MOST of us are familiar with Britain’s stand-out castles – Windsor, Edinburgh, Pembroke, Caernarfon, the Tower of London and so on – but these islands are packed with smaller gems. Here are three castles sites – all managed by English Heritage – in the West Country.
Old Wardour Castle, near Tisbury, Wiltshire: In the Wiltshire countryside beside a lake, the castle was built in the 14th century as a fortified luxury home. It was badly damaged during the English Civil War, and now it’s a romantic ruin that’s ideal for a day out for couples and kids. Parts of Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, early parts of which were filmed there.
Farleigh Hungerford Castle, Somerset/Wiltshire border: The 14th century castle is a ruin now, but there’s still much for visitors to see: a chapel with rare medieval wall paintings; family tombs; displays in the priest’s house; and human-shaped lead coffins in a crypt.
Portland Castle, Dorset: Overlooking Portland Harbour, this was one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts, built to keep the French and Spanish out. Close to Weymouth, it provides a great day out for visitors. There are perfect views from the gun platforms, and a free audio tour bringing history to life, from the Tudors to the Second World War.
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www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
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