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 to the 13th century.
Here are 13 historic castles around the North West that are well worth a visit.
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