Sundorne Castle

Sundorne Castle sits just outside Shrewsbury, a red sandstone fortress that catches you off guard if you're not expecting it. It's a proper Victorian affair - built in the 1830s rather than medieval, which some find disappointing until they actually see the place. The castle's all crenellations and turrets, the sort of romantic ruin that makes you understand why the Victorians got obsessed with their own version of history.

You can walk the grounds and get decent photos from the perimeter, though access to the interior varies depending on what's happening that day - it's worth ringing ahead rather than turning up hoping. The setting's the real draw: surrounded by countryside but close enough to Shrewsbury that you're not miles from anywhere. If you're camping at Ebury Hill or Beaconsfield, both within a couple of miles, it's an easy half-hour wander to work off breakfast.

Historically minded types will appreciate the architecture, and it photographs well at golden hour. Kids usually find it interesting for twenty minutes or so - the castle itself is relatively compact, not one of those sprawling estates where you need a full day. Families based at Springfield Riverside or Sunnyside Farm have it within striking distance for an afternoon visit.

Don't expect a full day here. Pair it with a walk along the River Severn or a proper look around Shrewsbury's medieval streets and you've got something worthwhile. The castle works best as part of the picture, not the main event.