Sunday, October 30, 2011

Castles in Dorset

Kings and queens used to live in the beautiful castles in Dorset. These castles are worth a visit while you are staying in your spacious Dorset holiday cottages. Some of the majestic castles that are worth visiting are the Lulworth Estate, Maiden Castle and the Sherborne Castle. Complete your holiday in Dorset by visiting one of these castles and travel back to the time of the kings and queens.

Lulworth Estate

Taking a trip to Lulworth Estate should be a part of your itinerary during your Dorset vacation while staying in one of the luxurious Dorset holiday cottages. It is famous for its exquisite cove and beautiful waterfront. The estate holds a castle, a house, a park, and the stunning landscaped gardens all over the entire estate. When you visit the estate, you get the chance to see several works of art such as paintings and statues that has been passed on through three generations of families. The scenic 18th century park is relaxing to walk around and explore. This is where the Lulworth House is currently situated. The estate is truly worth a visit because you get to its many wonderful sights and attractions plus get to take a glimpse of Dorset history.

Maiden Castle

The largest fort in the United Kingdom during the Iron Age is still up and standing to this date. The Maiden Castle was built hundreds of years ago in 600 BC. Located in Dorchester, the castle is a must-see during your Dorset vacation since it is near the Dorset holiday cottages. The castle underwent years of transformations as different people owned and took control of the castle. Renovations and improvements were made on the castle as expansions and additional lines of defences were built to strengthen the castle against its foes. It was initially built on top of the remains of the Neolithic settlement at around 600BC. Many people have lived and settled in the castle from 800 BC to 43 AD when the Romans took over the castle. Visiting this castle is like going several hundreds of years back. Every part of the castle is really worth exploring.

Sherborne Castle

Take a trip to Sherborne Castle while enjoying a splendid stay in your holiday cottages. Walk back in history as you step foot in this castle built in the 12th century. It was Roger Bishop of Salisbury who built the castle as a part of his diocese in the 12th century. In 1592, Sir Walter Raleigh gained possession of the castle and built another house in the deer park. The castle was then given a square look when Sir John Digby, a diplomat added four wings to the castle in 1617. It was in 1969 that the castle opened for public viewing. Currently the Wingfield Digby family is still the current owner of the castle. It is great to walk around and explore the castle before retiring to your Dorset holiday cottages.