Castles and Palaces
The most beautiful castles in Southern England
Join DFDS on a discovery tour and visit the many castles and palaces of southern England. We take you on an impressive journey to the most beautiful, historic castles in the region.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the largest private and oldest continuously inhabited castle in the world. Together with the Buckingham Palace and the Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, it is one of the official main residences of the British monarchs. Below the castle, the Thames flows on its way to London. Queen Elizabeth II spends many weekends of the year at Windsor Castle. She uses the buildings both for receptions of the state and for private purposes.
Leeds Castle
The moated castle Leeds Castle is located about six kilometers southeast of Kent. The castle and its lands were named after the small village of Leeds, to which they adjoin. Incidentally, this village should not be confused with the city, which is about three hundred kilometers north. It was gradually used as a Norman fortress over the centuries, as the residence of six medieval queens, as the palace of Henry VIII, and as a sanctuary for the rich and powerful. In the more than 1,000 years of its existence, the castle has survived many battles, housed powerful statesmen and inspired numerous artists.
Image Credit: Holly Buggins, VisitKent
Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle has nearly 1,000 years of history within its walls and has been the location for many historical films. The castle was built on a hill in West Sussex overlooking the Arun River by the then Earl of Arundel in the 11th century and has since served as a family home. Today, the Duke of Norfolk lives in the castle with his family. Large parts of the Arundel Castles are open to visitors for a fee, only the private rooms of the Dukes are excluded from the visit. In addition, a visit to the walled gardens of the castle is highly recommended. Eight different gardens, including the award-winning Earl's Collectors Garden, feature a variety of plants, shrubs and flowers.
Image credit: VisitBritain
Travel Guides
Brighton
Brighton is the quintessential English seaside town, located about an hour south of London.
Canterbury
Rich in history - Canterbury is a must for those wishing to immerse themselves in the culture of one of England's most famous cities.
Dover
Discover Dover’s ancient heritage and iconic White Cliffs when you travel on a ferry crossing from Dunkirk or Calais.
Kent
Known as the Garden of England, Kent is renowned for its natural beauty.
London
Visit London for iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, as well as the charming boroughs of Kensington, Notting Hill, Shoreditch and more.
Ogwen Valley
Explore Dan-yr-Ogof to discover stunning views and historic towns surrounded by natural sceneries.
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