Great Britain has a rich history and culture, which can be seen in the many iconic estates spread throughout its countries. The best castles, palaces and stately homes will offer a glimpse into the past, and each one is an architectural marvel with a unique story to tell.
Whether you were storing a caravan over the offseason or instead enjoyed some winter caravanning, chances are you will be thinking about your trips for the upcoming season and planning the various destinations to visit.
If you’re after some inspiration, our curated list of the best examples will help you discover a wealth of treasures, whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply love exploring new places – plus, we reveal the best caravan sites to stay at nearby too!
Buckingham Palace
- London, England
Arguably the most famous royal residence in the world, Buckingham Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring London. Visitors can watch the iconic Changing of
the Guard ceremony – the formal handover between soldiers on duty, known as the Old Guard, and the New Guard who relieve them.
If you visit during the summer months, you will be able to explore the State Rooms, including the Throne Room and the Ballroom, and feast your eyes on the exquisite art and furnishings inside. Finally, step outside and explore the delights of Buckingham Palace Garden – the largest private garden in London – which is home to more than 1000 trees and the site of various important events in the royal calendar.
Stay at… Crystal Palace CAMC Site – note this site is inside the London Low Emission Zone and was one of our picks for the best caravan park in London.
Glamis Castle
- Angus, Scotland
This 14th-century castle, sited in the heart of Angus, was the childhood home of the Queen Mother and the birthplace of Princess Margaret. Known for its distinctive turrets, towers and sprawling gardens, Glamis Castle has been the ancestral seat to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since 1372. Mary Queen of Scots visited the castle in 1562 on her way north to quell a rebellion started by disenchanted Scottish Catholics. To learn about the role of Glamis Castle during more than 650 years of Scottish history, take a guided tour around its magnificent rooms, explore the family collections, and check out the seasonal exhibitions.
When you step outside, you will be amazed by the vibrant flowers in the stunning Walled Garden, and the colourful blooms in the tranquil Italian Garden. If you’re looking for
some adventure, take a walk on the Nature Trail and explore the woodlands surrounding the castle, or follow the Macbeth Trail, which showcases seven wooden sculptures inspired by Shakespeare’s iconic play.
Stay at… Drumshademuir Caravan Park
Warwick Castle
- Warwickshire, England
Standing proudly on the banks of the River Avon, Warwick Castle boasts a rich heritage dating back to the reign of William the Conqueror, offering visitors more than 1000 years of history to explore. The castle has a variety of attractions to investigate, making it the perfect destination for a family day out.
You can check out the Great Hall & State Rooms, the Time Tower, the Horrible Histories Maze and playgrounds, and also enjoy daily entertainment and live shows. These include the Castle Dungeon, the Falconer’s Quest (the largest bird of prey display in the UK), and free talks by expert historians.
Stay at… Warwick Racecourse CAMC Site
Chatsworth House
- Derbyshire, England
Chatsworth House, situated in Derbyshire’s Peak District, is one of the most popular stately homes in Great Britain. The Grade I listed house has been owned by the Cavendish family for generations, and contains more than 30 rooms for visitors to explore. Among these are the opulent State Rooms, the Chapel, the Sculpture Gallery and the iconic Painted Hall, which greets guests at the start of their visit.
The gardens of Chatsworth, which cover an astonishing 105 acres, offer visitors more than five miles of walks, with numerous highlights such as the Cottage and Kitchen Gardens, the Maze and the Cascade – the latter being a water feature that is more than 300 years old. The house has also been used in several films and TV shows, including Pride and Prejudice – check out our list of the top TV and film locations for more ideas on similar destinations to visit.
Stay at… Chatsworth Park CAMC Site
Blenheim Palace
- Oxfordshire, England
Blenheim Palace is an astonishing example of English Baroque architecture. It was built in the early 18th century as a gift from Queen Anne and the nation for John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, following his victory in the Battle of Blenheim in 1704 – it has remained the home of the Duke of Marlborough ever since. Today, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it offers numerous attractions for visitors to learn about its extraordinary history, as well as various events throughout the year.
You can take a guided tour and explore the magnificent Long Library, which houses more than 10,000 books, or the State Rooms, which showcase an impressive collection of art. Additionally, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscaped park, designed by the renowned Capability Brown. Blenheim Palace is also the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, and it has a Churchill Exhibition for visitors to learn more about his life.
Stay at… Greenhill Leisure Park
Powis Castle
- Welshpool, Wales
Powis Castle is a medieval fortress built in the 13th century and located in the picturesque Welsh countryside. For more than 400 years the castle was the seat of the Herbert family, who remodelled the property into a grand home. Visitors can explore the history of the castle by wandering through the State Rooms, which house an extraordinary collection of sculptures, paintings, furniture and more.
