Zouch Riverside and Lock
Explore the ruins of Ashby Castle, a historic English Heritage site with Civil War significance, a unique tunnel, and scenic grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for picnics
Zouch Riverside and Lock
Best Time
Perfect for picnics
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ruins of Ashby Castle, a historic English Heritage site with Civil War significance, a unique tunnel, and scenic grounds.
"A gem of a castle with a unique tunnel and entertaining audio tour, well worth the visit!"
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park in Ashby town; South St is free on Sundays. Be mindful of permit-only zones.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to explore the entire castle grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hidden Tunnel
Kitchen to Tower
A unique underground passage offering a fun and adventurous exploration, a rare find at castles.
The Old Tower
Castle Grounds
Climb the stairs of the old tower for panoramic views and a sense of history within the castle ruins.
Civil War History
Throughout the Castle
Discover the castle's role in the Civil War through informative boards and its preserved ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Explore the Hidden Tunnel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park in Ashby town; South St is free on Sundays. Be mindful of permit-only zones.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to explore the entire castle grounds.
☕ Coffee & Grounds
Enjoy a coffee from the shop while relaxing in the beautiful, well-kept castle grounds.
📖 Consider a Guidebook
Info boards are present, but a guidebook offers deeper insights into the castle's history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park in Ashby town; South St is free on Sundays. Be mindful of permit-only zones.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to explore the entire castle grounds.
☕ Coffee & Grounds
Enjoy a coffee from the shop while relaxing in the beautiful, well-kept castle grounds.
📖 Consider a Guidebook
Info boards are present, but a guidebook offers deeper insights into the castle's history.
🤫 Find the Tunnel!
Keep an eye out for the fascinating hidden tunnel connecting the kitchen to the tower.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ashby Castle as a gem, highlighting its well-kept grounds, unique hidden tunnel, and entertaining audio tour. The historical significance, particularly its Civil War past, is appreciated. While parking requires planning, the overall experience is considered well worth the entry fee, making it a lovely day out for many.
"Another gem of a castle. Definitely worth visiting if you are a member and in the area.
The audio tour is very humorous and entertaining.
There's an old tower to go up and a tunnel to go down. Nice grassy areas for a picnic and a small shop with a drinks machine.
No parking, and you need to be very careful locally as there is mostly "permit only" or Pay and Display in the town."
Brian Morrall
"Lovely little walk around Ashby castle. Dogs (on leads) are allowed all round the site. The shop offers coffee so was lovely to sit and have a coffee in these beautiful grounds. It is part of English heritage also, which we signed up for so will be returning ❤️"
Maria Kitty
"Stunningly kept grounds, really friendly staff that were fully transparent about issues they had at the time.
Says a lot about a place that takes care of the little things. Well worth the entry price and the walk up the stairs was fun!
Keep an eye out for the hidden tunnel!
And the town is only a short walk from the car park, plenty of places to browse and a beautiful local butchers. Lovely day out."
Jordan Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parking is limited on-site to disabled bays only. Visitors should park in Ashby town. Options include pay-and-display or permit-only zones. South St car park is a good option, free on Sundays and about a 5-minute walk away.
There are only a few disabled parking spaces available on-site. The grounds are expansive, and while some areas are accessible, the tower and tunnel may present challenges.
Yes, the town center is a short walk from the castle grounds, making it convenient to combine your visit with exploring Ashby.
Information on specific bus routes is not readily available, but Ashby town is served by local bus services. Check local transport schedules for routes to Ashby.
Ashby Castle is located in Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It's approximately 10-15 miles from Leicester and Derby, making it a feasible day trip from these cities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply, but it's considered well worth the price by many visitors. Consider an English Heritage membership if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Booking in advance is generally recommended, especially during peak season or weekends, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Yes, Ashby Castle is managed by English Heritage, offering access to members and providing the usual high standards of site maintenance and information.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. English Heritage members get free entry. Check the official website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the castle ruins, climb the old tower, discover the unique hidden tunnel, and learn about its Civil War history. There are also lovely grounds for picnics. +1
The audio tour is highly recommended for its humorous and entertaining narration, adding an engaging layer to your visit.
Photography is generally permitted within the castle grounds and ruins for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain areas.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available on-site, along with a small shop and a drinks machine.
Children often enjoy exploring the ruins, climbing the tower, and especially the hidden tunnel. The grounds are also great for them to run around.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A small shop offers hot drinks and some refreshments. It's a good spot for a quick coffee, but for full meals, plan to eat in Ashby town. +1
Absolutely! The nice grassy areas and beautiful grounds are perfect for a picnic, especially during warmer months. +1
Yes, Ashby town center is a short walk away and offers a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants for dining options.
Bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic is generally allowed and encouraged, especially given the limited on-site food options.
The shop typically offers hot drinks like coffee and tea, and a drinks machine for other beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The old tower offers great vantage points. The ruins themselves provide dramatic backdrops, and the tunnel offers unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites like English Heritage properties. Always check the official website or contact them directly for drone policies.
Professional photoshoots may require special permission or booking. Contact English Heritage in advance to inquire about their policies.
Golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) can offer beautiful light for capturing the castle's atmosphere. Midday can be harsh but still offers good visibility.
While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid flash photography in enclosed areas where it might damage artifacts or disturb other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited. Consider a picnic in the beautiful grounds, which is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Parking in Ashby town is the main consideration, so plan your arrival accordingly, especially if you have little ones.
🐶 Dog Owners
Enjoying the grounds with your dog: The expansive and well-kept grounds offer plenty of space for dogs to enjoy. You can even grab a coffee from the shop and relax with your dog by your side. It’s a great way to combine a historical visit with outdoor activity for your pet.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
Maximizing your visit: Consider purchasing a guidebook for in-depth historical context. Take your time to wander through the different sections of the castle, imagining its former glory and the events that unfolded here. The climb up the tower offers not only views but also a sense of the castle's defensive structure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Unearthing the Civil War History
The remnants of the castle today offer a tangible connection to this historical conflict. While much of it is in ruins, the surviving structures, like the tower and the remnants of its defenses, speak volumes about its past. Understanding the context of the Civil War adds a deeper layer of appreciation to the site, transforming it from mere ruins into a historical battlefield.
Consider picking up a guidebook or utilizing the audio tour to fully grasp the historical significance of Ashby Castle during the Civil War. These resources often provide detailed accounts and context that bring the past to life, making your exploration more immersive and educational.
The Unique Appeal of the Hidden Tunnel
Navigating the tunnel is often described as a highlight of the visit. It’s a chance to step back in time and imagine the castle's inhabitants using this secret route. While not overly long or complex, its presence is a memorable feature that sets Ashby Castle apart from many other ruins. Be sure to look out for its entrance and exit points to fully experience this unique aspect of the castle.
Many visitors recommend seeking out the tunnel as a must-do activity. It’s a fun and engaging element that appeals to all ages, adding an exciting dimension to the historical exploration of the castle grounds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit