The hill-top castle with incredible views perfect for a day trip from Manchester

There’s something magical about exploring the ruins of a castle and imagining what life was like hundreds of years ago. With still a few more days left of the summer holidays to do, a visit to a castle is guaranteed to keep kids entertained and capture their imaginations.

Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Beeston Castle is around an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Manchester, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. The impressive ruin sits on top of a rocky crag where it towers over the surrounding fields.

From the top it offers breath-taking panoramic views and on a clear day you can even see as far as The Pennines and the Welsh Mountains. There’s a footbridge which takes you directly inside the ruins where you can see the sturdy walls up close.

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The castle was built in the 1220s by the 6th Earl of Chester and it was well-maintained until the 16th century. After being briefly used during the English Civil War it was partly demolished in 1646.

Beeston Castle is even home to the deepest castle well in England. It’s reputedly where Richard II’s lost treasure was buried 1399 although it’s never been found.

The site has been occupied since the Bronze Ages and there is a replica Bronze Age Roundhouse located in the grounds. You can learn more about the site’s history at the Castle of the Rock exhibition.

There’s several walking routes to follow through the woodland which surrounds the castle. It’s rich in a variety of wildlife so you may spot foxes, rabbits and even peregrine falcons on your walk.

Beeston Castle is operated by English Heritage and it’s open daily from 10am until 5pm.