The castle also features an Edwardian Formal Garden, perfect for a tranquil stroll. Additionally, Powis Castle is home to the Clive Museum, which carries a vast collection of South and East Asian artefacts dating from around 1600 to the 1830s. These artefacts were amassed during the British colonisation of India.
Stay at… Rhyd-y-Groes Touring Park
Hampton Court Palace
- Surrey, England
One of the most iconic palaces in Britain, Hampton Court Palace is home to more than 500 years of British royal history. Originally built during the reign of King Henry VIII, it was significantly rebuilt and expanded during the reign of King William III and Queen Mary II, and so the palace includes both Tudor and Baroque architecture.
Step back in time and explore the history of the Tudor court with a visit to King Henry VIII’s kitchens, the Chapel Royal and the Great Hall, where you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Anne Boleyn’s initials and coat of arms.
Fancy learning more about the Stuart and Georgian royals who resided at the palace? Take a walk along the Long Water – the garden canal commissioned by King Charles II – and explore the beautiful Baroque gardens, as well as William III’s state apartments.
Stay at… Walton on Thames C&CC Site
Castle Howard
- North Yorkshire, England
This magnificent 18th-century stately home in North Yorkshire is considered one of the finest in Great Britain, yet is not as well known in comparison to other places on this list. You may recognise it as a popular filming location, featured in series such as Death Comes to Pemberley, Victoria and Bridgerton. Castle Howard offers guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about the home and its history, and has a regular programme of specialist tours, exhibitions and events.
History aside, the house is arguably best known for its picturesque gardens, which cover 1000 acres and offer visitors a chance to explore temples, woodland, statues and more. One of the highlights is the breathtaking Atlas Fountain and pond, which was built in 1853 and is designated a Grade I listed building in its own right. Additionally, you can take a trip along the estate’s North Lake on the Castle Howard boat, The Dame, and spot local wildlife.
Stay at… Sheriff Hutton C&CC Site
Arundel Castle
- West Sussex, England
Arundel Castle is situated on a hill in West Sussex with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It is considered one of the most stunning castles in Great Britain and serves as the seat of the Duke of Norfolk. Built in the 11th century, the castle underwent restoration in the 18th and 19th centuries after sustaining damage during the English Civil War.
Despite the restoration, visitors can still view some of the castle’s original features, such as the medieval Gatehouse and the Norman Keep. If you are daring enough to climb the stone steps and navigate through the narrow passages, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the landscape around the castle. Additionally, visitors can explore other areas of the castle, such as the State Rooms, the Fitzalan Chapel and the Gardens.
Stay at… Littlehampton CAMC Site
Kensington Palace
- London, England
Kensington Palace, the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria, is perhaps best known today as the official London residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, as well as the former home of the late Diana, Princess of Wales.
Visitors to this splendid building can now explore the thoughtfully reimagined childhood rooms of Queen Victoria, as well as her jewellery in the Jewel Room, the palace’s elegant State Apartments, the King’s Staircase and the King’s Gallery.
Kensington Palace also hosts various exhibitions throughout the year, many of which offer a glimpse into the fascinating history of the palace and its former residents, all definitely worth a visit.
Stay at… Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park
Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Edinburgh, Scotland
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the end of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. It is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and is steeped in centuries of royal history. Visitors can explore the magnificent state apartments, including the Throne Room, the Privy Chamber, and Mary Queen of Scots’ Chambers. In the latter, visitors can see the intricately decorated Darnley Jewel, an opulent heart-shaped locket, on display.
Inside these chambers you will also be able to view the small supper room where Mary was dining in 1566, when she witnessed the murder of her private secretary, David Rizzio, at the hands of her husband, Lord Darnley, and his supporters.
If the weather permits, go for a walk around the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and take in the remains of the Gothic windows and Romanesque arcading. Visitors can also roam around the beautiful landscaped gardens.
- Stay at… Mortonhall Caravan & Camping Park
If you’re after some more ideas for where to visit during the 2025 touring season, how about embarking on a weekend tour to Glencoe? It’s an area which is considered one of the most scenic parts of the UK. Alternatively, how about embarking on a 48-hour tour to the Norfolk Broads? The beautiful area is Britain’s largest protected wetland – and the only UK National Park hosting a city. History lovers could also love a 48-hour stay in Dorchester – it’s a market town that was once a Roman settlement and now bustles with history buffs and holiday makers.
Lead image: Shutterstock
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