Our journey begins with the picturesque ruins of Wallingford Castle, located on the banks of the Thames. This place, which was once one of the most powerful fortresses in England, today impresses with its romantic landscape and rich history. Wallingford Castle, built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, played a key role in many historical events, including the civil war known as the 'Anarchy' in the 12th century.

Today, although little remains of the castle, the area offers many attractions for visitors. The extensive green areas are ideal for a family picnic or a relaxing walk. Children will enjoy exploring the ruins and discovering traces of the past. Numerous information boards located on the site help to understand the history and significance of the place.

One of Wallingford Castle's greatest strengths is its accessibility - admission to the grounds is free, making it an ideal destination for families looking for economical vacation options. Parking is located just inside the entrance, although the number of spaces is limited. It's worth remembering that the grounds can be a bit muddy after rain, so proper footwear is recommended.

Visitor reviews highlight the charm of the place: 'There's not much left, but the grounds are very nice, and it's always nice to have something as historic as a castle ruin in your town by the river,' writes one visitor. Others praise the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to commune with history: 'It's a great place to walk around and enjoy the relatively flat terrain. A place of historical significance with helpful signs explaining the history of the castle.

Wallingford Castle is an ideal place for those who appreciate the combination of history and nature. Not only is it an outdoor history lesson, but also an opportunity to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Keep in mind that although the castle itself is in ruins, the surrounding town of Wallingford offers many charming pubs and restaurants where you can relax after sightseeing and enjoy local specialties.

The next stop on our tour is Oxford Castle & Prison, a place that combines elements of a medieval castle and a Victorian prison. This fascinating blend of history makes it one of the most intriguing attractions in Oxfordshire. The castle, which dates back to 1071, has served a variety of functions over the centuries, from a royal fortress to a place of confinement for the most dangerous criminals.

A tour of Oxford Castle & Prison is a real trip back in time. There is a fee to enter (£12.5 per adult, as of 2023), but the ticket price includes a guided tour, which greatly enhances the experience. The guides, often dressed in historical costumes, passionately recount the turbulent history of the castle and prison, interweaving historical facts with fascinating anecdotes.

One of the most impressive features of the complex is Saxon St. George's Tower, a tower offering panoramic views of Oxford. Climbing to the top can be a challenge, but the views are worth the effort. There are medieval crypts in the castle's basement, which add an element of mystery and horror to the tour.

Oxford Castle & Prison is a place that will especially appeal to lovers of criminal history. Here you can see authentic prison cells and learn about the living conditions of prisoners over the centuries. It's also a great opportunity to learn about the lesser-known side of the history of Oxford, a city mainly associated with its prestigious university.

Feedback from visitors is mostly very positive. One visitor writes: 'Super place to visit in Oxford! The castle and prison is an interesting attraction where we can learn a bit of history - I myself learned a few things I had never heard of before'. Others praise the commitment and humor of the guides, who are able to convey the history of the place in a fascinating way.

It is worth noting, however, that some visitors find the ticket price a bit excessive in relation to the size of the site. In addition, the tour is conducted only with an English-speaking guide, which can be a bit of a barrier for non-native speakers. The lack of audio guides or materials in other languages is often cited as a downside.

Despite these minor inconveniences, Oxford Castle & Prison remains a fascinating site that offers a unique look at English history. It's ideal for families with slightly older children who are interested in history and aren't afraid of darker tales. The tour lasts about an hour, but the impressions remain long after leaving the walls of this remarkable place.

The last, but certainly not the least important point of our tour of medieval Oxfordshire castles is Uffington Castle. This place, although very different from the traditional idea of a castle, is a fascinating example of prehistoric defensive architecture that survived into the Middle Ages and beyond.

Uffington Castle is actually a hilltop fort dating back to the Iron Age, some 3,000 years ago. Today, all that remains of it is an earthen rampart that surrounds an area of about 3 hectares. Although little remains of the original structure, the site has an unusual magnetic pull to it.

One of the main attractions of Uffington Castle is the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The hill on which the fort is located offers a panorama that is breathtaking, especially on sunny days. It's the perfect place for landscape photography enthusiasts and those looking for a moment of peace and contact with nature.

Not far from the fort is the famous Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric geoglyph carved into the side of a chalk hill. This enigmatic horse figure, visible from a great distance, adds to the mystery of the place and makes a visit to Uffington Castle a truly magical experience.

Admission to Uffington Castle is free, making it an attractive option for families looking for a budget solution. There is a charge for parking (£2 for 2 hours or £4 for a full day, as of 2023), but prices are reasonable. It's worth remembering that the area is quite extensive and requires considerable physical exertion, especially when climbing the hill.

Visitor reviews are enthusiastic. One visitor writes: 'Uffington is absolutely beautiful and very relaxing. The views are beautiful and the weather is gorgeous'. Another adds, 'Phenomenal walk through the land of sheep and once a castle. (...) the walk across the field past all the sheep and up the hill was relaxing and the views simply stunning.'

However, it's worth bearing in mind that Uffington Castle is a place for those who enjoy active recreation and are prepared for field conditions. There is no tourist infrastructure here - no toilets or food outlets. It's a pure, raw experience of nature and history.

Comparing Uffington Castle with the previously discussed castles, it stands out for its prehistoric origins and natural scenic qualities. While Wallingford Castle offers romantic ruins and Oxford Castle & Prison a wealth of medieval and modern history, Uffington Castle takes us even further into the past, allowing us to imagine the lives of people thousands of years ago.

All in all, each of the described castles in Oxfordshire offers a unique experience. Wallingford Castle impresses with its picturesque ruins and peaceful atmosphere. Oxford Castle & Prison fascinates with its rich history and interactive tours. Uffington Castle captivates with its prehistoric mystery and beautiful views. Whichever you choose, each will provide an unforgettable experience and allow you to feel the magic of medieval England.