Bigger Than Childhood Sandcastles: Six European Castles Featured in Films and TV
- Erin Whittington
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
Europe is a treasure trove of history, romance, and drama, serving as a muse for countless films and television shows. Many of us grew up enchanted by the grand castles featured in Disney classics, The Princess Bride, and even Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The good news? These magnificent stone fortresses aren’t just Hollywood sets—they’re real, they’re breathtaking, and they’re open for exploration. Here are six must-visit European castles that have graced our screens and can now grace your travel itinerary.
1. Doune Castle - Scotland
Featured In: Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975), Ivanhoe (1952), Game of Thrones, Outlander
Perched in the village of Doune, this 13th-century Scottish castle boasts a fascinating history of medieval warfare and luxury—with a stint of dilapidation in the 19th century when it was roofless. Restored to its former glory in the 1890s, Doune Castle is now a pilgrimage site for Monty Python fans. It’s instantly recognizable from several iconic scenes in the 1975 parody and has also appeared in Game of Thrones and Outlander.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets online to ensure a seamless visit to this medieval masterpiece.
2. Haddon Hall - Derbyshire, England
Featured In: The Princess Bride (1987), Jane Eyre (1996), Pride & Prejudice (2005)
Dating back to the 11th century, Haddon Hall is a stunning medieval manor steeped in romantic legend. Its intricate architecture and connection to heiress Dorothy Vernon’s dramatic elopement have inspired countless stories. Most famously, Haddon Hall served as the dreamy setting for The Princess Bride, where fans can channel their inner Princess Buttercup.
Pro Tip: Purchase tickets on the Haddon Hall website to secure your magical adventure.
3. Broughton Castle - Banbury, UK
Featured In: Shakespeare in Love (1998), Jane Eyre (2011)
This 14th-century fortified manor house, surrounded by a classic moat, is a gem in northern Oxfordshire. Owned by the Fiennes family—relatives of actors Ralph and Joseph Fiennes—Broughton Castle is a slice of history intertwined with Hollywood. It’s a standout in Shakespeare in Love, featuring Elizabethan-styled Gwyneth Paltrow.
Pro Tip: Open to the public only during the summer, so plan your visit accordingly.
4. Bamburgh Castle - Northumberland, England
Featured In: Elizabeth (1998), Macbeth (2015), Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)
Standing proudly on the northern coast of England, Bamburgh Castle offers cinematic views with lush cliffs overlooking the expansive sea. Dating back to the 400s, its storied past includes royal ownership and a dramatic restoration by an industrialist in the 19th century. This castle has dazzled audiences in countless films and even doubles as a stunning wedding venue.
Pro Tip: Channel your inner Elizabethan by booking tickets for a tour—or your dream wedding!
5. Dover Castle - Dover, Kent
Featured In: The Other Boleyn Girl (2007), Into the Woods (2014)
Perched on the white cliffs of Kent, Dover Castle is the epitome of a medieval fortress. With a rich history of battles and resilience—from being burned by William the Conqueror to surviving the First Barons’ War—this iconic site offers a slice of England’s dramatic past. Its cinematic appeal has made it a favorite for historical dramas.
Pro Tip: This popular attraction fills up fast, so book your tickets online to secure your spot.
6. Castle Howard - North Yorkshire, England
Featured In: Brideshead Revisited (2008), Bridgerton (2020)
A relatively modern addition, Castle Howard’s construction spanned the 18th and 19th centuries, giving it a more Victorian vibe compared to its medieval counterparts. Its blend of architectural styles and lush decor make it instantly recognizable from Bridgerton and Brideshead Revisited. Visitors can explore its opulent halls and expansive gardens.
Pro Tip: Book tickets online to enjoy a seamless visit to this elegant estate.
Plan Your Castle-Hopping Adventure
Europe is brimming with castles, each with its own story, charm, and cinematic appeal. These six are just the beginning of your journey into history and film. Ready to explore these iconic sites and create your own fairytale memories? Let us help plan your ultimate European castle tour.
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