Old Wardour Castle is one of the most unusual castles in England, because it is not a rectangle or a ring but a hexagon, built around a central courtyard in the late fourteenth century as much for show as for defence. It stands in wooded parkland by a lake in the valley of the River Nadder, around fifteen miles west of Salisbury, and its tall, pale stone walls rise from the trees in a setting that feels almost too romantic to be real. The castle was a comfortable lordly residence, with grand lodgings and a gatehouse that gave a statement of rank, and it later passed to the Arundell family. During the Civil War it was besieged twice, and the damage from the explosion of mines under the walls left it the ruin we see today. A climb up the spiral staircases and across the upper floors gives a view across the courtyard and out over the lake, and it is easy to see why film-makers have used it as a backdrop. In the eighteenth century a landscaped pleasure ground was laid out around the ruin, with a grotto, a lakeside walk and a viewing point for the picturesque effect, and the grounds are the perfect place for a picnic. English Heritage looks after the site, and an audio guide helps tell the story.
What to expect
The interest of Old Wardour lies in the way that the ruin has been shaped by both history and fashion. The hexagonal layout, which is rare in British castles, is part of what makes the place so memorable, and the carved stonework and grand entrance show that this was meant as a house of status. The Civil War story, in which a determined defender held out against a much larger force, adds drama.
In the grounds you can follow a path to the lakeside and the grotto, and the little buildings and views were designed to be seen from particular points, so take your time. The site is also a good place for children, who can explore stairs, passages and open spaces, though the stairs are steep and uneven.
Practicalities
The castle lies near Tisbury, about a thirty-minute drive from Salisbury, and a car is the easiest way to reach it, because public transport is limited. There is a car park at the site, a small shop and an area for picnics, and the grounds can be muddy after rain.
Opening days and hours change by season, and winter opening can be reduced, so check English Heritage before you travel. Admission is ticketed, members of English Heritage go in free, and booking in advance is often cheaper than paying at the gate. Wear sturdy shoes, because the paths and stairs are uneven.
Putting it in your plan
Old Wardour is a good choice for a quiet day out away from the crowds of Stonehenge. Pair it with the pretty village of Tisbury, or with a drive to Wilton and the Nadder valley, and finish with a pub meal. It also combines well with Stourhead or Longleat if you have a car and want a long day in south Wiltshire.
For history lovers it is a good contrast with Old Sarum, since you move from an Iron Age and Norman fortress to a late medieval residence and then to a Georgian garden within a single day.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit with an audio guide, climbing through the ruined rooms and stairs, then a walk to the lake, the grotto and the pleasure ground.
Best time
A dry spring or autumn day for the woodland setting; check winter opening before you travel.
How long
About two hours, a little more if you picnic by the lake.
Tips
Drive, since public transport is limited, wear sturdy shoes for the stairs and book ahead online for a discount.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Castle fans and anyone who wants a quiet, scenic ruin away from the crowds.
- Families
- Stairs, passages and open grounds make it a good adventure for children, with picnic space by the lake.
- Couples
- A lakeside walk and a pub lunch in the Nadder valley.
- Pair with
- Stourhead or Longleat for a longer day, or Old Sarum for a contrast in castles.
- Time needed
- A half-day with the drive from Salisbury.
Good questions
Why is Old Wardour Castle hexagonal?+
It was built in the late fourteenth century as a grand residence as well as a fortress, and the hexagonal plan around a courtyard is rare among British castles.
How far is it from Salisbury?+
About fifteen miles to the west, roughly a thirty-minute drive. Public transport is limited, so most visitors drive.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, children enjoy the stairs, rooms and grounds, though the stairs are steep and uneven and need care.
Can I picnic there?+
Yes, the grounds are a popular place for a picnic, and the lakeside is especially pleasant in good weather.
Can I use an English Heritage membership?+
Yes, members are admitted free on showing their card. Others usually save money by booking online in advance.
