The UK’s Top Ten Most Instagrammable Castles
From fairytale palaces to imposing fortresses, the UK has over 4,000 castles. To help you choose where to visit next, we’ve looked at hashtag mentions of the UK’s castles to find which ones have had you reaching for your cameras to capture the perfect picture for your highlights.
10. Highclere Castle – #highclerecastle
In tenth place on our list, we have the elegant Highclere Castle in Newbury, and it’s not difficult to see why this gorgeous Elizabethan-style home has made the list. Highclere is known by another name, one that has made it famous around the world: The real Downton Abbey.
Whether you want to relive your favourite scenes from the show or learn more about the real history behind the picturesque castle and estate, Highclere is open for around 60 days a year. Or, you can also book yourself onto a guided tour or special event.
9. Castle Howard – #castlehoward
The sprawling estate around Castle Howard is set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, about a 25-minute drive out of York. Beginning construction in 1699, the stately home and estate took over 100 years to complete. Today, it’s open to the public to explore its opulent halls and almost 1,000 acres of grounds.
With landscaped gardens, lakes, woodland and monuments to discover, you could easily spend an afternoon strolling with your family and four-legged friends. On drizzly days, don’t forget to keep one of our designer umbrellas on hand to keep you dry and looking stylish in your Instagram pics.
8. Bamburgh Castle – #bamburghcastle
Bamburgh Castle stands proudly on the cliffs of the Northumberland coastline. Within its walls, you’ll find over 1,000 years of history and an eclectic collection of artefacts and legends from across the centuries. And if the weather is on your side, you’re only a few moments away from soaking up the sun and sand of Bamburgh Beach.
7. Hever Castle – #hevercastle
Hever Castle is a Tudor stronghold that was once Anne Boleyn’s childhood home. The castle has been a witness to turbulent periods of British history, and a priceless collection of furniture, tapestries, and antiques helps to tell its story.
In the surrounding 125 acres of grounds, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained, including lakeside walks, play areas and archery for adults and youngsters alike.
6. Corfe Castle – #corfecastle
Over the 1,000 years of its history, Corfe Castle has seen many sieges and battles. Today, all that remains standing are the dramatic, crooked ruins atop the scenic Purbeck hills. Behind every wall lie secrets and tales of treachery that make this castle a must-visit.
5. Leeds Castle – #leedscastle
This breathtaking castle is nestled on an island in the middle of a lake, surrounded by 500 acres of picturesque gardens and parkland.
And if that weren’t reason enough to visit and take gorgeous photos, the castle’s association with some of the most powerful queens in British history makes it a truly unique place to explore.
4. Warwick Castle – #warwickcastle
Warwick Castle is the perfect day out if you’re after a thrilling adventure, with plenty for adults and kids to get stuck into. Archery, jousting, and historical re-enactments are just some of the exciting events that regularly take place on the castle grounds.
3. St Michael’s Mount – #stmichaelsmount
On a gorgeous sunny day when the tide is low, follow in the footsteps of those who have come before and tread along the ancient cobbled causeway that leads to a small island off the Cornish coast. Past the harbour, village, and steep garden terraces, you’ll find St Michael’s Mount, a castle that has played many roles throughout its history. From priory to fortress to family home, the castle has many stories to uncover.
2. Hampton Court Palace – #hamptoncourtpalace
Hampton Court Palace has precedent for being a very Instagrammable castle; after all, it’s been used as a backdrop for film and TV for almost 100 years. Most recently, Bridgerton fans might recognise it as the place where the debutants arrive before being presented to Queen Charlotte.
1. Windsor Castle – #windsorcastle
Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world and, to this day, is used by the Royal Family. It’s an icon of British history, and nearly 1.5 million visitors come to take in the sights every year, including the famous ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony. So it’s probably no surprise that we can officially crown Windsor Castle as our number one most Instagrammable castle.
For a fascinating day out learning about UK history, there’s perhaps no better place to be than one of our many breathtaking castles. And if you’re currently planning your next trip, remember to check out our full range of designer umbrellas to keep the rain off your head during your outdoor adventures.