Sudeley Castle

The first thing that strikes you about Sudeley Castle is how real it feels - proper medieval stonework, not some Victorian pastiche. Perched near Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire, this place has been home to Catherine Parr, Henry VIII's last wife, and you can actually visit her tomb in the chapel. The castle itself is authentically crumbling in places, which only adds to the appeal.

You can wander the grounds at your own pace, exploring the ruins of the Glastonbury Wing and ducking into the domestic quarters where you get a genuine sense of how people lived here centuries ago. The gardens are properly maintained - herb gardens, kitchen gardens, that sort of thing - which breaks up the stonework nicely. Allow a good three hours if you're thorough; two if you're just after the highlights.

This works brilliantly if you're camping locally - Winchcombe Camping is only 3.3 miles away, making it an easy morning visit. History enthusiasts will absolutely rate it; younger kids might flag after the first hour unless they're into castles properly. Families should check admission prices and opening hours before heading out, as these can shift seasonally.

It's the sort of place where you can actually touch the stone and read the plaques without feeling herded around. Not flashy, not overdone, just a proper Cotswolds castle with genuine historical clout. Well worth combining with a stay at one of the nearby caravan parks if you're doing a longer regional tour.