Stokesay Castle: England’s Finest Medieval Manor House
Explore England’s finest preserved medieval manor house with stunning views, rich history, and tranquil Shropshire countryside charm.
Stokesay Castle, located near Craven Arms in Shropshire, is England’s best-preserved fortified medieval manor house. Built in the late 13th century by wealthy merchant Laurence of Ludlow, it features an unchanged great hall, a 17th-century timber-framed gatehouse, and fairy-tale towers offering stunning views of the Shropshire Hills. Visitors can explore historic interiors, tranquil grounds, and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with trails and a tearoom overlooking the countryside.
A brief summary to Stokesay Castle
- Ludlow Rd, Craven Arms, SY7 9AH, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and enjoy discounted prices.
- Don’t miss the free audio tour—it brings the castle’s history and characters vividly to life.
- Climb the towers for breathtaking panoramic views of the Shropshire Hills.
- Visit the tearoom for locally sourced refreshments with scenic countryside views.
- Explore the family trail to discover hidden treasures and engage younger visitors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Craven Arms station, approximately 15 minutes from Ludlow. From Craven Arms, local buses run to Stokesay Castle area; travel time by bus is around 10-15 minutes. Bus services may be limited on weekends; check current timetables. Train tickets from major cities start around £15-£25.
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Car
Driving to Stokesay Castle from Ludlow takes about 20 minutes via A49 and local roads. On-site parking is available but can be limited during peak times. Parking fees apply unless you are an English Heritage member. Use a GPS-enabled device for navigation.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Craven Arms station to Stokesay Castle is approximately 3.5 km and takes about 45 minutes along rural roads and footpaths. Terrain is mostly flat but some sections may be uneven; suitable for those with moderate fitness.
Stokesay 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 Stokesay Castle
A Remarkably Intact Medieval Fortress
Stokesay Castle stands as one of England’s most exceptional surviving fortified manor houses, constructed at the end of the 13th century by Laurence of Ludlow, a prosperous wool merchant. Unlike many castles that have fallen into ruin or been heavily altered, Stokesay remains largely unchanged, especially its great hall, which has retained its medieval character for over 700 years. The castle’s stone walls, timber roof, and original medieval features offer a rare glimpse into the domestic and defensive architecture of the period.Architectural Highlights and Historic Interiors
The castle’s layout includes the impressive great hall with its soaring open timber roof, once the heart of social and political life. Nearby, the solar—the private chambers—displays intricate wood carvings and gives insight into the lifestyle of the medieval gentry. The 17th-century yellow timber-framed gatehouse adds a contrasting charm and is a highlight for visitors. Climbing the castle’s towers rewards you with panoramic views over the rolling Shropshire Hills, connecting the architecture with its natural surroundings.Setting and Surroundings in the Shropshire Countryside
Set in peaceful countryside near the Welsh border, Stokesay Castle is surrounded by tranquil grounds and a moat walk that offers picturesque views and photo opportunities. The rural setting enhances the castle’s fairy-tale atmosphere, making it a serene escape from urban life. The nearby tearoom overlooks the lush landscape, providing a restful spot to enjoy local refreshments.Visitor Experience and Activities
Visitors can enjoy a free audio tour that vividly brings the castle’s history to life, narrating stories of medieval feasts, the merchant’s wealth, and the castle’s role through centuries. A family trail encourages exploration with hidden treasures to discover, making it an engaging outing for all ages. The site also offers accessible facilities including disabled toilets and on-site parking, ensuring a comfortable visit.Historical Significance and Cultural Legacy
Stokesay Castle is more than a picturesque landmark; it is a cultural treasure that reflects England’s medieval mercantile wealth and architectural ingenuity. Its preservation allows visitors to experience a genuine medieval manor house environment, complete with original features and the atmosphere of a bygone era. The castle’s story, from its construction to its survival through centuries, enriches understanding of England’s social and economic history.Planning Your Visit and Seasonal Details
Open daily from 10am to 5pm, Stokesay Castle welcomes visitors year-round, with ticket options including discounts for advance online bookings and free entry for English Heritage members. The site’s peaceful rural location and well-maintained grounds make it suitable for visits in any season, with special events occasionally held in the historic ballroom. Nearby attractions in Shropshire offer additional opportunities for cultural and outdoor exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ffridd Faldwyn, Montgomery
26.6 km
Explore the vast Iron Age hillfort of Ffridd Faldwyn, commanding the Severn Valley with ancient earthworks and panoramic Welsh landscapes.
Monkey Puzzle Trees
30.5 km
Striking evergreen Monkey Puzzle Trees on historic Hergest Ridge, a peaceful highlight along Offa’s Dyke Path near Kington.
Hartlebury Castle
41.2 km
Explore Hartlebury Castle, a historical gem in Kidderminster, showcasing rich heritage, stunning architecture, and engaging museum exhibits.
Black and White House Museum
42.3 km
Step into 17th-century Hereford at the Black and White House Museum, a beautifully preserved timber-framed Jacobean home with rich history and engaging exhibits.
Radnorshire Museum
42.7 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Radnorshire at Radnorshire Museum, a captivating tourist attraction in Llandrindod Wells.
Radnorshire Fine Arts Ltd
42.8 km
Discover Radnorshire Fine Arts Ltd, an inspiring art gallery in Cregrina, showcasing local and international artworks amidst stunning Welsh scenery.
National Cycle Museum
42.8 km
Explore the National Cycle Museum in Llandrindod Wells, celebrating the fascinating history and evolution of cycling with rare bikes and engaging exhibits.
The Hereford Labyrinth
42.9 km
A tranquil 20-metre labyrinth on Hereford’s Bishop’s Meadow, blending ancient spiritual tradition with serene riverside nature.
Colwyn Castle
42.9 km
Discover the enchanting Colwyn Castle in Llandrindod Wells, a historical marvel set against stunning Welsh landscapes, perfect for history and nature lovers.
Radnorshire Wildlife Trust
43.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wales at Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Play Radnor
43.0 km
Discover Play Radnor in Llandrindod Wells, a vibrant community hub offering children’s play areas and family-friendly activities for unforgettable experiences.
Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum
43.0 km
Explore the rich military history of the Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories that honor local heroes.
Rock Park
43.1 km
Explore Rock Park in Llandrindod Wells, a stunning hiking area offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Moreton Corbet Castle
43.3 km
Medieval fortress meets Renaissance ambition in these free, atmospheric Shropshire ruins.
Lilleshall Abbey
44.3 km
Explore the enchanting Lilleshall Abbey, a historical landmark steeped in rich heritage and surrounded by serene landscapes, perfect for tourists seeking beauty and history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Flounders' Folly
4.1 km
Explore Flounders' Folly in Craven Arms, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich heritage amidst the beautiful Shropshire countryside.
Bury Ditches
11.0 km
Explore Bury Ditches, a stunning Iron Age hill fort with dramatic earthworks and panoramic views in the heart of Shropshire Hills.
Stretton Antiques Market
12.1 km
Explore four floors of vintage treasures and antiques in the historic heart of Church Stretton, where every visit uncovers a new story.
Wigmore Castle
12.8 km
Explore the evocative, free-to-enter ruins of Wigmore Castle, a medieval fortress nestled in scenic Herefordshire countryside.
National Trust - Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd
12.9 km
Explore the stunning heather moorlands and scenic trails of Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd, a natural haven in Shropshire’s Hills.
Croft Ambrey Hillfort
14.9 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age Croft Ambrey Hillfort, where history and nature merge on a scenic Herefordshire hilltop.
National Trust - Croft Castle and Parkland
16.3 km
Explore centuries of history, vast parkland, and family-friendly gardens at the enchanting Croft Castle and Parkland in Herefordshire.
Offa's Dyke Centre
17.7 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Welsh-English border at the Offa’s Dyke Centre in Knighton.
Stiperstones National Nature Reserve
18.9 km
Explore Shropshire’s rugged quartzite peaks and rich wildlife at the atmospheric Stiperstones National Nature Reserve.
