Top 3 Castles around Salisbury

The castles in the Salisbury area provide a journey through various historical periods. For instance, Old Sarum Ruins showcases over 2,000 years of history, from an Iron Age hillfort to Norman castle and cathedral remains. Old Wardour Castle, a 14th-century tower house, offers insights into medieval life, Elizabethan modernization, and its role during the Civil War. You can also explore the remains of a medieval palace at Clarendon Palace Ruins, a favourite residence of British monarchs.

Yes, several castles are great for families. Old Sarum Ruins is highly recommended, offering an action-packed day where families can explore the ruins of the royal castle and the footprint of Salisbury's first cathedral. The site is managed by English Heritage and provides ample space for exploration and picnics. The Moot and Moot House in Downton, with its 11th-century motte and bailey castle earthworks set within landscaped gardens, is also a perfect spot for a family outing.

For stunning panoramic views, Old Sarum Ruins offers unrivalled vistas across the Wiltshire countryside from its elevated position. Similarly, Old Wardour Castle allows visitors to climb its East Tower for impressive views of the picturesque ruins and serene lake, providing a beautiful backdrop for exploration.

While specific public transport routes vary, Old Sarum is conveniently located just a couple of miles north of modern Salisbury, making it accessible. For other castles, checking local bus services from Salisbury is advisable. Many of the nearby routes, such as those listed in the Hikes from bus stations around Salisbury guide, can help you plan your journey to areas close to these historical sites.

Beyond the more prominent sites, The Moot and Moot House in Downton is a wonderful hidden gem. It features the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle within extensive landscaped gardens, offering a tranquil spot for a leisurely visit. Another interesting site is Whitsbury Castle, an early Iron Age hill fort with reinforced banks, mostly tree-covered today, providing a nice place for a walk around its base.

The areas around Salisbury's castles are excellent for outdoor activities, particularly hiking. You can find numerous trails that incorporate these historical sites. For example, there are routes like the "Salisbury Cathedral – Salisbury Market Square loop from Old Sarum" or the "Old Sarum Ruins – Old Sarum loop from Salisbury." Explore more options in guides like Family-friendly hikes around Salisbury or Easy hikes around Salisbury.

Visiting castles around Salisbury is enjoyable throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the grounds and enjoying picnics. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, enhancing the scenic views, while winter can offer a quieter, more atmospheric visit, especially at sites like Old Sarum Ruins, which is open year-round.

Yes, Devizes Castle, while originally a Norman fortress, was largely destroyed during the 17th-century Civil War. The current magnificent Victorian castellated mansion built on its foundations is now a private residence. While not open to the public for tours, its grand presence and architecture can be admired from various public areas around the town of Devizes.

For detailed information on sites managed by English Heritage, such as Old Sarum and Old Wardour Castle, you can visit their official websites. For example, you can find more about Old Sarum at english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/old-sarum/ and Old Wardour Castle at english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/old-wardour-castle/. These sites often provide details on opening hours, facilities, and special events.

Many castles in the Salisbury area are set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Old Sarum Ruins offers extensive earthworks and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Old Wardour Castle is known for its picturesque ruins by a serene lake and landscaped grounds. Even sites like Whitsbury Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, are now mostly tree-covered, providing a natural setting for walks.

Many of the outdoor castle sites and their surrounding areas are suitable for dog walking, provided dogs are kept on leads. For instance, the outer area of Old Sarum Ruins is free to visit and open 24/7, making it ideal for walks with pets. Similarly, the landscaped grounds of Old Wardour Castle are often enjoyed by dog walkers. Always check specific site rules regarding pets before your visit.