Top 4 Castles around Grimstead
Best castles around Grimstead are found in a region steeped in history, primarily within the Wiltshire countryside. This area features ancient settlements, medieval palaces, and historic earthworks, offering insights into over 2,000 years of historical events. The landscape provides varied settings for exploring these sites, from elevated ruins with expansive views to landscaped gardens surrounding ancient fortifications.
Best castles around Grimstead
- The most popular castles is Old Sarum Ruins, a settlement that allows visitors to stand in the footprint…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Old Sarum Ruins
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The Moot and Moot House, Downton
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Old Sarum Ancient Settlement
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Clarendon Palace Ruins
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Castle Hill, Salisbury
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Tips from the Community
"Discover the story of the original Salisbury and take the family for an action-packed day out at Old Sarum. Stand in the footprint of Salisbury's first cathedral, conquer the ruins of the royal castle, and discover the awe-inspiring landscape where it all began. One of the South’s most significant historic sites – William the Conqueror once hosted a great gathering at Old Sarum. Soak up the atmosphere as you explore a city lost to time. There’s over 2,000 years of history to discover, as well as unrivalled views across the Wiltshire countryside. (Text from https://www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/salisbury/things-to-do/old-sarum-p133943 )
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We stayed here for the Enve Stone Circle Ride and it was absolutely beautiful!
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The Moot boasts the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle, the earthworks of which can still be explored today. The impressive Moot House was built in the 17th century and was host to an earthen amphitheatre where many plays, particularly Shakespeare's, were performed. It all makes for an interesting detour when running along the Avon Valley Path.
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Good trip for hiking or cycling with some interesting history. Not to far from Stonehenge
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Castle Hill in Salisbury is home to the historic Salisbury Castle, which dates back to the 11th century. The castle ruins are free to explore, and you'll be afforded some wonderful views of the surrounding countryside whilst you navigate your way around.
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Located here are the remains of a medieval palace built by Henry II in the 12th century. The palace was a favourite residence amongst British monarchs and was known for its beautiful gardens and for being the site where the Constitutions of Clarendon were issued in 1164. The palace was destroyed during the English Civil War in the 17th century, but its ruins can still be visited today
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In 1070 William the Conqueror mustered troops at Clarendon, the site was named in documents for the first time in the twelfth century.
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There's a small cafe just inside the main gate - you can bring your bike in and prop it up on the slope opposite the cafe and purchase some refreshments (without paying the full entry price). There are toilets in the car park too, which might be useful!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Grimstead are suitable for families?
Several castles in the area are great for families. Old Sarum Ruins offers an action-packed day exploring the footprint of Salisbury's first cathedral and royal castle. The Moot and Moot House, Downton, provides extensive landscaped gardens around the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Mottisfont House and Gardens, with its stunning gardens and medieval priory, is also a family-friendly National Trust property.
Are there any free castles to visit near Grimstead?
Yes, The Moot and Moot House, Downton, offers free public access to its landscaped gardens and the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle. It's a great spot for a relaxed visit.
What kind of historical sites can I explore besides castles?
Beyond the castles themselves, you can delve into deeper history. Old Sarum Ruins is not just a castle but also the site of Salisbury's earliest settlement, with over 2,000 years of history from Roman conquest to Norman rule. The Moot and Moot House, Downton, is next to the remains of a Roman Villa, highlighting the region's ancient past.
Can I go hiking near the castles around Grimstead?
Absolutely. The area offers various hiking opportunities. For example, you can explore the Clarendon Palace Ruins as part of the 'All Saints Church, Farley – Clarendon Palace Ruins loop from Pitton and Farley' hiking route. The 'Avon Valley Path: Downton Loop' also passes near The Moot and Moot House, Downton. You can find more hiking routes in the Hiking around Grimstead guide.
What are the entry fees and opening times for the castles?
Entry fees and opening times vary by location. Old Sarum Ruins (managed by English Heritage) typically costs £5.40 per adult and is open from 10am - 4pm Friday to Sunday. Mottisfont House and Gardens (National Trust) costs £13 for adults. The Moot and Moot House, Downton, is free to the public. It's always advisable to check the official websites for the most current information before your visit.
Are there any castles with good viewpoints?
Yes, Old Sarum Ruins offers unrivalled views across the Wiltshire countryside from its elevated position. It's an excellent spot to take in the surrounding landscape.
Which castle was a royal residence?
Clarendon Palace Ruins was a medieval palace built by Henry II in the 12th century and was a favourite residence among British monarchs. It was also the site where the Constitutions of Clarendon were issued in 1164.
Can I combine a castle visit with cycling?
Yes, you can. The area around Grimstead offers various cycling routes. For instance, you could plan a route that includes Mottisfont House and Gardens, as it's often featured in local cycling guides. Explore options in the Cycling around Grimstead guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Grimstead guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles?
The castles and their surrounding areas can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins and gardens, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, a crisp walk around sites like Old Sarum Ruins or The Moot and Moot House, Downton can be very rewarding, often with fewer crowds.
Are there any castles that are less well-known but worth visiting?
The Moot and Moot House, Downton, is a hidden gem located in the tiny village of Downton. It features the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle within extensive landscaped gardens, offering a peaceful and historically rich experience away from the more prominent sites.
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