Whittington Castle
Shropshire, England
Photo: Jeffpmcdonald, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Gallery: AtticTapestry, CC BY-SA 4.0 · AtticTapestry, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Key facts
- Operator
- Whittington Castle Preservation Trust
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Free, open access
- Nearest station
- Gobowen, 2.0 miles (straight-line)
- Note
- Community-managed moated gatehouse ruin
Pinpoint
Whittington, Oswestry SY11 4DF
Telephone 01691 662500
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
A moated gatehouse ruin near the Welsh border, community-run by a local preservation trust rather than a national heritage body, dating back to the Norman period when it guarded a key crossing route. It's small - reviewers are candid there isn't a huge amount of standing fabric - but the moat and gatehouse make it consistently photogenic.
At a glance
Worth the trip
The moat itself, which reviewers rate as the most striking feature - a proper water-filled ring around the ruins, unusual for a site this size.
Before you go
Parking is cheap and right next to the site; it's a small visit, so pair it with a picnic and don't expect events or facilities beyond the ruins and grounds themselves.
What visitors say
Whittington Castle reviews · 4.6 / 5 across 641 Google reviews
Reviewers consistently enjoy this small, atmospheric ruined castle with its moat and gatehouse, along with the on-site gardens, cafe, and cheap or free parking.
A couple caution that there isn't a great deal of standing structure to see, so it suits a short, relaxed visit rather than a lengthy one.
“Gorgeous castle ruins. A definite must for castle and history lovers. On a summer's day take a picnic and enjoy the surroundings. Cheap parking right next to it.”- Shelley Lightfoot, visitor review
Within reach of Liverpool (37 miles) - see what else is nearby.
History
William Peverel · 1138
Originally a Norman motte-and-bailey fortified for William Peverel in 1138, Whittington was rebuilt in stone in the thirteenth century after Welsh destruction. The FitzWarin family held it for centuries, adding sophisticated defences and a moat system. A lavish fourteenth-century garden surrounded the castle. The Preservation Trust acquired a 99-year lease in 2002 and completed a £1.5 million restoration.
Adapted from this castle's Wikipedia article, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “The castle is free to visit, and the car park is right by the gate and cost just couple of quid, making access very easy.” - Przemyslaw Kowalski
- Facilities
- “It should also be mentioned that there is an excellent cafe there too which was spotlessly clean with great service.” - Brian Battersby
Common questions about Whittington Castle
Where is Whittington Castle?
Whittington Castle is in Shropshire, England, at Whittington, Oswestry SY11 4DF.
Is Whittington Castle free to visit?
Yes - Whittington Castle is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by Whittington Castle Preservation Trust. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
What is the highlight of visiting Whittington Castle?
The moat itself, which reviewers rate as the most striking feature - a proper water-filled ring around the ruins, unusual for a site this size.
Is Whittington Castle a ruin or still intact?
Whittington Castle is a ruin - Community-managed moated gatehouse ruin.
