Tower of London

One of the most famous castles in both the UK and the world, the Tower of London was founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror. The Norman ruler later built the iconic White Tower. Additional towers and walls were added by Richard the Lionheart. Since the early 12th century, the Tower has served as a prison, and over the course of more than 800 years, many notable figures have been held within its walls — including William Wallace, Thomas More, Lady Jane Grey, Edward V, Anne Boleyn, and even the future Queen Elizabeth I. Over the centuries, the fortress has served a variety of surprising roles — from royal zoo to mint. Today, it is a museum located in the heart of London.

Windsor Castle

A contemporary of the Tower of London, Windsor Castle was also founded during the Norman conquest of England. Built in the Thames Valley, the castle withstood a major siege during the First Barons’ War in the 13th century. Later, King Henry III added a lavish palace within the grounds. In the 14th century, Edward III carried out a grand transformation, turning Windsor into one of the most impressive structures of the medieval period. Monarchs arranged balls and received diplomats here for centuries. Today, Windsor Castle serves as an official royal residence. It is the largest occupied castle in the world, home to over 500 residents. St. George’s Chapel hosts royal weddings, and many members of the royal family — from Jane Seymour to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip — are buried within the castle grounds.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle in Kent was built a bit later than the Tower and Windsor — in 1119. The fortress was constructed in a stunning location, on two islands in the middle of a lake. In 1278, King Edward I took control of the castle and invested heavily in its development. In 1321, the widow of Edward II made Leeds Castle her residence. From that point on, English queens frequently visited this castle, considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Today, this masterpiece of medieval architecture is owned by a charitable trust and is one of the most visited landmarks in the UK. The castle features a yew-tree maze with a central grotto and an aviary with rare bird species.

Dover Castle

Not far from Leeds Castle, also in Kent, stands Dover Castle. Perched on the white cliffs overlooking the Strait of Dover, this site has long held strategic importance. The first fortifications were established here in the 1st century during the Roman Empire. However, the massive stone castle — one of the largest in the kingdom — was built in the late 12th century under King Henry II. Dover Castle has witnessed medieval battles, Napoleon’s invasion threats, and many other historical events. During World War II, it served as an air-raid shelter and headquarters. Like many other castles in England, it now functions as a museum.

Edinburgh Castle

The crown jewel of Edinburgh and all of Scotland, this castle boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Located atop Castle Rock — the remains of an extinct volcano — the site has been inhabited roughly since 800 BC. The first recorded mention of the castle came in 1093, with the death of King Malcolm III. This scenic stronghold played a central role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. In 1292, the English captured the fortress for the first time, but 20 years later, the Scots retook it. The castle changed hands numerous times but eventually remained under the control of the English Crown. Over the centuries, it served as a royal residence and later as a prison. Today, it is open to tourists and remains one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks.