
Someries Castle
Explore the atmospheric red-brick ruins of a 15th-century fortified manor house, steeped in history and local legend.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Someries Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the atmospheric red-brick ruins of a 15th-century fortified manor house, steeped in history and local legend.
"The ruins are cool and definitely worth a look, offering a glimpse into early brick architecture."

Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Grounds can be uneven and overgrown with nettles. Protect your feet and ankles.
Check Road Conditions :car:
The access road is a farm track with potholes; ensure your vehicle is suitable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gatehouse and Chapel
Main ruin structure
Marvel at the impressive 15th-century red-brick gatehouse, which once incorporated a chapel. It's a testament to early brick architecture in England.

Historic Red-Brick Architecture
Throughout the ruins
Admire the distinctive red-brick construction, a rarity for its time, showcasing medieval craftsmanship.

Atmospheric Ruins
Entire site
Wander through the evocative remains of this fortified manor house, imagining its past grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Ruins
Best Time for a Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Grounds can be uneven and overgrown with nettles. Protect your feet and ankles.
Check Road Conditions :car:
The access road is a farm track with potholes; ensure your vehicle is suitable.
Short Visit Recommended :stopwatch:
Ideal for a quick stop, most visitors spend around 15-30 minutes exploring.
Beware of Nettles :herb:
The grounds can be unkempt with nettles, so be cautious, especially with children.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Grounds can be uneven and overgrown with nettles. Protect your feet and ankles.
Check Road Conditions :car:
The access road is a farm track with potholes; ensure your vehicle is suitable.
Short Visit Recommended :stopwatch:
Ideal for a quick stop, most visitors spend around 15-30 minutes exploring.
Beware of Nettles :herb:
The grounds can be unkempt with nettles, so be cautious, especially with children.
Bring Insect Repellent :bug:
Depending on the season, you might encounter insects in the grassy areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Someries Castle to be an interesting historical ruin with impressive red-brick architecture, particularly the gatehouse. However, the site is often described as unkempt, with overgrown nettles and an uneven access road, making it less ideal for young children or those with mobility issues. The atmospheric ruins and local ghost stories add to its unique appeal.
"My husband and I came for a quick visit while in the area. The ruins are cool and definitely worth a look. I would caution you if you are bringing children, as the grounds were very grown-up and we encountered some nettles while walking around."
Amber Blagg
"The castles name is derived from William de Someries who had a residence on this site. The site was acquired by Sir John Wenlock and in 1430 building commenced on the site, it is described as one of the earliest brick buildings in England but by this date there were at least 100 other such brick buildings. It is a fortified manor house rather than a castle but it was never fully completed as Wenlock was killed at the battle of Tewkesbury in 1471, his ghost is said to haunt the castle. It was partly demolished in the 18th century although the gatehouse incorporating the chapel and lodge still stands, bricks from the site have been reused in the nearby farm buildings. Very bumpy ride to see it and off the beaten track but worth a visit for castle lovers."
stephen mudie
"Just visited here, very unkempt full of nettles and weeds, literally fenced as tight as it could be so very hard to get around the ruins and through them due to the unkempt nature not worth bringing little kids or dogs but nice brickwork to view!"
JPG 2019
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Someries Castle is accessed via a farm track road that can be bumpy and prone to flooding, so it's best suited for vehicles that can handle rough terrain. It's located near Luton, and while public transport might be limited directly to the site, local buses can get you to Luton town, from where you might need a taxi or a longer walk.
Yes, there is convenient parking adjacent to the castle ruins, making it easy to access the site.
The road leading to Someries Castle is described as a farm track with many potholes, so it may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially low-clearance cars.
While it's possible to walk, the access road is a farm track, and the surrounding grounds can be overgrown. It's advisable to check local walking routes and be prepared for uneven terrain.
Yes, Someries Castle is located near the Luton London Airport airfield, and visitors have noted the interesting sight of planes taking off and landing nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Someries Castle is a historic ruin, and typically, access to such sites is free. There are no mentions of admission fees in reviews or social media posts.
As an open-air ruin, Someries Castle is generally accessible at any time. However, it's always a good idea to check for any local advisories or temporary closures before visiting.
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Someries Castle. It's a historical site that can be explored freely.
While the site is open, visiting at night might be challenging due to the lack of lighting and potentially uneven terrain. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
While Someries Castle is a significant historical site, it is not explicitly stated to be managed by English Heritage in the provided information. It's often described as ruins that can be explored.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the remains of the 15th-century fortified manor house, including the impressive red-brick gatehouse and chapel. It's a great spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Local legends suggest Someries Castle is haunted by the ghost of Sir John Wenlock, who died violently. Visitors have reported strange noises and paranormal activity.
The ruins are described as unkempt in places, with grass and weeds needing a trim. Nettles are also present, so caution is advised.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes mentioned at the castle ruins. It's a historical site best visited with basic provisions.
Yes, the atmospheric ruins and unique brickwork make Someries Castle a popular spot for photography, especially for those interested in historical architecture and moody shots.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the imposing gatehouse and chapel for architectural shots. The surrounding overgrown areas can add a dramatic, moody feel to your photos, especially with the red brickwork.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the texture of the brick ruins. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer visitors.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, always check local drone laws and be respectful of the historical site and any potential wildlife.
It's excellent for historical, architectural, and atmospheric photography. The ruins lend themselves well to moody, dark fantasy, or liminal-style shots.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the site and any other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
🚶 History Buffs & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Medieval Architecture
The most prominent surviving structure is the gatehouse, which ingeniously incorporated a chapel and lodge. This architectural feature highlights the blend of defensive and residential purposes of the manor house. Even in its ruined state, the scale and construction method are striking, offering a tangible connection to medieval building techniques. Visitors often comment on the unique brickwork, appreciating its historical significance and aesthetic appeal.
While the castle was partly demolished in the 18th century, with bricks reused in nearby farm buildings, the remaining structures continue to captivate visitors. The atmospheric nature of the ruins, combined with local ghost stories, adds another layer of intrigue to its historical narrative.
The Legend of Sir John Wenlock
According to local tales, the ghost of Sir John Wenlock haunts the castle ruins. Visitors have reported experiencing paranormal activity, including strange noises and a general sense of unease. This spectral association has made Someries Castle a point of interest for those fascinated by haunted locations and ghost stories.
The castle's history is intertwined with the Wars of the Roses, a period of intense conflict that ultimately led to Wenlock's demise. The ruins, therefore, are not just a historical site but also a place imbued with legend and mystery, drawing in those curious about the supernatural and the echoes of the past.
Exploring the Grounds and Surroundings
Despite the unkempt nature, the location offers a unique visual experience. The proximity to the Luton London Airport airfield provides an interesting backdrop, with visitors enjoying the sight of planes taking off and landing. This adds a modern contrast to the ancient ruins, creating a distinctive atmosphere.
The access road itself is a notable feature, described as a farm track with potholes. This off-the-beaten-track feel contributes to the castle's secluded charm but also requires careful navigation. The overall experience is one of discovering a hidden historical gem, albeit one that requires a bit of adventurous spirit to fully appreciate.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit