Acton Burnell Castle: A Medieval Fortified Manor with Parliamentary Legacy
Explore the serene ruins of Acton Burnell Castle, a medieval fortified manor that twice hosted early English Parliaments and shaped political history.
Nestled in Shropshire’s quiet village of Acton Burnell, this red sandstone castle is a late 13th-century fortified manor house built by Robert Burnell, Chancellor of England and close advisor to King Edward I. It hosted two historic English Parliaments in 1283 and 1285, notable for the early inclusion of commoners. Though now a ruin, it remains an impressive example of medieval architecture and political heritage, surrounded by woodland and open grassland.
A brief summary to Acton Burnell Castle
- Old Walls, Shrewsbury, SY5 7PE, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours as the access gate closes at dusk; the castle is open any reasonable time during the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the short wooded walk from the car park to the castle ruins.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas surrounding the castle, as there are no food facilities on site.
- Explore nearby St Mary’s Church and the remains of the tithe barn to deepen your understanding of the site’s history.
- Dogs on leads are welcome, making it a great spot for a family outing with pets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Shrewsbury to Acton Burnell Castle takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via the A49 and local roads. Free parking is available on site for five cars and one minibus, but spaces are limited, so plan accordingly.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Shrewsbury to Acton Burnell village with a journey time of around 40 to 50 minutes. From the village, a 10-minute walk through a short wooded path leads to the castle. Check current schedules as service frequency may vary.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, a gentle 15 to 20-minute walk from Acton Burnell village center to the castle is possible via quiet country lanes and a short wooded trail. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for most fitness levels.
Acton Burnell Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Acton Burnell Castle
Origins and Historical Significance
Acton Burnell Castle was constructed between 1284 and 1293 by Robert Burnell, Bishop of Bath and Wells and Chancellor of England under King Edward I. Burnell was a powerful royal official whose influence extended to hosting two early English Parliaments on the site, in 1283 and 1285. These parliaments are historically significant as they included representation from commoners, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of English governance. The castle’s location near the ancient Roman Watling Street highlights its strategic importance on the Welsh Marches during a turbulent medieval period.Architectural Features and Layout
The castle is built primarily from warm red sandstone, characteristic of the region. Its design resembles a Norman keep, featuring a double-storeyed living area with large, ornately traceried windows that emphasize comfort and status over military defense. Four battlemented corner towers project from the main structure, with one converted into a dovecote in the 18th century, crowned by a distinctive pyramidal roof. The ground floor originally housed storage and service rooms, while the entrance was on the east side, connecting to now-lost timber-framed ancillary buildings. The remains of a tithe barn and foundations of other domestic structures lie nearby, illustrating the scale of the medieval manor complex.The Castle’s Decline and Preservation
By 1420, Acton Burnell Castle was abandoned as a residence and gradually fell into ruin. Unlike many castles altered or rebuilt over centuries, it remained largely untouched, preserving its medieval form. In the 18th century, a new house—Acton Burnell Hall—was built adjacent to the ruins, further marking the transition from fortified manor to country estate. Today, the castle is a scheduled monument and Grade I listed building, protected for its architectural and historical value. It is maintained by English Heritage and accessible to the public as a picturesque ruin surrounded by woodland and open grass.Visitor Experience and Setting
Visitors approach the castle via a short, atmospheric walk through woodland, which enhances the sense of discovery and seclusion. The site is flat and grassy, ideal for exploration and picnicking, with informative English Heritage boards that contextualize the ruins and their significance. Although there are no facilities on site, the nearby market town of Shrewsbury offers amenities. Dogs on leads are welcome, and the peaceful environment makes it a tranquil spot for history enthusiasts and families alike.Legacy of Robert Burnell and Political Heritage
Robert Burnell’s legacy extends beyond architecture; his role in shaping medieval English politics is embodied in the castle’s history. The Statute of Acton Burnell, passed during the 1283 parliament, was an important legal reform. The castle and its associated tithe barn symbolize the early parliamentary system’s development, where commoners gained a voice alongside nobles. This connection gives Acton Burnell Castle a unique place in the story of democracy’s roots in England.Surrounding Attractions and Context
The castle’s rural setting near Acton Burnell village offers additional historical and cultural points of interest, including St Mary’s Church, built with the same red sandstone, and the remnants of the tithe barn where parliament was held. Nearby sites such as Langley Chapel and Wroxeter Roman City provide further exploration opportunities for visitors interested in England’s layered history. The castle’s quiet location makes it a restful retreat from busier tourist destinations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ffridd Faldwyn, Montgomery
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War Memorial
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Portobello Tower
41.6 km
An evocative 18th-century folly commemorating a historic naval victory, standing as a haunting landmark in Featherstone’s rural landscape.
Stafford Castle
41.9 km
Explore the stunning Stafford Castle, a medieval marvel that offers a captivating journey through England's rich history and picturesque landscapes.
The Fountain
42.6 km
Discover The Fountain, Dudley’s iconic historical landmark nestled in the vibrant Market Place, where heritage meets lively community spirit.
Dudley Zoo and Castle
42.7 km
Experience the wonders of wildlife and history at Dudley Zoo and Castle, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Dudley.
Black Country Living Museum
42.8 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of England at the Black Country Living Museum, a vibrant open-air museum in Dudley showcasing history, culture, and family fun.
Hartlebury Castle
43.0 km
Explore Hartlebury Castle, a historical gem in Kidderminster, showcasing rich heritage, stunning architecture, and engaging museum exhibits.
Chirk Aqueduct
43.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and engineering marvel of Chirk Aqueduct, a historical landmark bridging England and Wales amidst stunning landscapes.
Wychbury Obelisk
43.6 km
A towering 18th-century neoclassical monument atop historic Wychbury Hill, offering panoramic views and a touch of local mystery.
Witley Court & Gardens
43.8 km
Explore the grandeur of Witley Court & Gardens, where history, architecture, and nature unite in a stunning English estate experience.
The Ancient High House
44.2 km
Explore the Ancient High House, a stunning 16th-century museum in Stafford, where history comes to life through engaging exhibits and breathtaking architecture.
National Trust - Chirk Castle
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Explore the enchanting Chirk Castle, a historic gem in Wales, surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Tŷ Mawr Country Park
46.8 km
Explore Tŷ Mawr Country Park, a tranquil escape in Wrexham, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, Tylcua Hill.
47.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, a nature reserve rich in wildlife and scenic landscapes in the heart of Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wroxeter Roman City
7.5 km
Step into the ruins of Wroxeter Roman City, Britain’s ancient urban marvel with immersive history and stunning archaeological remains.
National Trust - Attingham Park Estate: Cronkhill
8.1 km
Explore Attingham Park’s grand Regency mansion, historic landscapes by Humphry Repton, and the charming Italianate folly of Cronkhill in scenic Shropshire.
National Trust - Attingham Park
8.6 km
Explore the grandeur of an 18th-century Georgian mansion and 4,000 acres of stunning parkland at Attingham Park, a National Trust treasure near Shrewsbury.
Wenlock Priory
9.3 km
Explore the serene medieval ruins of Wenlock Priory, a historic Cluniac monastery nestled in the picturesque Shropshire countryside.
Lord Hill's Column
10.5 km
Explore England’s tallest Doric column in Shrewsbury, a majestic monument honoring General Lord Hill with panoramic town views from its historic spiral staircase.
House Clearance Emporium
11.0 km
Explore two spacious showrooms of vintage furniture, collectibles, and decorative antiques in the heart of Shrewsbury’s Coleham Head.
Shrewsbury Abbey
11.1 km
Explore Shrewsbury Abbey’s Norman heritage, stunning stained glass, and tranquil gardens in a historic spiritual sanctuary dating back to 1083.
Buildwas Abbey
11.2 km
Explore the peaceful, well-preserved ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey nestled beside the River Severn near Ironbridge Gorge.
Labyrinth Brings Harry Potter to Shrewsbury
11.4 km
Step into the magic of Harry Potter at this enchanting gift shop nestled in Shrewsbury’s historic Grope Lane.
Stretton Antiques Market
11.4 km
Explore four floors of vintage treasures and antiques in the historic heart of Church Stretton, where every visit uncovers a new story.
The Quarry
11.4 km
Historic riverside park with stunning gardens, family-friendly amenities, and vibrant events in the heart of Shrewsbury.
The Darwin Centre
11.5 km
Shrewsbury’s vibrant shopping centre with top brands, cozy cafés, and a welcoming atmosphere across three lively floors.
Laura's Tower
11.6 km
Explore the stunning Laura's Tower in Shrewsbury, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
Shrewsbury Castle
11.7 km
Explore Shrewsbury Castle’s rich Norman heritage, panoramic views, and the Soldiers of Shropshire Museum in the heart of medieval Shrewsbury.
Shrewsbury Prison
11.7 km
Step into authentic Victorian prison walls for immersive escape challenges and paranormal exploration.
Essential places to dine
Riverside Inn
4.8 km
Charming riverside pub and restaurant in Shrewsbury’s Cound village offering classic British fare, cozy rooms, and scenic views by the River Severn.
Old Hall Restaurant
5.6 km
Experience authentic Persian cuisine and warm hospitality in the historic charm of Dorrington’s Old Hall Restaurant.
The Clock Tower
6.0 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury at The Clock Tower, a landmark of Netley Hall’s exclusive wedding and events estate in scenic Shropshire.
The Haughmond
10.8 km
A historic 17th-century coaching inn offering fine dining, stylish rooms, and tranquil gardens in the peaceful village of Upton Magna near Shrewsbury.
Lion + Pheasant Hotel
11.1 km
Elegant Georgian boutique hotel in Shrewsbury offering refined dining, cozy rooms, and a peaceful garden in the town’s historic heart.
The Peach Tree
11.2 km
A charming Shrewsbury restaurant blending classic British flavors with warm hospitality in a historic setting.
The Hayward Restaurant
11.2 km
Classic British dining with a modern touch in Shrewsbury’s historic Lion Hotel on charming Wyle Cop.
Bombos
11.2 km
Experience vibrant Asian fusion cuisine and crafted cocktails in the heart of historic Shrewsbury at Bombos, a lively spot for dining and socializing.
La Lanterna at the Old Vestry
11.3 km
Authentic Italian dining in Shrewsbury’s historic square, blending rustic charm with delicious cuisine and warm hospitality.
Chambers Restaurant
11.4 km
Chambers Restaurant offers traditional English dining in a historic oak-panelled setting, blending hearty cuisine with warm, family-run hospitality.
Royalist Restaurant
11.4 km
Experience refined British dining in a historic Shrewsbury setting with locally sourced flavors and elegant medieval charm.
The Exchange Pub & Restaurant
11.4 km
A lively town centre pub and restaurant in Shrewsbury offering European-inspired tapas, cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all occasions.
House of the Rising Sun
11.4 km
Eclectic Asian-inspired dining and vibrant cocktails in the heart of historic Shrewsbury’s lively Butcher Row.
The Loopy Shrew
11.5 km
A lively boutique gastro pub and hotel in Shrewsbury’s historic heart, blending modern British cuisine with local charm and vibrant social scenes.
La Dolce Vita
11.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Shrewsbury at La Dolce Vita.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
National Trust Gift Shop
8.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and heritage gifts at the National Trust Gift Shop within the historic Attingham Park estate.
Oberon
11.1 km
Discover Oberon, Shrewsbury’s boutique for artisanal leather goods and shoes, blending historic charm with quality craftsmanship.
La Vie
11.2 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and exquisite homewares in the heart of Shrewsbury’s historic Wyle Cop.
Ella Cru
11.2 km
Discover curated women's fashion and footwear in a charming medieval boutique on Shrewsbury’s historic Wyle Cop.
Vinterior
11.2 km
Discover unique vintage furniture and sustainable gifts in the heart of historic Shrewsbury at Vinterior.
Maggie Mae's Vintage
11.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and expert styling at Maggie Mae's Vintage, Shrewsbury’s premier vintage clothing destination.
Shrewsbury Antique Centre
11.3 km
Over 50 dealers, 30 years of history, endless vintage treasures in Shrewsbury's heart.
TFA POP SHOP SHREWSBURY
11.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, streetwear, and unique art inside Shrewsbury’s vibrant TFA Pop Shop, nestled within the historic antiques centre.
The Enchanted Labyrinth Ltd
11.4 km
Step into Shrewsbury’s enchanting gift shop where magic, mystery, and local crafts come alive in a captivating labyrinth of wonder.
The Parade Shops
11.4 km
Discover Shrewsbury’s hidden gem: a charming Georgian shopping centre with unique boutiques and scenic river views.
White Orchard
11.4 km
Discover unique gifts and charming accessories at White Orchard, a beloved independent shop nestled on historic Butcher Row in Shrewsbury.
Rainbows End
11.4 km
Discover charming local crafts and unique gifts at Rainbows End, Church Stretton’s beloved boutique gift shop.
Vinegar Hill
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Discover unique home and lifestyle treasures at Vinegar Hill, Shrewsbury’s independent gift and homewares gem.
Aroma Quartz
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Discover handcrafted natural wax candles, crystal quartz gifts, and botanical fragrances in Shrewsbury’s vibrant Market Hall.
Shrewsbury Duck Store
11.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mytton & Mermaid
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White Horse
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House of Grain
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The Nag’s Head
11.2 km
Historic Tudor pub on Shrewsbury’s Wyle Cop, famed for its timber framing, cosy rooms, large beer garden, and rich local heritage.
Henry Tudor Inn
11.2 km
Historic charm and creative pub dining come together in Shrewsbury’s Henry Tudor Inn, a lively spot famed for unique decor and traditional British fare.
Wheatsheaf
11.3 km
Historic charm meets lively dining and live music in the heart of Shrewsbury’s vibrant High Street pub scene.
Cromwell's Tap House
11.3 km
Historic Shrewsbury pub and boutique inn offering creative British fare, craft drinks, and cozy accommodation in a quirky, character-filled setting.
Coach & Horses
11.3 km
Experience authentic English pub culture with hearty meals and real ales at Shrewsbury’s charming Coach & Horses.
Loggerheads
11.4 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Shrewsbury offering cozy rooms, quality ales, live music, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Libertine
11.4 km
Quirky and stylish cocktail bar in Shrewsbury offering expertly crafted drinks, cozy vintage charm, and warm, attentive service.
Ashley's
11.4 km
A lively wine bar and live music venue in Shrewsbury’s historic heart, perfect for relaxed drinks and vibrant nights out.
The Hole In The Wall
11.4 km
A traditional Shrewsbury pub offering great beer, hearty food, live music, and sports in a warm, historic setting.
Oil
11.5 km
A lively Shrewsbury bar offering craft beers, quirky seating, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the historic town.
St Nicholas Bar & Grill
11.5 km
Historic church transformed into a lively bar and grill offering quality British cuisine, cocktails, and a unique Shrewsbury dining experience.
Albert's Shed
11.5 km
A quirky, intimate live music bar in Shrewsbury, championing grassroots bands and vibrant nights out with cocktails and karaoke.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Havana Republic
11.2 km
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Boutique - Shrewsbury
11.6 km
A vibrant 90s-inspired nightclub in Shrewsbury offering lively nights, stylish booths, and a nostalgic yet modern clubbing experience.
The Buttermarket
11.7 km
Shrewsbury’s iconic Grade II listed venue, The Buttermarket, offers vibrant live music, club nights, and diverse entertainment across three dynamic floors.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
15.2 km
A vibrant nightclub and events venue in Wellington, Telford, blending modern style with lively weekend entertainment.
We Love Oldskool Nights
16.9 km
Experience the vibrant energy of classic 90s and 2000s R’n’B and hip-hop at We Love Oldskool Nights, the ultimate dance club for nostalgic partygoers.
Mainstreet Nightclub
27.2 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Monty Club
43.7 km
A welcoming social and sports club in Newtown with ample space for pool, snooker, darts, and vibrant community events.
The Steam Mill
43.7 km
Discover The Steam Mill, Newtown's premier events venue, blending modern amenities with local culture for unforgettable experiences.
Caersws Village Club
51.0 km
A vibrant village club in Caersws offering lively events, warm community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of rural Wales.
The Studio
51.7 km
Experience Nantwich’s energetic nightlife at The Studio, a vibrant club known for live DJs, dance music, and late-night fun in the town center.
The Magnet Club
52.6 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
54.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Reflex, Newcastle Under Lyme’s central nightclub and lounge with lively music and social vibes.
PAVO Birmingham
54.5 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
54.7 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Snobs
54.7 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Pet Friendly
