Top 2 Castles around South Wingfield
Best castles around South Wingfield include Wingfield Manor, a significant historical site known for its medieval grandeur and turbulent history. This Grade I listed ruined manor house, though currently closed to the public, offers impressive views from surrounding public footpaths. The area features a mix of historical sites and castle ruins, providing insights into England's past.
Best castles around South Wingfield
- The most popular castles is Hardwick Old Hall, a historical site that is an architecturally significant Elizabethan country…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Hardwick Old Hall
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Codnor Castle Ruins
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View of Riber Castle
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Willersley Castle
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Horsley Castle
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It was a Norman motte and bailey castle which was founded by Ralph de Buron. In the 13th century King John built a stone castle, adding a keep, a chapel, a gatehouse and a barbican. In 1514 it was granted by Henry VIII to the Duke of Norfolk as a reward for services against the Scots. Later it came into the possession of the Stanhope family. The castle is ruined today, damaged by extensive quarrying. There are visible remains of the keep although this is now largely overgrown.
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Harder than it looks. Easy to off track, but straightforward to get back on again. Beautiful scenery on untrodden paths. Best when dry
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Work is currently underway to build luxury apartments in the castle grounds and further homes through the conversion of outbuildings and the gatehouse.
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Updated 2024, access to the castle is now severely limited due to the new land owner, can only be viewed from a fenced path across the field. The Codnor castle heritage trust is no longer involved with on site activities.
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The castle is on private land, having been sold off. English Heritage maintains the ruins...but there's no access to the site other than a footpath, which goes past it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles can I explore around South Wingfield?
The region is rich in history, with several notable sites. While currently closed to the public, Wingfield Manor is a significant medieval ruin known for its grandeur and its role in holding Mary Queen of Scots. You can also visit the evocative Codnor Castle Ruins, a medieval castle with visible remains, and Horsley Castle, a Norman motte and bailey castle with visible keep remains.
Are there any family-friendly castle sites near South Wingfield?
Yes, Hardwick Old Hall is considered family-friendly. This architecturally significant Elizabethan country house offers extensive grounds and is a leading example of the Elizabethan prodigy house, making it an interesting visit for all ages.
Can I bring my dog to any of the castle ruins?
Yes, Codnor Castle Ruins is accessible with big dogs, as the stiles have gaps. It's a great spot for a walk with your canine companion, offering views and historical interest.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around South Wingfield offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including moderate trails like the 'Crich Cross – Ruins of Wingfield Manor loop'. There are also running trails and cycling routes, ranging from easy to difficult, allowing you to explore the scenic countryside.
Where can I find the best viewpoints of castles in the region?
For stunning views, you can see Riber Castle from Pic Tor. Additionally, the ruins of Codnor Castle Ruins offer great views, and Hardwick Old Hall is also noted as a viewpoint.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around South Wingfield?
While there's no single 'best' time, the 'evocative and hauntingly beautiful ruins' of Wingfield Manor and the 'wide panorama of rich countryside' suggest that visiting during milder weather, such as spring or summer, would allow for the most comfortable exploration and enjoyment of the views from sites like Codnor Castle Ruins and Hardwick Old Hall.
Is Wingfield Manor accessible to the public?
Currently, Wingfield Manor is closed to the public as it is part of a working farm. However, its imposing structure can still be admired from the surrounding landscape and the village of South Wingfield by following public footpaths.
Are there any castles that are now used for other purposes?
Yes, Willersley Castle, built in 1792 by Richard Arkwright, is now a centre for residential outdoor activity. This offers a different perspective on historical structures in the region.
What makes Hardwick Old Hall unique among the castles in the area?
Hardwick Old Hall is an architecturally significant Elizabethan country house, built for Bess of Hardwick. It's a leading example of the Elizabethan prodigy house style, known for its extensive grounds and being one of the earliest English interpretations of the Renaissance style.
What historical events are associated with Wingfield Manor?
Wingfield Manor has a rich history, including being one of the prisons for Mary Queen of Scots on three separate occasions. It also played a strategic role during the English Civil War, enduring sieges and bombardment, which led to its partial demolition.
Are there any circular walks around the castles?
Yes, for example, the 'Crich Cross – Ruins of Wingfield Manor loop' is an 8.7 km moderate hiking route that allows you to experience the landscape around Wingfield Manor.
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