The county of Cheshire in the North West of England is one of the most diverse and gorgeous regions of the entire country; with its abundance of natural treasures, as well as its multitude of bustling towns and scenic villages, Cheshire and all of its gems is an enormous tourist attraction for visitors wishing to uncover the real England.
As well as this, there is also a selection on historic castles in the county of Cheshire, that are some of the most fascinating and well-preserved in the entire country. Here is a list of the best castles in Cheshire:
4 Beautiful Castles to Visit in Cheshire
1. Beeston castle
Located in the historic village of Beeston in Cheshire, lies the stunning Beeston Castle. This castle has a long and expansive history, that originally dates back to prehistoric times; there is evidence to suggest that the site has been inhabited since the Neolithic period after flint arrowheads were discovered.
The first castle was originally constructed at the turn of the 13th century after it was built for the 6th Earl of Chester, Ranulf de Blondeville; in its early life, Beeston Castle was primarily used as a fortification that was used to defend and attack, during an era were battle and conflict were consistently a threat.
Later, the castle changed its primary function to that of a Royal castle, and there is said to be treasure hidden by Richard II in the castle grounds. Today, Beeston Castle is a protected tourist attraction and makes for a fantastic day out.
Where: Beeston, Cheshire
When: 13th century
Style: Medieval
Open for visit: Yes. Check here for more information.
2. Chester Castle: Agricola Tower and castle walls
Situated in the heart of the city of Chester, in the county of Cheshire, lies the beautiful Chester Castle. Chester Castle was originally constructed in the year 1070, by Hugh d’Avranches, who was the second Earl of Chester; it is believed that this modern castle was built on the grounds of an earlier existing fortification constructed by the Saxons.
This early castle was a motte and bailey structure, and it was not rebuilt into stone until the 12th century, at which point the Agricola Tower was also added. Over the centuries, the castle was constantly added to, and it was resided in by many nobles and royals; it was also a prison for many notable prisoners, including Richard II and Andrew de Moray.
Today, Chester Castle, the Agricola Tower and the remaining Castle Walls are all open to the general public, and there is also a fascinating museum onsite; it is a great way to explore the history of the area.
Where: Chester, Cheshire
When: 1070
Style: Medieval
Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information.
3. Halton Castle
The fantastic Halton Castle is a historic castle situated near to the Cheshire town of Runcorn, in the sleepy village of Halton. Though there is evidence to suggest that there was inhabitation on Halton Hill during the prehistoric era, the castle itself was constructed in the year 1071, after the land was given to Nigel of Cotentin by Huge d’Avranches, who was the Earl of Chester; at this point, an early motte and bailey structure was in place.
During the 13th century, this castle was converted into a sandstone castle, which is the form in which it stands today; it was later transferred to the hands of the Duchy of Lancaster, and it was visited by several Kings and nobles throughout the following years, such as King John and Edward II. To this day, Halton Castle is still owned by the Duchy of Lancaster, and it is occasionally open to the public; it is a Grade II listed building and offers some incredible views.
Where: Halton, Cheshire
When: 1071
Style: Tudor
Open for visit: Limited opening times; ensure you check the castle website before visiting.
4. Frodsham Castle
Situated in the scenic market town of Frodsham in the country of Cheshire, is the beautiful and historic Frodsham Castle. With its origins dating back to the year 1070, after it is believed to have been built by the Earl of Chester, Hugh Lupus; it would have likely been built as a timber structure, though it entirely collapsed during the 14th century.
It was later rebuilt, and followed the style of a fortified manor house rather than a castle; it was nonetheless very well protected. Sadly, in the late 17th century, the castle was heavily damaged by a fire and was eventually left to ruin. Though the castle is still in a ruined state, it is nonetheless open to the general public as part of a larger house, Castle Park House, and it is available to visit and explore.
Where: Frodsham, Cheshire
When: 1070
Style: Medieval
Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information.
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