Roundton Hill National Nature Reserve
19.3 km
Explore ancient volcanic landscapes and rare habitats at Roundton Hill, a vibrant nature reserve rich in history, wildlife, and panoramic views.
National Trust - Berrington Hall
19.4 km
Explore a Georgian masterpiece nestled in Capability Brown’s final landscaped parkland, blending history, nature, and tranquil gardens in Herefordshire.
Withybeds
20.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich wildlife of Withybeds Nature Reserve, a peaceful green escape near Presteigne in the Welsh countryside.
The Judge's Lodging Powys
21.0 km
Step into Victorian justice and domestic life at The Judge's Lodging, a hands-on historic house museum in the heart of Presteigne, Powys.
Acton Burnell Castle
22.4 km
Explore the serene ruins of Acton Burnell Castle, a medieval fortified manor that twice hosted early English Parliaments and shaped political history.
The Crown
25.8 km
Montgomery’s last traditional pub, The Crown offers real ales, a sunny beer garden, and a warm, no-frills village atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Forelles
9.5 km
A tranquil boutique manor hotel with spa indulgence nestled in Shropshire’s scenic countryside near Ludlow’s historic charm.
Mortimers
10.1 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in Ludlow’s historic oak-paneled dining room, where tradition meets contemporary elegance.
The Maidenhead
15.3 km
A charming gastropub in Orleton blending rustic English charm with quality cuisine and a welcoming bar atmosphere.
The Banc
17.7 km
Historic charm and modern dining converge at The Banc, Knighton’s beloved bar and restaurant with a quirky, welcoming atmosphere.
George & Dragon Inn
17.7 km
A charming family-run inn in Knighton offering cozy rooms, hearty gluten-free fare, and warm Welsh hospitality in a lively pub setting.
The Clock Tower
20.4 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury at The Clock Tower, a landmark of Netley Hall’s exclusive wedding and events estate in scenic Shropshire.
Mellington Hall Country House Hotel
20.5 km
Historic country house hotel offering cozy rooms, excellent food, and stunning rural views near Montgomery in the heart of Welsh countryside.
The Radnorshire Arms Hotel
21.1 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Presteigne at The Radnorshire Arms Hotel, a welcoming retreat for families and travelers alike.
Old Hall Restaurant
21.6 km
Experience authentic Persian cuisine and warm hospitality in the historic charm of Dorrington’s Old Hall Restaurant.
The Checkers (restaurant)
25.9 km
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Montgomery blending local Welsh ingredients with refined modern cuisine in a cozy, historic setting.
The Dragon Hotel
25.9 km
Historic charm meets local hospitality in Montgomery’s vibrant Market Square at The Dragon Hotel.
Riverside Inn
26.9 km
Charming riverside pub and restaurant in Shrewsbury’s Cound village offering classic British fare, cozy rooms, and scenic views by the River Severn.
The Yockleton Arms
28.6 km
A cosy, welcoming English pub near Shrewsbury, famed for its delicious Sunday roasts and friendly community atmosphere.
Bush Inn Herefordshire
30.2 km
A charming Herefordshire pub blending traditional fare with unique picnic teas and private dining domes for memorable gatherings.
The Abermule Inn
30.3 km
A family-run village pub and restaurant along the River Severn, offering award-winning homemade dishes and a welcoming atmosphere in Mid Wales.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rainbows End
12.2 km
Discover charming local crafts and unique gifts at Rainbows End, Church Stretton’s beloved boutique gift shop.
Empires & Eagles Vintage Collectables & Curiosities
13.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, unique collectibles, and vintage finds at Empires & Eagles in Bishops Castle, a must-visit for every treasure seeker.
Walkmill @ no 7
17.7 km
Explore Walkmill @ no 7 in Knighton for unique handmade crafts and local art, embodying the charm of Welsh culture in every piece.
The Old Shop 47 high st Presteigne powys LD8 2BE
21.1 km
Discover bespoke curtains and exquisite antiques at The Old Shop, a charming boutique in the historic market town of Presteigne.
P & S Gift Ideas
25.6 km
Explore P & S Gift Ideas, a charming gift shop in Montgomery offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of this beautiful town.
Made In Monty
25.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and unique gifts in the heart of historic Montgomery at Made In Monty.
The Window Dressers
26.0 km
Bespoke curtain makers in historic Montgomery offering personalized window dressings that blend tradition with style and function.
Bunners - R H Bunner & Son Ltd
26.0 km
Discover Bunners, Montgomery’s historic hardware emporium since 1892, offering an unmatched variety of tools, garden machinery, and more under one roof.
Always & Forever Personalised Gifts
26.0 km
Crafting timeless personalized gifts in Montgomery that celebrate your most cherished moments with exquisite detail and heartfelt meaning.
National Trust Gift Shop
30.4 km
Discover unique local crafts and heritage gifts at the National Trust Gift Shop within the historic Attingham Park estate.
Mr. Benn’s Emporium - Gift Shop
30.5 km
Discover unique Welsh crafts and souvenirs in the historic charm of New Radnor’s Old Town Hall at Mr. Benn’s Emporium.
Escos
30.5 km
Your friendly village convenience store in New Radnor, offering local produce and essentials in a welcoming Welsh countryside setting.
Oberon
31.2 km
Discover Oberon, Shrewsbury’s boutique for artisanal leather goods and shoes, blending historic charm with quality craftsmanship.
La Vie
31.2 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and exquisite homewares in the heart of Shrewsbury’s historic Wyle Cop.
Ella Cru
31.2 km
Discover curated women's fashion and footwear in a charming medieval boutique on Shrewsbury’s historic Wyle Cop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ragleth Inn
10.3 km
A warm and cosy gastropub nestled in the scenic Shropshire countryside, offering excellent ales, fresh food, and friendly village charm.
The Three Tuns Inn
13.3 km
Step into centuries of history at The Three Tuns Inn, Bishops Castle’s cozy pub offering local cuisine and exceptional ales in a warm, historic setting.
Horse & Jockey
17.6 km
Historic 14th-century coaching inn in Knighton offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and a lively pub atmosphere with a welcoming Welsh charm.
The Bateman Arms at Shobdon
20.0 km
Historic 18th-century country inn in Shobdon offering hearty local cuisine, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality in the heart of Herefordshire.
The Royal Oak
21.0 km
Historic family-run pub in Presteigne offering a warm atmosphere and a unique blend of traditional British and Indian cuisine.
Miners Arms
21.1 km
Rustic country pub on the Welsh-Shropshire border offering authentic ales, hearty fare, and a warm, tranquil atmosphere in the Shropshire Hills.
The Farmers Inn
21.1 km
A warm, traditional pub and inn in Presteigne offering hearty food, cozy rooms, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Radnorshire Arms
24.1 km
Historic 17th-century Welsh pub offering hearty meals, local ales, and warm hospitality in the tranquil Teme Valley near Knighton.
The Stagg Inn
24.3 km
Historic pub and Michelin-starred dining nestled in the peaceful Herefordshire countryside, blending rustic charm with refined culinary delights.
The Sarn
24.9 km
A renovated rural pub in Newtown offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
The Upper House Inn
27.4 km
A welcoming rural pub in Llandyssil offering classic Welsh hospitality, great value drinks, and hearty local fare in a cozy countryside setting.
The Cattle Shed
28.2 km
Cozy café nestled in historic Penrhos Court grounds, offering fresh local fare and tranquil rural views near Kington.
The Harp Inn
29.2 km
Historic 15th-century Welsh country pub offering hearty fare, cozy lodging, and warm hospitality in scenic Old Radnor countryside.
The Mytton & Mermaid
29.6 km
Historic riverside pub and hotel blending traditional charm with modern comfort and fresh, high-end cuisine in scenic Atcham.
The Kerry Lamb
29.9 km
A cozy pub in Kerry, Powys, serving fresh homemade British classics with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and great value.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Family Friendly
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
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly