Old Wardour Castle

Well worth a visit with your English Heritage membership. Quite a lot of the castle remains despite it getting blown up during the Civil War... Can spend a good couple of hours exploring the building and grounds. It's not really all that important site, but there is an interesting audio tour worth doing that explains about a lot of the history of the building and those who owned it. As ever, the staff in the little shop / café were extremely nice and very friendly.

The road to the castle is one lane hair pin turns with hedges going 60 mph. Ha! Worth the white knuckle drive. Beautiful area. Amazing ruins.

A little off the beaten path but so worth a trip to this fantastic little piece of history. It's not as busy as other castles and that adds to it's charm, so much of the ruins to explore and mostly all to yourself. The story behind this castle is very interesting and well told in boards around the site. On a sunny day this would be a fantastic spot to take a picnic with the kids and explore. They do have covered and uncovered picnic benches and toilets down some steep steps.

Been here twice now, and love it. Away from crowds this one. Was built more of a statement of wealth castle more than a defensive bastion but the English Civil War saw it come under assault. I love the information boards around the castle that help you imagine it in its heyday. Famous for being the Loxley home in Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves. I like the graffiti that can be seen on the ground level walls, particularly on the front. Look for the Second World War era markings left by U.S servicemen.

Visited today it was a little further a field than what I expected and lots of bendy narrow roads to get to. I enjoyed the audio tape that came with the ticket and the displays dotted around. There was even a trail and some fun activities for kids sort of like a “ would you rather…” tale. Enjoyed the grounds And the beautiful forest too. Liked that you could go all the way up to the 4th floor and see the amazing views. It is also dog friendly, dogs were in the castle with their owners! A lovely place for a picnic. You could even fish I think from one of the many jetties over the lake . I also noticed the #WessexRidgeway goes right past there. Definitely worth a visit. @thewobbleyOwl came with me.

We tried to get inside so many times, but we always arrived by the time it was closed. Still beautiful, but the inside was worth the wait! The grounds are beautifully maintained, the staff is lovely and the castle is stunning and a lot bigger than it looks! The ground floor is pretty accessible but the stairs are very steep, so people with mobility issues might have a problem viewing the upper floors. There is an accessible bathroom as well as other facilities.

Although a little hard to drive to down those narrow single country lanes, it is a lovely place! The audio guide is great to get an overview of the history. But even without it is a stunning location.

A Magical and Romantic Historical Gem! Old Wardour Castle is an absolute treasure! From the moment you arrive, the breathtaking setting—nestled among rolling hills, lush forests, and a serene lake—feels like stepping into a fairy tale . The ruins are beautifully preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into medieval history while still evoking the grandeur of its past . What makes this place truly special is its romantic atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the spiral staircases, admiring the panoramic views from the towers, or discovering hidden nooks like the charming grotto, every corner feels enchanting . The 18th-century banqueting pavilion by the lake adds an extra touch of elegance, making it a dreamy spot for weddings and photography . The site is perfect for a peaceful day out—bring a picnic, wander the grounds, and soak in the history. The staff are friendly, and the information boards provide just the right amount of detail without overwhelming visitors. Plus, the drive up to the castle is an experience in itself, with stunning scenery at every turn . If you love history, architecture, or simply beautiful landscapes, Old Wardour Castle is a must-visit. Even in ruins, it’s one of the most picturesque and atmospheric places I’ve ever been. Highly recommend!