History Lesson: A Journey Through the UK’s Iconic Castles

With over 4,000 castles scattered across its landscape, the United Kingdom is steeped in stories of ancient strongholds, royal residences, and enduring legends. From the windswept coastlines of Guernsey to the lush parklands of County Cork, each castle holds a unique piece of history. Let’s step back in time and explore the fascinating histories that these castles continue to share with visitors today.

BLARNEY CASTLE

County Cork’s very own Blarney Castle is set in more than 60 acres of beautiful parkland, filled with rare flora and is steeped in history. This medieval stronghold is thought to have undergone three transformations; originally as a timber structure in the 10th century, then a stone building in 1210 and finally, in the 1400s, the majestic castle it is today.

Did you know?
There is a mysterious block of bluestone set into the walls of the castle called the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that a smooch with the slab bestows upon the kisser great eloquence – although it is not for the faint of heart, as you have to lie down and bend backwards over a gap to pucker up! Whether you decide to or not, the stone is considered legendary in Ireland and, over many decades, numerous men and women have kissed the stone in hopes of all it promises.

CASTLE CORNET

Situated at the mouth of St Peter Port in Guernsey, this 800-year-old castle offers fascinating history with wonderful views of the sea and across to the other islands of Herm, Sark and Alderney. It’s one of the first things that visitors will see when disembarking from a ship. The fortress was originally built in the 13th century to defend the Channel Islands from attacks by the French.

Did you know?
During the 12th century there was a family of merchants of the Cornet name living in Guernsey. It’s thought that the islet may have been owned, or used, by this prominent local family to hunt rabbits that they would have kept in a warren there, thus acquiring its name.

EDINBURGH CASTLE

Overlooking the Scottish capital from Castle Rock, there has been a castle here since the 12th century, which was a royal residence until 1633. Castle Rock is actually a volcano, so not only can you say you’ve visited a castle if you come here, but a volcano too. It’s also thought to be haunted by the Lone Piper, so best not to visit after dark!

Did you know?
The castle features historic exhibitions and Scottish regalia including the Stone of Destiny and the Honours of Scotland. The Stone of Destiny is an ancient part of Scottish history and was used for centuries to inaugurate kings. The Honours of Scotland is the collective name for a jewel-encrusted crown, an elaborate sword and a sceptre. They are the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, first worn in 1540 by Queen Mary of Guise.

WINDSOR CASTLE

As both the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, it’s only right that any article about British castles features Windsor. A royal residence dating back to the late 11th century, Windsor Castle is as large a part of the British Monarchy today as it was hundreds of years ago. Originally built by William the Conqueror as a part of a defence ring around London, the castle has been home to 20 kings and queens over the years and many royal figures have been laid to rest there.

Did you know?
Windsor Castle has more than 450 clocks. So when it comes to daylight savings hours, it takes resident horologists around 40 hours of work to prepare and around 16 hours to turn all 450 clocks forward or backward.

If you’re looking to enjoy a cruise to the British Isles or Channel Islands, then hopefully this article has given you an insight into some of the attractions and sites you can see. For more articles, make sure you check out the Ambassador cruise blog.