Top 14 Castles in Hampshire
Castles in Hampshire offer a diverse collection of historical structures, from Roman fortifications to medieval royal residences and coastal defenses. The county features a varied landscape, including the Solent coastline and inland waterways like the Basingstoke Canal. These sites provide insights into different periods of English history and are often situated amidst natural features.
Best castles in Hampshire
- The most popular castles is Odiham Castle Ruins, a historical site known for its 13th-century octagonal keep. This rare architectural feature makes it a significant example of medieval castle design.
- Another must-see spot is Hurst Castle, a historical site. Built by Henry VIII, it served as a 16th-century coastal defense fortress at the end of a shingle spit.
- Visitors also love Portchester Castle, a historical site with Roman origins. It features a 12th-century Norman keep within its Roman walls and offers views across Portsmouth Harbour.
- Hampshire is known for Roman forts, medieval keeps, and Tudor coastal defenses. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, each representing different historical eras.
- The castles in Hampshire are appreciated by the komoot community. The guide features 14 highlights, with more than 40 photos and over 100 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Odiham Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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Wolvesey Castle (Old Bishop's Palace)
Highlight • Historical Site
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The Vyne
Highlight • Monument
The Vyne was built for Lord Sandys, King Henry VIII's Lord Chamberlain. The house retains its Tudor chapel, with stained glass. The classical portico on the north front was added in 1654 by Inigo Jones's pupil John Webb. In the mid-eighteenth century, The Vyne belonged to Horace Walpole's close friend John Chaloner Chute, who designed the Palladian staircase, whose magnificent apparent scale belies its actual small size.
The Vyne was bequeathed by its final Chute owner, Sir Charles Chute, to the National Trust in 1956.
Each year a number of concerts, plays and family events are run.
The grounds contain large woodland and a wetlands nesting site populated by swans and common redshanks. There are a number of woodlands, wetland and parkland walking trails. Dogs are welcome into the grounds (on leads), in Morgaston Woods and the Organic Parklands (under direct control).
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Vyne
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Portchester Castle
Highlight • Viewpoint
These days, the castle is under the management of English Heritage and open throughout the year for visitors. To save money on ticket price, book online in advance.
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Hurst Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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Bishop's Waltham Palace Ruins
Highlight • Monument
In the 14th century, the palace was taken over by William of Wykeham, the Bishop of Winchester and Chancellor of England. He had the tower built, the great hall rebuilt and other extensions constructed. In the 17th century, the palace was severely damaged in the Civil War, with much of its materials scavenged for other construction work.
Today, the site is managed by English Heritage and is free to explore.
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Calshot Spit
Highlight • Castle
In 1929 and 1931 Calshot was the venue of the famous Schneider Cup Trophy race and was the base of the Supermarine S6 seaplane. Calshot played an important role in the World War II and became home to the Sunderland Flying Boat. Find out more about the history of Calshot inside the Sunderland hangar.
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Titchfield Abbey
Highlight • Castle
The church was rebuilt as a grand turreted gatehouse and the former cloister formed the central courtyard of the later house. Edward VI, Elizabeth I and Charles I were amongst the important visitors who spent time here!
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Portchester Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
The castle is managed by English Heritage from 10am - 5pm. Tickets for adults cost £8.70. The courtyard and grounds are a great place to stop for a picnic on a bike Tour.
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Merdon Castle Lane
Highlight (Segment) • Castle
Merdon Castle is the site of an iron age hill fort and later Norman castle.
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Tips from the Community
Wolvesey Castle (also known as the Old Bishop's Palace) was the medieval residence of the extremely wealthy and powerful Bishops of Winchester.
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Features: The medieval complex included two great halls (East and West), a huge kitchen block, a keep, and one of the earliest known piped water supply systems in medieval Britain. Royal Connections: Due to the decline of Winchester Castle, Wolvesey became the favoured lodging for royalty visiting the city. The most famous event was the wedding banquet of Queen Mary I and Philip II of Spain in 1554, which took place in the East Hall before their marriage ceremony in Winchester Cathedral. Destruction: Wolvesey Castle was significantly damaged and largely stripped of its fortifications by the Parliamentarians (Roundheads) in 1646 during the English Civil War. Replacement Palace: The medieval palace was eventually abandoned in the 17th century. The site's fortunes changed with the Restoration of the Monarchy: Bishop George Morley (1662–1684) commissioned the construction of a new, smaller Baroque palace right next to the ruins. This palace was later partially demolished but its surviving West Wing remains the current private residence of the Bishop of Winchester today.
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It was the principal residence of the immensely wealthy and powerful Bishops of Winchester throughout the Middle Ages, and is now a spectacular ruin managed by English Heritage. The extensive ruins visible today are largely the work of Bishop Henry of Blois (1129–1171), the brother of King Stephen. Henry was a dominant political and religious figure who built a magnificent, fortified palace to reflect his status. Although often referred to as a castle, it was primarily a lavish palace built in the style of a castle (fortified) due to the turbulent political period of the 12th century known as The Anarchy.
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gets you close to the shipping to and from Southampton and gaze in awe at the sheer size of the boat's
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Wolvesey Castle in southern England is a fascinating ruin that offers insight into the region's medieval history. The remains of the castle are well-preserved and invite you to explore the historic site. Its location near Winchester makes the visit particularly enjoyable, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of bygone times in a tranquil setting. The atmosphere is serene and contemplative, ideal for history buffs and those who want to explore the past. Overall, Wolvesey Castle is an interesting place that impressively reflects the region's history.
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Some of the ruins are fenced off but still able to walk around most of it
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Calshot Spit is in the perfect position for defending Southampton Water. Calshot Castle (surrounded by aircraft hangars) is a Tudor Fort that was built by Henry VIII in the 16th century using stone reused from Beaulieu Abbey. It was later fortified by the Victorians. During the World War I, Calshot provided Channel defence and a training base for pilots. In 1929 and 1931 Calshot was the venue of the famous Schneider Cup Trophy race and was the base of the Supermarine S6 seaplane. Calshot played an important role in the World War II and became home to the Sunderland Flying Boat. Find out more about the history of Calshot inside the Sunderland hangar.
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As a Welshmen it is customary to flick the v's at an english castle. Don't ask me why, it just is.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Hampshire are particularly family-friendly?
Many castles in Hampshire welcome families. Portchester Castle offers wide-open grounds for picnics and regularly hosts family-friendly events. Hurst Castle provides an adventurous journey via a scenic walk or ferry ride, and its military history can be engaging for children. Odiham Castle Ruins is a peaceful spot for walks and picnics along the Basingstoke Canal, and its unique octagonal keep sparks imagination. The Vyne, a stately home with castle features, also offers woodland walks and family events.
Are there any castles in Hampshire that are free to visit?
Yes, Odiham Castle Ruins is free to visit and offers a fascinating glimpse into 13th-century history. Additionally, Wolvesey Castle (Old Bishop's Palace), managed by English Heritage, is free to enter daily from April to October.
What historical periods do Hampshire's castles represent?
Hampshire's castles span a wide range of historical periods. Portchester Castle is unique for its Roman fortifications with a Norman castle built within. Odiham Castle dates back to the 13th century, built by King John. Tudor coastal defenses like Hurst Castle and Calshot Castle were built by Henry VIII. The Great Hall in Winchester, part of Winchester Castle, is a 13th-century medieval hall.
Can I explore walking or hiking trails near Hampshire's castles?
Absolutely. Many castles are situated near scenic routes. For instance, Odiham Castle Ruins is located along the Basingstoke Canal, perfect for peaceful walks. The journey to Hurst Castle can be a scenic walk from Milford-on-Sea. You can find various hiking options in the region, including easy hikes like the 'Solent Way: Keyhaven to Hurst Castle' route. Explore more options in the Easy hikes in Hampshire guide.
Are there cycling routes that pass by castles in Hampshire?
Yes, the region offers several cycling opportunities. The area around Odiham Castle Ruins along the Basingstoke Canal is suitable for cycling. You can also find routes like 'Merdon Castle Lane' which is a cycle way. For more cycling adventures, check out the Cycling in Hampshire guide, which includes routes through the New Forest National Park.
Which castles offer the best views in Hampshire?
For stunning panoramic views, Portchester Castle allows you to climb its keep for vistas across Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent. Hurst Castle, located at the end of a shingle spit, provides spectacular views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. Calshot Castle also offers fantastic views across the Solent from its roof.
What unique architectural features can I find among Hampshire's castles?
Hampshire's castles boast several unique architectural elements. Portchester Castle features one of the best-preserved Roman fortifications in Europe, with a 12th-century Norman keep inside. Odiham Castle is notable for its rare octagonal keep. The Great Hall in Winchester is considered one of the finest surviving medieval halls in England, housing the legendary Round Table.
Are there any castles in Hampshire with connections to famous historical figures?
Yes, several castles have strong historical connections. Odiham Castle was built by King John and is believed to be where he stayed before sealing the Magna Carta. Hurst Castle and Calshot Castle were both built by Henry VIII as coastal defenses. The Great Hall in Winchester is famously associated with King Arthur and his Round Table.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Hampshire?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor grounds and ruins of Hampshire's castles. During these times, many sites, like Wolvesey Castle, are fully open. However, indoor attractions and some sites like Portchester Castle are open year-round, offering a different, often quieter, experience in the cooler months.
Are there any castles in Hampshire that are dog-friendly?
Yes, some castles and their grounds are dog-friendly. For example, The Vyne, a stately home with castle features, welcomes dogs on leads in its grounds, Morgaston Woods, and Organic Parklands. It's always best to check specific castle websites for their most current dog policies before visiting.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Hampshire's castles?
Hampshire's castles are often set amidst diverse natural landscapes. Coastal defenses like Hurst Castle and Calshot Castle offer views of the Solent and are near beaches. Odiham Castle Ruins is located beside the tranquil Basingstoke Canal. The Vyne features large woodlands and wetlands, providing opportunities for nature walks and wildlife spotting.
Where can I find information about opening hours and tickets for Hampshire castles?
For castles managed by English Heritage, such as Portchester Castle and Hurst Castle, you can find detailed visitor information, including opening hours and ticket booking, on their official website. Booking online in advance can often save money on ticket prices. For Wolvesey Castle, which is free to enter, check the English Heritage site for seasonal access details.
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