BRITAIN'S BEST CASTLE DAYS OUT

From regal retreats to fearsome fortresses, discover the country's most impressive castles

- ZACHARY SWEENEY-LYNCH

Best for... spooky stories

BOLSOVER CASTLE

It might look like a fairytale fortress, but Bolsover Castle is not for the faint-hearted. The Stuart mansion has been voted English Heritage's spookiest site, with staff reporting mysterious footsteps, slamming doors, muffled voices and the ghost of a boy – who is said to sometimes hold visitors' hands. Join a ghost tour to hear spine-tingling tales of the supernatural or explore the castle's grand halls and gardens yourself. Don't miss the recently restored Wall Walk, a circular trail stretching around the castle garden that offers panoramic views across the Derbyshire countryside.

ENTRY: £12.90 per adult, english-heritage.org.uk

Best for... Downtown Abbey fans

HIGHCLERE CASTLE