9 Must-See European Castles from Film and TV Let’s be real. Europe does castles better than anyone. These stone stunners...Read More
9 Must-See European Castles from Film and TV
Let’s be real. Europe does castles better than anyone. These stone stunners have survived centuries of royal intrigue, epic battles, and now Hollywood. From Monty Python’s legendary hijinks to the dreamy romance of Bridgerton, many of the castles we grew up watching on screen are not only real, they’re still standing tall and waiting for you to explore.
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking in the footsteps of queens, knights, or even Princess Buttercup, consider this your royal invitation to explore the most iconic European castles from film and television, each one worthy of a starring role on your travel itinerary.
Doune Castle in Scotland
Featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, Outlander, Ivanhoe
Doune Castle might be one of the most famous faces in film. Built in the 13th century and restored after being roofless for most of the 1800s, this castle sits in the village of Doune in central Scotland. It’s a pilgrimage site for Monty Python fans and was featured as Winterfell in the Game of Thrones pilot and as Castle Leoch in Outlander. History buffs and film nerds alike will want to grab tickets in advance to explore this medieval icon.
Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, England
Featured in The Princess Bride, Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice
Haddon Hall is what happens when medieval charm and Hollywood stardom collide. With roots stretching back to the 11th century and a legendary romantic history (look up Dorothy Vernon’s secret elopement), this manor house has serious main character energy. You’ll recognize it from The Princess Bride, where it served as the royal castle of Florin. It’s the perfect setting for love stories, period dramas, and anyone who wants to feel like a literary heroine for the day.
Broughton Castle in Oxfordshire, England
Featured in Shakespeare in Love, Jane Eyre
A proper fairytale moat surrounds this 14th-century gem, still owned by the Fiennes family; yes, the one that includes Ralph and Joseph. It played a starring role in Shakespeare in Love and continues to enchant visitors each summer when it opens to the public. Between the historic interiors and lush gardens, it’s practically begging to be photographed during golden hour.
Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland, England
Featured in Elizabeth, Macbeth, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
Perched dramatically above the North Sea, Bamburgh Castle has been turning heads since the 5th century. Once a royal fortress and now a fully restored marvel, it’s made appearances in everything from Elizabeth to Indiana Jones. You can tour the castle, book it for weddings, and even take in the ocean views that made it a cinematic favorite. It’s history with a sea breeze.
Dover Castle in Kent, England
Featured in The Other Boleyn Girl, Into the Woods, Wolf Hall
Dover Castle is the textbook definition of a medieval fortress, with bell towers, battlements, and a cliffside location that’s pure drama. Its history spans from William the Conqueror to World War II, and its cinematic resume includes everything from period dramas to musicals. It is one of the most visited castles in England for good reason, so be sure to book tickets ahead of time.
Castle Howard in North Yorkshire, England
Featured in Bridgerton, Brideshead Revisited
Step into the world of high society at Castle Howard. Built in the 1700s and oozing Baroque elegance, this estate is instantly recognizable from Bridgerton. The interiors are ornate, the gardens are swoon-worthy, and the whole place looks like it was built for scandalous gossip and romantic plot twists. It also appeared in Brideshead Revisited and several other lavish productions. Book your visit online for a front-row seat to architectural beauty.
Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany
Inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle
Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Europe’s most recognizable landmarks. Commissioned by King Ludwig II, whose taste for the dramatic shaped its design, the castle famously inspired Walt Disney’s original fairytale castle. With its mountain backdrop, soaring turrets, and ever-changing light, it feels like a scene pulled from a storybook.
Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley, France
Featured in La Princesse de Montpensier, The Man in the Iron Mask
With its spiraling towers and French Renaissance flair, Chambord is a showstopper. Built for royalty and designed to impress, this chateau looks like it stepped straight out of a storybook. Its symmetry and grandeur make it a filmmaker favorite and a must-see on any castle tour of France.
Alcázar of Segovia in Spain
Featured in Conan the Barbarian, Kingdom of Heaven
Perched atop a rocky hill, the Alcázar of Segovia looks like something out of a dream. Or a battle scene. Or both. Its pointed turrets and commanding presence have made it a go-to for epic films. Bonus: it’s said to have inspired Cinderella’s castle. So yes, you’ll want to bring your camera and your imagination.
Plan Your Castle Adventure
These legendary locations are more than just gorgeous backdrops. They’re living history, open for exploration, and packed with stories, both ancient and cinematic.
Want help planning a custom castle-hopping itinerary through Europe? Whether you’re a film buff, a history lover, or just looking for your own royal moment, I’ve got you. Let’s make your fairytale trip a reality, no tiara required.
Planning your first trip to Alaska? Discover 10 unforgettable things to do including glacier cruises, dog sledding, the Northern Lights,...Read More
7 Reasons to Visit Italy During the Jubilee (Even If You’re Not Religious) Let’s talk about Jubilee year in Italy....Read More
Big Events, Bigger Adventures: 9 Events You’ll Want to Plan Around Why plan your travels around just a destination… when...Read More