site offering insights into ancient fortifications.