BRITISH CASTLES
78Some of the most famous castles of Britain are located in the following places:
· England
· Scotland
· Ireland
· Wales
ENGLAND CASTLES:
BRIEF HISTORY OF ENGLISH CASTLES
During the Medieval era, The English castles were built of stone and if we look at the history of the English castles, it takes us back to the Neolithic Period - the Stone Age, the time when people began to live in groups and communities. In earlier times, castles were built for safety and protection, but with time they started to reflect the wealth and power as they were quite splendid and magnificent.
WINDSOR CASTLE
Windsor Castle is the largest castle of England. The castle's area is approximately 484,000 square feet. It is one of the official residences of the British monarch, and Queen Elizabeth II lives here and the place is used for grandiose functions.
Visiting time: The castle is open throughout the year.
HATFIELD CASTLE
Hatfield Castle of England is famous for the fact that is one where Elizabeth became the Queen of England. It’s a very beautiful castle which was the earlier residence of Queen Elizabeth. The walls of castle are engraved with delicate and superb artwork.
THORNBURY CASTLE
Thornbury castle is the only castle which has been opened as a hotel, and its one of the magnificent castles of England which has been renovated to the contemporary tastes with the streak of classical artwork and architecture. This castle was the residence of many historical kings and queens, the well-known King Henry VIII also lived here.
Other worth visiting castles of England are:
· Arundel Castle
· Rockingham Castle.
· LeedsCastle
WELSH CASTLES
CARDIFF CASTLE
The Cardiff castle is situated in the middle of Wales’ capital. This castle is famous for its stunning interiors; it has roman architecture and wall art. There is also a military museum in the castle.
CAERNARFON CASTLE
Located at SeiontRiver, CaernarfonCastle is famous as a World Heritage Site. It was King Edward’s royal residence. In 1969, Prince Charles became the Prince of Wales and this gave the castle worldwide fame.
SCOTTISH CASTLES
BALLINDALLOCH CASTLE
Ballindalloch Castle is considered one of the most romantic castles of Scotland. It’s located in the beautiful SpeyValley and it has been the family home of Macpherson-Grant family since 1546. Ballindalloch castle is also known as the Pearl of the North. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and spectacular hills, the castle truly represents a piece of heaven on earth.
Castle History
The castle was built in 1564 and since then it has been a family owned castle of Macpherson-Grants. Though its centuries old, but the family living there has been maintaining it so well, that it seems more like an incessant transition from a tower house of 16th century to the contemporary cozy home.
Visiting Time:
The Castle is open from April to September.
Visitors can visit during 1030 hours to 1500 hours.
The Castle is closed on Saturdays
Other famous Scottish castles are:
· Urquhart Castle
· StirlingCastle
· EdinburghCastle
