About Old Wardour Castle
Explore this atmospheric hexagonal fortress near Tisbury, where dramatic Civil War battles left their mark on the striking ruins that stand today amid beautiful landscaped grounds.
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Payment
- ✓Credit cards
- ✓Debit cards
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
We had a lovely visit to the castle. The weather was spectacular and it was such a treat to be able to walk inside the castle, when so many others are viewing only. There's plenty of grass this children to run on also. There are stairs to different levels in the castle ruins and also stairs down to the toilets. We purchased some mead from the shop on the way out and the staff were very obliging with tastings. Well worth the visit, especially on a good weather day ☀️🏰
· via Google
We visited the castle this week and, overall, found it very picturesque with impressive ruins and well-maintained grounds. The architecture is still very visible despite the damage the castle has sustained over the years, and there is clearly a rich history here with a lot of potential. However, accessibility was a significant concern. The disabled toilet was not RADAR key accessible, and staff appeared to be using it and locking it afterwards. It was locked in front of me while I was waiting nearby, and I wasn’t acknowledged. The only other toilets we saw were down extremely steep stairs, which would be impossible for many people with mobility issues to use. We also didn’t see any clearly marked disabled parking. The main car park was full when we arrived, and people had begun parking on the lawn, so we followed suit. Without that option, we likely wouldn’t have been able to enter after travelling there, despite arriving fairly early. The visit itself was quite short — I’d say around 1h. We live nearby, so it still felt worthwhile, but if we had travelled further, we may have left disappointed. There could be more historical information around the site, especially as Neolithic stone was mentioned at the entrance but wasn’t made clear while walking around. There were information boards dotted around the site, but we didn't find them particularly easy to spot. We didn't use the audio guide, so some of the interpretation may be provided there. Overall, it is a beautiful and atmospheric place with a lot of charm, but it would benefit from improved accessibility and more engaging interpretation to help visitors get the most out of its fascinating history. I also think the site could benefit from more seating and a small benched picnic area, particularly in the empty garden section.
· via Google
The castle ruins are still accessible via steps. And the views do not disappoint. Downside of this castle is there isnt a café, however you can purchase cold drinks, ice creams, crips and sweets from the souvenir shop. The beautiful garden is a great place for you to enjoy your own picnic.
· via Google
Really atmospheric. The history is well explained and you are free to ramble around lota of twiaty staircases. There is more to see than meeta the eye from outside. Entry fee not extortionate, though this is not National Trust. Allow time to get there as the roads are equally narrow and twisty!
· via Google
Visitors say this castle features impressive, well-preserved ruins that are great for exploring, with multiple accessible levels and stunning views. They also highlight the beautiful, well-maintained grounds, which are perfect for picnics and offer a peaceful atmosphere. Guests mention the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the reasonable entry fees and convenient on-site parking.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Tisbury, Salisbury, SP3 6RR Get directions
- Category
- Castles & Palaces
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (1,953 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Salisbury