Top 5 Castles around North Bradley
Best castles around North Bradley are found in the surrounding area, as the village itself is located in Wiltshire, England. This region features several notable historical estates and castles. Visitors can explore a range of historical architecture, from medieval ruins to grand Elizabethan houses. The area offers insights into centuries of English history through its preserved sites.
Best castles around North Bradley
- The most popular castles is Longleat House, an impressive Elizabethan prodigy house set amongst 1,000 acres of parkland, home to the first safari park outside Africa. It combines historical grandeur with wildlife attractions, offering exploration of the house, parkland, and safari park.
- Another must-see spot is Farleigh Hungerford Castle, a medieval 14th-century castle that was the ancestral home of the Hungerford family. Its ruins provide insight into medieval history and survived the English Civil War.
- Visitors also love Great Chalfield Manor, a medieval moated manor house built around 1480. This Grade I listed building offers a glimpse into 15th-century architecture and lifestyle with its historic structure and gardens.
- North Bradley is known for its medieval castles, stately homes, and moated manor houses. These sites offer a variety of historical experiences, from exploring ruins to visiting well-preserved estates.
- The castles around North Bradley are appreciated by the komoot community, with 185 upvotes and 46 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Longleat House
Highlight • Monument
Construction on the house began in 1568 on the site of a priory which had burnt down. Originally designed for Sir John Thynn, the estate remains in the same family today. The flamboyant artist Alexander Thynn and his son Ceawilin Thynn currently live in the house.
You can visit Longleat from 10am - 5pm daily. It's well worth exploring the safari and other attractions as well. Tickets for adults cost £17.00 online. You can buy them here: longleat.co.uk
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Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Highlight • Castle
In 1686, Sir Edward Hungerford was forced to sell the castle after losing his fortune to gambling and extravagance. By the 18th century, the castle lay empty and fell into disrepair.
Today, the castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument owned by English Heritage. You can visit 10am - 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Entrance costs £5.70 per adult. More information: english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/farleigh-hungerford-castle
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Great Chalfield Manor
Highlight • Historical Site
Today, the property is owned by the National Trust. It has featured in a number of films and TV series including The Other Boleyn Girl, Tess of the d'Ubervilles and Wolf Hall. Poldark fans will recognise it as Killewarran House. Admission costs £5 and you can visit from 10.30am to 4pm. More information: greatchalfield.co.uk
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Lullington Castle Entrance
Highlight • Castle
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Tips from the Community
Private property but you can stop at the gates for a picture
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Check on tour times if you want to look around the house - well worth it. About 45 mins.
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I don’t usually like audio guides but this was really well done. Interesting castle history, but also the characters and stories. And the chapel at the end is an excellent finale. I spent almost an hour here. No cafe but you can get tea/coffee/ ice cream. A good stop!
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Great Chalfield is a beautiful medieval manor house surrounded by lush gardens and scenic countryside. Built around 1480 for Thomas Tropenell, a distinguished lawyer and landowner, the moated house is a Grade I listed property. Now owned by the National Trust, it has appeared in various films and TV shows, such as The Other Boleyn Girl, Tess of the d'Ubervilles, and Wolf Hall. Fans of Poldark will recognize it as Killewarran House.
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A castle with a family history from 1160 to today. The family tree is simply gigantic.
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National Trust Great Chalfield manor and gardens. Paid entry, NT members free. Open 3rd April to 30th October. Tue, Wed and Thurs 11:00 - 17:00. Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Small café onsite.
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Started in the 14th century, and occupied by the Hungerford family for 300 years, Farleigh Hungerford Castle (now looked after by English Heritage) commands an impressive position overlooking the peaceful Frome Valley on the Wiltshire/Somerset border.
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Managed by English Heritage this is a paid entry property unless your a member. The castle is a fortified mansion started in the 14th century. Today it's a ruin but there is still quite a lot left to explore. If you don't pay you can see the entrance from the car park which is quite impressive. You can also walk around the base on a footpath to the right (when facing the castle on the road). Open 10:00 - 17:00 everyday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles and historical sites can I visit near North Bradley?
Near North Bradley, you can explore a range of historical sites including medieval moated manor houses, 14th-century castle ruins, and grand Elizabethan prodigy houses. These sites offer diverse insights into centuries of English history and architecture.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around North Bradley?
Yes, several castles and historical sites near North Bradley are great for families. Longleat House offers a unique experience with its safari park alongside the historic house. Both Farleigh Hungerford Castle and Great Chalfield Manor are also listed as family-friendly, providing historical exploration in different settings.
What makes Longleat House a popular destination?
Longleat House is renowned as an impressive Elizabethan prodigy house set within 1,000 acres of parkland. It uniquely combines historical grandeur with wildlife attractions, being home to the first safari park outside of Africa. Visitors can explore the historic house, expansive grounds, and the famous safari park.
What can I expect when visiting Farleigh Hungerford Castle?
Farleigh Hungerford Castle is a medieval 14th-century castle that offers a fascinating glimpse into its tumultuous history as the ancestral home of the Hungerford family. Though largely in ruins, it provides an evocative atmosphere for exploring a significant historical site that survived the English Civil War. It is managed by English Heritage.
What is unique about Great Chalfield Manor?
Great Chalfield Manor is a stunning medieval moated manor house built around 1480. This Grade I listed building, owned by the National Trust, allows visitors to step back in time to 15th-century architecture and lifestyle, surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens and picturesque countryside. It has also been featured in various films and TV series.
Are there walking or hiking routes near these castles?
Yes, the area around North Bradley offers numerous walking and hiking routes. For example, you can find routes that pass near Great Chalfield Manor or Farleigh Hungerford Castle. You can explore various options, including easy and moderate trails, by checking the hiking guide for North Bradley.
Can I find cycling routes that include these historical sites?
Absolutely. Cycling routes in the area can take you past these historical landmarks. For instance, the 24 cycle route goes through Longleat, allowing you to cycle right past Longleat House. Discover more cycling options in the cycling guide for North Bradley.
What are the typical opening hours for these castles?
Opening hours vary by site and season. Longleat House is generally open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Farleigh Hungerford Castle is typically open from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Great Chalfield Manor is open on specific days from April to October, usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 11 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm. It's always best to check their official websites for the most current information before visiting.
Are there cafes or refreshments available at these locations?
Yes, some locations offer refreshments. Great Chalfield Manor has a small café on-site. While Longleat House has dining options, visitors cycling through are advised to bring their own food and drink if not paying guests for the main attractions.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles near North Bradley?
The spring and summer months (April to October) are generally ideal for visiting, as most sites, including Great Chalfield Manor, are fully open during this period. The weather is also more favorable for exploring the outdoor grounds and nearby walking routes. However, Longleat House and Farleigh Hungerford Castle may have more extended opening seasons, so checking their specific schedules is recommended for off-peak visits.
Is there a lesser-known historical site worth exploring in the area?
While not a castle, Lullington Castle Entrance is a point of interest near the charming old town of Lullington, known for its thatched houses. It offers a glimpse of an old castle on the edge of the village, providing a more local and perhaps quieter historical experience.
Most popular attractions around North Bradley
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