My son would like to visit a castle when we are in London. One requirement is that we be able to walk on the battlements. Of course, we will see the Tower of London. I have been to Dover Castle a long time ago and remember it to be quite nice, as castles go. I think it may be our best choice. I don't think you can walk on the battlements at Windsor. Any suggestions or comments?

I'm not sure how you would get there on a day trip but Castle Rising Castle in Norfolk is a wonderful ruin. Leeds might be better for you though.

I would highly recommend a trip to Warwick castle. You can certainly walk the battlements! I know they have bus tours from London (It's a couple of hours North West, I believe) . I have been to many castles but Warwick is by far my favorite. It is well kept and alwasy a highlight of my trip to the UK.

Hello mwg, we are going to London in Feb. and I want to go to Warwick castle for the day. I think that is about 2hours long by train(according to Steinbicker's 50 daytrips from London book). I have not been there, but I heard it was wonderful....it may be a mite long for your son however. How old is he? I love trains, so I am looking forward to the trip itself! Have a good time whatever you do.

The Tower of London is really good but there are others out in the countryside. <BR> <BR>Depends on how far you want to travel.. The really good "battlement walking" castles are in Wales (Caernavon, Raglan, Monmouth, Chepstow and a whole load more....) - all 13th century. Nearer to London I suggest Dover (80mls) (but it is also a military base so the "battlements" will be restricted) or Rochester (30mls) (North Kent) - Rochester is a bit of a ruin but still a recognisable castle! <BR> <BR>Best choice? If you've got a hire car, go to South Wales, about 100miles west of London, interstate all the way. Go see Chepstow, Monmouth, Raglan <BR> <BR>Tip: Most castles are operated by a UK government body called English Heritage. If you're going to visit more than 1 castle, but a family annual pass - it's much cheaper than paying at the door.

I live near Warwick and all our visitors from overseas love Warwick Castle. There's lots to do there apart from walking along the walls and climbing Guys Tower. Tussauds the waxworks people have "An Edwardian Country weekend" in the State Apartments which is excellent. There's a "living history" of the Middle Ages with helmets to try on and even the genuine smells of the time. So it would be well worth a trip from London. The journey by road takes 2 hours approximately by motorway (London-Birmingham) and there are coach trips too.

Another vote for Warwick Castle. My son loved it. You really can't go wrong -you can walk the battlements, see the wax figure exhibits (sounds corny, but is really quite good), gruesome dungeon stuff, in the obligatory "armor section" they let my husband try on the helmut, the chest plate, the sword and arm armor (whatever it's called) -my son was too shy (for some strange reason). It really was a wonderful day. We've been to several castles in England and Wales and still think Warwick is the best.

Dittos on Warwick from all the other posters. The 500+ steps you must climb or descend can be rather tiring for little ones, but even if you don't take that walk, there is much to do at the castle. Also our family thoroughly enjoyed Leeds Castle. We visited in August and had a great time. It is absolutely beautiful with lovely gardens and an aviary. Have a great time. When are you going over?