Our journey begins with Gloucestershire's most impressive fortresses, which for centuries have guarded the borders and witnessed key events in English history.

Goodrich Castle is a true gem of medieval defensive architecture. Situated on a high rocky hill overlooking the River Wye, this castle is a fine example of Norman fortification art. Built after the Norman invasion in 1101, Goodrich Castle impresses with its austere but majestic exterior. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, climb the towers and enjoy panoramic views of the area. The castle offers interactive exhibitions and an audioguide that takes a closer look at its fascinating history. Note the well-preserved chapel and kitchen, which give an idea of daily life in a medieval fortress. Ticket prices start at £9 for an adult, and parking costs about £4 (as of 2023).

Chepstow Castle, though technically located in Wales, is close enough to the Gloucestershire border to merit a mention in our list. Located on the River Wye, this impressive castle is one of the oldest Norman castles in Britain. Its construction began just a year after the Battle of Hastings, making it a witness to almost all of England's history since the Norman Conquest. Chepstow Castle is famous for having the oldest doors in Europe, which can be seen in its impressive gatehouse. Although parts of the castle fell into disrepair after the Civil War, it still impresses with its monumental architecture and picturesque location. Ticket prices are around £8.70 for adults and £6.10 for children (as of 2023).

St Briavels Castle, while lesser known than its grand neighbors, offers a unique experience for visitors. This 13th-century castle, now operating as a youth hostel, allows you to literally immerse yourself in history by spending a night within the medieval walls. The castle has retained many of its original features, including an impressive entrance gate and tower. While not as sprawling as Goodrich or Chepstow, St Briavels offers an intimate atmosphere and a chance to feel the spirit of the Middle Ages. It's an ideal place for those who want to combine sightseeing with a unique lodging experience.

Each of these castles offers a slightly different experience, but all are a testament to the region's turbulent history and the mastery of medieval builders. Goodrich and Chepstow are ideal for history and architecture lovers, offering extensive ruins to explore and beautiful views. St Briavels, on the other hand, is a great option for adventurers who want to spend the night in an authentic medieval castle. Regardless of your choice, each of these castles guarantees an unforgettable experience and a trip back in time to a fascinating era of knights and castles.

In this part of our Gloucestershire castles tour, we will focus on structures that combine defensive functions with the luxury of residences. These castles bear witness to the evolution of defensive architecture into more comfortable and representative residences of the mighty.

Warwick Castle, although located outside Gloucestershire, is close enough and impressive enough to merit a place in our compilation. One of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, this monumental castle offers an unparalleled time travel experience. Built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, Warwick Castle has been expanded and improved over the centuries, becoming a true jewel of defensive and residential architecture. Visitors can admire the imposing defensive walls, climb the towers offering spectacular views, and explore the richly decorated chambers full of valuable artwork and furniture. The castle is famous for its interactive exhibitions and historical shows that transport visitors to different historical eras. Ticket prices range from £20 to £32 for adults, depending on the season and selected attractions (as of 2023).

Longford Castle, while less well-known than Warwick, is equally fascinating. This 16th-century mansion, located near Salisbury, combines elements of Elizabethan and Victorian architecture to create a unique and impressive establishment. The castle is famous for its extensive art collection, including paintings by such masters as Reynolds, Gainsborough and van Dyck. Tours of the castle are conducted in small groups with a guide, allowing visitors to get a close look at the history and treasures of the place. Note the castle's unusual triangular form, inspired by French Renaissance architecture. Tickets for tours of the castle are available through the National Gallery and often sell out quickly, a testament to the popularity of the place.

Blaise Castle, located on the outskirts of Bristol, offers a slightly different experience. It is an 18th-century neo-Gothic villa that, while not a typical fortified castle, is stunning in its architecture and the beautiful gardens that surround it. The castle is part of an extensive city park, making it ideal for a family picnic combined with sightseeing. The castle's interior contains interesting historical collections, and the surrounding grounds offer scenic walking paths and playgrounds for children.

Each of these facilities offers a unique experience. Warwick Castle is ideal for families with children and lovers of living history, offering numerous interactive attractions and displays. Longford Castle is a treat for connoisseurs of art and architecture, offering a more intimate and exclusive touring experience. Blaise Castle, on the other hand, is a great option for those who want to combine sightseeing with outdoor relaxation. All of these places have one thing in common - they are a testament to England's architectural richness and diversity, offering a fascinating journey through centuries of history and culture.

In the final part of our tour of Gloucestershire castles, we will focus on lesser-known but equally fascinating sites that offer a unique perspective on the region's history and architecture.

Skenfrith Castle, despite being located just across the Gloucestershire border in Wales, is an important part of the region's historic landscape. This 13th-century castle, though now in ruins, impresses with its picturesque location on the banks of the Monnow River. Skenfrith is part of the so-called 'Three Castles' along with Grosmont and White Castle, which together formed the defense system of the Anglo-Welsh borderlands. The castle offers free tours, making it an attractive option for travelers on a budget. Although not many of the original buildings remain, the circular tower and fragments of the defensive walls give an idea of the former power of this fortress. The castle's surroundings are an ideal place to picnic and relax by the river.

Old Wardour Castle, located on the border of Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, is a fascinating example of innovative 16th century defensive architecture. Built on a hexagonal plan, it was inspired by Italian Renaissance fortresses. Although it was partially destroyed during the English Civil War, its ruins are still impressive. The castle is surrounded by a picturesque landscaped park, making it an ideal place for a family outing. Note the preserved decorative elements, proving that it was not only a defensive structure, but also a luxurious residence.

Belas Knap Long Barrow, while not a castle in the traditional sense, is a fascinating example of prehistoric defensive and burial architecture. Dating to around 3,000 BC, this Neolithic barrow offers a unique glimpse into the region's most ancient history. Although reaching Belas Knap requires a bit of effort - you have to climb a rather steep hill - the views and atmosphere of the site fully reward the effort. This is an ideal place for lovers of prehistory and those seeking peace and quiet away from the crowds of tourists.

Gloucester Cathedral, although not a castle, deserves a mention in our list for its impressive architecture and historical significance. This nearly 1,000-year-old building combines elements of Norman, Gothic and Late Gothic architecture, creating a stunning example of the evolution of architectural style over the centuries. The cathedral is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive vaulting and the crypt where King Edward II is laid to rest. Note the cloisters, which served as the setting for the Harry Potter films.

Each of these places offers a unique experience. Skenfrith Castle and Old Wardour are ideal for lovers of ruins and picturesque landscapes. Belas Knap is a treat for prehistory enthusiasts and those looking for lesser-known attractions. Gloucester Cathedral, on the other hand, is a must-see for lovers of religious architecture and history. All of these sites have one thing in common - they bear witness to Gloucestershire's rich and varied history, offering a fascinating journey through millennia of human activity in the region.

To summarize our tour of Gloucestershire's castles, it's worth noting how diverse the sites are - from massive defensive fortresses to luxurious mansions to prehistoric barrows. Each tells a different story, but together they form a fascinating picture of the evolution of architecture and society over the centuries. Whether you're a lover of history, architecture or simply looking for inspiring places for a family trip, Gloucestershire's castles certainly won't disappoint you. We encourage you to discover these remarkable sites in person and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this region of England.