Europe brims with stories, stone, and cinematic backdrops. Many films borrow castles for romance and drama. Also, those castles are real and visitable. Ready to see six castles from your favorite films? Pack a camera and a sense of wonder.
- Doune Castle — Doune, Scotland (Monty Python and the Holy Grail)
- Haddon Hall — Derbyshire, England (The Princess Bride)
- Broughton Castle — Banbury, Oxfordshire (Shakespeare in Love)
- Bamburgh Castle — Bamburgh, Northumberland (Elizabeth, Macbeth)
- Dover Castle — Dover, Kent (The Other Boleyn Girl)
- Castle Howard — North Yorkshire (Bridgerton, Brideshead Revisited)
Doune Castle — Doune, Scotland
Built in the 13th century, Doune wears a long, dramatic history.It fell into ruin in the 19th century, then returned to glory.And film fans know Doune from Monty Python and the Holy Grail.It also appears in Ivanhoe, Game of Thrones, and Outlander. Book tickets online to guarantee entry and a proper medieval wander.
Haddon Hall — Derbyshire, England
Haddon Hall dates back to the 11th century. It feels like stepping into a romance novel. The legend of Dorothy Vernon adds extra charm and mystery. It starred in The Princess Bride, Pride & Prejudice, and Jane Eyre. Reserve tickets on the Haddon Hall website before you go.
Broughton Castle — Banbury, Oxfordshire
Built in the 14th century, Broughton sits on an artificial island. It has a classic moat and picture-perfect light at golden hour. It stayed in the same family for centuries, the Fiennes.
And you can spot it in Shakespeare in Love and Jane Eyre. Visiting is seasonal; it opens mainly in summer, so plan ahead.
Bamburgh Castle — Bamburgh, Northumberland
Perched on cliffs, Bamburgh stares out across the North Sea. The site dates back to the 400s with deep historic roots. It appears in films like Elizabeth, Macbeth, and Indiana Jones. You can tour the castle or even host a wedding there. Channel your inner Elizabethan and soak in the coastal views.
Dover Castle — Dover, Kent
Dover is the textbook medieval fortress on a chalk cliff. It has towers, chapels, and centuries of military drama. Dover features in films like The Other Boleyn Girl and Into the Woods. Arrive early and book online to avoid long visitor lines. Meanwhile, take time to explore the tunnels and battlements.
Castle Howard — North Yorkshire, England
Castle Howard dates to the 18th and early 19th centuries. It feels grand in a stately, almost cinematic way. You may recognize it from Bridgerton and Brideshead Revisited. When touring, buy advanced tickets for the house and gardens. Stroll the grounds for fountains, follies, and picture-perfect moments.
These six castles are only the start. Europe holds endless castles waiting to be discovered.
Make your own list and start planning your castle tour.Want help turning dreams into an itinerary? Contact Heather at heather@worldofwandertravel.com or call 614-664-9477.
Visit worldofwandertravel.com to start planning with us today.