The North West is filled with beautiful, historic castles which offer a glimpse into the region’s past.
While ruins are all that remain of some, they are still a magnificent piece of history, with many telling stories of days gone by and surrounded by beautiful woodlands. Others have been preserved and restored and truly feel like travelling back in time.
Considered to be one of England's best-preserved castles, you could visit Lancaster Castle, or if you want to see a glimpse of what Liverpool Castle could have been like many moons ago, there is even a replica in Rivington, overlooking the historic market town of Chorley. Sadly, the structure was never finished but its remains are still there today.
Here are 13 beautiful castles around the North West that are well worth a visit.
7. Beeston Castle and Woodland Park, Cheshire
Beeston Castle is a magical former castle, in a 40-acre woodland park. There are beautiful views, great walks and activities for kids too! | Michael Garlick, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
8. Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire
Cholmondeley Castle was built in the 19th century, with the Cholmondeley family living on the lands since Norman times. The beautiful castle is surrounded by 70 acres of gardens which can be visited on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. | Cholmondeley Castle by Stephen Llowarch, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
9. Ewloe Castle, Flintshire
Ewloe Castle is in ruins but, it is worth a visit, hidden away in a lovely woodland. It was abandoned at the beginning of the invasion of Wales in 1277. | Clintheacock66 at English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
10. Hoghton Tower, Preston
While it isn't a castle, Hoghton Tower is a beautiful historic building which you definitely need to visit. The stunning manor house is the ancestral home of the de Hoghton family. | Contributed
11. Conwy Castle, Conwy
Conwy Castle is very well preserved and truly feels like going back to medieval times. It is a World Heritage site and described as ‘one of the most magnificent medieval fortresses in Europe.’ | Pawel Pajor - stock.adobe.com
12. Peckforton Castle, Tarporley
Peckforton Castle is a gorgeous Grade I-listed hotel in Tarporley, dating back to the 1800s. Built in the style of a medieval castle, it was home to John Tollemache. | philipbird123 - stock.adobe.com