Odiham Castle (King John's Castle)
Explore the 13th-century ruins of King John's Castle, a former royal hunting lodge, accessed via a scenic canal walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful exploration
Odiham Castle (King John's Castle)
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 13th-century ruins of King John's Castle, a former royal hunting lodge, accessed via a scenic canal walk.
"A lovely ruin with so much history, perfect for a peaceful walk along the canal."
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is scarce; consider a short walk from nearby spots. :car:
🚶♀️ Scenic Canal Approach
The walk along the Basingstoke Canal is a highlight itself. :canal:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Flint Keep Ruins
Central Courtyard
Explore the impressive remains of the octagonal, three-story keep, a testament to medieval architecture.
Basingstoke Canal Walk
Approach to the castle
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Basingstoke Canal, leading you to the castle ruins with lovely views.
Moated Enclosures
Outer perimeter
Imagine the castle's former grandeur as you view the remnants of its two moated enclosures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Peaceful Ruin with a Royal Past
Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is scarce; consider a short walk from nearby spots. :car:
🚶♀️ Scenic Canal Approach
The walk along the Basingstoke Canal is a highlight itself. :canal:
📜 History Boards
Read the information boards for fascinating historical context. :scroll:
🧺 Picnic Spot
Perfect place for a picnic with lovely canal views. :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is scarce; consider a short walk from nearby spots. :car:
🚶♀️ Scenic Canal Approach
The walk along the Basingstoke Canal is a highlight itself. :canal:
📜 History Boards
Read the information boards for fascinating historical context. :scroll:
🧺 Picnic Spot
Perfect place for a picnic with lovely canal views. :picnic_table:
🐶 Dog-Friendly
Great spot for a walk with your dog, especially along the canal. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Odiham Castle for its historical significance and the beautiful, peaceful approach along the Basingstoke Canal. It's a free, compact ruin ideal for a short visit or a picnic. While parking is limited and the site itself is small, the scenic walk and historical insights make it a worthwhile stop.
"Beautiful castle with so much history. A lovely walk along canal with my dog to get to it. Ample parking, I got my Motorhome parked up and snuck in a cuppa and lunch."
Jude Monk
"We walked along the canal and followed the brown signs to 'castle'.
A little tucked away, but a lovely ruin.
Plenty of signs explaining the history of the castle.
Definitely worth going to see.
We also saw a few paddleboarders."
Elaine Wickwar
"Headed here after a day of sightseeing in the area & the castle ruins looked beautiful in the setting sun. There’s a small lay-by to park in then it’s a walk over the bridge & along the canal to the ruins."
The G Force
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Odiham Castle is accessible via a pleasant walk along the Basingstoke Canal. Follow brown signs for 'castle' from the canal towpath. Parking is limited nearby, so arriving early or parking a short distance away is recommended.
Parking directly at the castle is very limited, often described as a small lay-by. Visitors often find parking a short walk away and then enjoy the canal-side approach to the ruins.
While there isn't direct public transport to the castle itself, you can reach the nearby town of Odiham by bus and then enjoy a walk to the castle along the canal.
Many visitors enjoy the scenic approach along the Basingstoke Canal, which offers lovely views and a peaceful walk before reaching the castle ruins.
Yes, one reviewer mentioned successfully parking their motorhome nearby and enjoying lunch before visiting the castle, suggesting it's feasible with careful planning.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Odiham Castle is free, making it an accessible historical site for everyone to explore.
As an open-air ruin, Odiham Castle can be visited at any time. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
No, booking tickets is not required as Odiham Castle is a free-to-enter historical site.
The approach along the canal towpath is generally flat, but the castle ruins themselves may present uneven terrain, making full wheelchair accessibility challenging.
There are no specific visitor facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the castle ruins. It's advisable to come prepared with any necessities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the remains of the 13th-century flint keep, the moated enclosures, and learn about its history through informative boards. It's a compact ruin, ideal for a short visit.
A visit to Odiham Castle is typically short, with many visitors spending around 5 to 10 minutes at the ruins themselves, plus time for the walk along the canal.
Yes, the castle ruins look beautiful, especially in the setting sun. The canal-side approach also offers picturesque photo opportunities.
Built by King John between 1207-1214, it served as a royal hunting lodge and was besieged by the French in 1216. It's a significant example of a medieval royal castle.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Odiham Castle, and many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the adjacent Basingstoke Canal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities at the castle itself. Visitors often bring picnics to enjoy by the canal or visit nearby pubs and cafes in the town of Odiham.
Absolutely! The canal-side location makes it a perfect spot for a picnic. Many visitors find it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ruins themselves are compact, the surrounding area provides space for children to explore safely. Bringing a picnic to enjoy by the canal is highly recommended, turning the visit into a full outdoor experience. Remember to supervise children closely around the uneven terrain of the ruins.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Day-Trippers
As a day-trip destination, Odiham Castle is perfect for those looking for a peaceful, low-key historical site. Its proximity to the Basingstoke Canal adds an element of natural beauty, making it a well-rounded experience. Combine it with a visit to the nearby town of Odiham for a more comprehensive local exploration.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's a great spot for a leisurely walk followed by a bit of historical discovery. Remember to keep your dog on a lead where appropriate, especially along the canal, and to clean up after them. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an enjoyable outing for both you and your dog.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Retreat: The History of Odiham Castle
The remains we see today are primarily of this formidable keep, which stood three stories high. Over time, parts of the moats were altered or removed, particularly with the construction of the Basingstoke Canal. Despite its ruinous state, the castle offers a tangible connection to England's medieval past, allowing visitors to imagine its former glory as a royal stronghold and a place of leisure for the king and his court.
Visitors often remark on the castle's peaceful atmosphere and the informative boards that detail its rich history. The blend of natural beauty along the canal and the historical significance of the ruins makes Odiham Castle a compelling, albeit brief, historical excursion.
The Scenic Journey: Approaching Odiham Castle
This canal-side walk is more than just a means to an end; it's an integral part of the experience. The gentle path, the reflections on the water, and the surrounding greenery create a serene ambiance. It's a perfect opportunity for dog walkers and those seeking a peaceful stroll before immersing themselves in the castle's history. The brown signs directing visitors to the 'castle' are a helpful guide along this charming route.
This approach enhances the sense of discovery, as the castle ruins gradually emerge into view. It transforms a simple visit to a historical site into a mini-adventure, combining natural beauty with historical exploration. The ease of access via the canal makes it a popular choice for a relaxed outing.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit