Top 3 Castles around Eastwood
Best castles around Eastwood are found near the town of Eastwood in Nottinghamshire, England. This region is characterized by its historical landscape and proximity to Sherwood Forest. The area offers a variety of historical sites, from medieval ruins to grand country estates. It provides opportunities for exploring significant heritage within a scenic setting.
Best castles around Eastwood
- The most popular castles is Newstead Abbey, a historical site that was once an Augustinian priory. It is famously known as the…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Newstead Abbey
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Back in medieval times, outlaws would often …
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Codnor Castle Ruins
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Wollaton Hall
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The park that surrounds the hall is a lovely place for …
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Horsley Castle
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Annesley Castle Motte and Bailey Site
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It was a Norman motte and bailey castle which was founded by Ralph de Buron. In the 13th century King John built a stone castle, adding a keep, a chapel, a gatehouse and a barbican. In 1514 it was granted by Henry VIII to the Duke of Norfolk as a reward for services against the Scots. Later it came into the possession of the Stanhope family. The castle is ruined today, damaged by extensive quarrying. There are visible remains of the keep although this is now largely overgrown.
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Always worth a visit to Newstead Abbey it's a beautiful building with wonderful gardens to wonder around and get lost in the beauty
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Newstead Abbey, located in Nottinghamshire, England, originally served as an Augustinian priory. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it was converted into a private residence. Today, it is most renowned as the ancestral home of Lord Byron. The priory of St. Mary of Newstead, established by King Henry II of England around 1170, was a house for Augustinian Canons. Despite its present name, Newstead was never an abbey but rather a priory.
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An early 13th century motte and bailey castle in Annesley Park. The motte is 120 feet wide, but now stands only 6 feet high. The bailey was defended by a bank and moat, but only traces of this are now visible.
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Updated 2024, access to the castle is now severely limited due to the new land owner, can only be viewed from a fenced path across the field. The Codnor castle heritage trust is no longer involved with on site activities.
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It is not for nothing that the building and park were used by Warner Bros in 2012 as a backdrop for the Batman film “The Dark Knight Rises”. selected. A really beautiful building that stands out on the hill and the park around it. Unfortunately, like many (if not all) historic buildings in and around Nottingham, it only opens from 11am.
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The castle is on private land, having been sold off. English Heritage maintains the ruins...but there's no access to the site other than a footpath, which goes past it.
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Newstead Abbey was a 12th centaury monastery. Over the years it became home to Romantic Poet Lord Byron. The abbey and the grounds are open to visitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical sites can I explore around Eastwood?
Around Eastwood, you can explore a diverse range of historical sites, from medieval castle ruins to grand country estates and former priories. Examples include the magnificent Newstead Abbey, a former Augustinian priory, and the Elizabethan country house Wollaton Hall. You can also visit the atmospheric medieval ruins of Codnor Castle Ruins.
Are there family-friendly castles or historical sites near Eastwood?
Yes, several sites near Eastwood are great for families. Newstead Abbey offers beautiful gardens and historical exploration, while Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan country house, features a natural history museum and a park where wild deer roam, providing plenty for children to enjoy.
Which castles near Eastwood offer a glimpse into medieval history?
For a true medieval experience, visit Codnor Castle Ruins, once the seat of the De Grey family. Though in ruins, it offers a tangible connection to the past. Additionally, Horsley Castle and Annesley Castle Motte and Bailey Site are other medieval ruins that provide insight into the region's early history.
Can I visit Nottingham Castle from Eastwood?
Yes, Nottingham Castle is approximately 9 miles from Eastwood. Originally a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, it now features a 17th-century ducal mansion housing a museum and art gallery, along with impressive sandstone caves. It's a significant historical site worth visiting for its rich history and cultural offerings.
Are there any dog-friendly walks around the castles near Eastwood?
Yes, Codnor Castle Ruins is noted as being accessible with big dogs, as the stiles have gaps. The surrounding area often offers walking opportunities, but it's always best to check specific site rules regarding dogs before your visit.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see near these castles?
Many historical sites are set within beautiful natural landscapes. For example, Newstead Abbey boasts magnificent gardens, including a Japanese water garden. Wollaton Hall is surrounded by a large park with fallow deer and a lake with a nature trail.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Eastwood?
The area around Eastwood offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, mountain biking trails, and easy hikes. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'View of Bennerley Viaduct – Bennerley Viaduct loop' from Eastwood. You can explore more options on the Easy hikes around Eastwood guide, the Road Cycling Routes around Eastwood guide, or the MTB Trails around Eastwood guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and historical sites near Eastwood?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and diverse architectural styles, from medieval ruins to grand estates. The beautiful gardens at places like Newstead Abbey and the wildlife in the park at Wollaton Hall are frequently highlighted. The tangible connection to the past offered by sites like Codnor Castle Ruins is also a popular draw.
Is Bolsover Castle easily accessible from Eastwood?
Bolsover Castle is located in Derbyshire, approximately 14.8 miles from Eastwood. It's a 17th-century 'fairy-tale' castle known for its unique architectural style, grand riding school, and well-preserved interiors, making it a worthwhile day trip from Eastwood.
What is the best time of year to visit castles around Eastwood?
The best time to visit castles and historical sites around Eastwood is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and gardens are in full bloom. However, many sites, especially those with indoor museums like Nottingham Castle or Wollaton Hall, are open year-round. Always check specific opening times before planning your visit.
Are there any hidden gems among the historical sites near Eastwood?
While popular sites like Newstead Abbey and Wollaton Hall are well-known, the atmospheric Codnor Castle Ruins, Horsley Castle, and Annesley Castle Motte and Bailey Site offer a more rugged, less-trodden experience for those interested in exploring medieval ruins.
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