Normandy is famous for its history and heritage, and it has a wonderful collection of castles, manor houses and grand residences to match. Whether you are spending a full holiday here with the children or simply passing through for a weekend, you will never be short of things to do in this beautiful corner of France. Here is our pick of the 11 finest castles you really should see during your stay in Normandy.
1. Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet
Just outside Lisieux, the Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet is an architectural gem that brings together medieval and Renaissance styles. With its colourful timber framing and formal French gardens, it ranks among the prettiest castles in Normandy. You will be won over by the leafy setting and by its beautiful Gothic chapel. A visit here is well worth your time and makes for a lovely family day out.
2. Château de Carrouges
The Château de Carrouges stands proudly at the heart of the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, it blends architectural styles in brick and stone and tells the story of how military design evolved over the centuries. On a guided tour you can explore the furnished interiors and the formal French gardens.
3. Château de Crèvecoeur
The Château de Crèvecoeur, in Crèvecoeur-en-Auge, is a rare and precious example of medieval architecture in Normandy. Ringed by moats, it features a castle mound, a Romanesque chapel and fortified dovecotes. It also houses a museum on everyday life in the Middle Ages, with plenty of activities for younger visitors. A tour of this remarkable site is a treat for the whole family during your stay in Normandy.
4. William the Conqueror’s Castle in Caen
Built in the 11th century by the Duke of Normandy, this castle sits on a hill overlooking the city of Caen. It was enlarged and altered over the centuries yet has always kept its medieval character. Today it is home to a museum showing collections of art and archaeology. The Château de Guillaume le Conquérant is a symbol of both Caen and the Calvados region, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
In the heart of Normandy
5. Château de Martainville
Built in the 16th century, the imposing Château de Martainville is one of the few Norman seigneurial residences to have survived intact to this day. Now home to the Museum of Normandy, it holds an exceptional collection of objects that reflect regional traditions and craftsmanship, along with plenty of hands-on, family-friendly activities. A visit to this history-filled place is a must on any holiday in Normandy.
6. Château Gaillard
Perched on top of a rocky spur, Château Gaillard looks out grandly over the Seine valley and the town of Les Andelys. This medieval fortress was built under Richard the Lionheart and is a landmark example of Anglo-Norman military architecture, with spectacular views over the loops of the Seine. A short way from Rouen, a visit to this superb castle is one of the highlights of any trip through Normandy.
7. Château de Pirou
Surrounded by moats, the mysterious Château de Pirou, in the Manche, is a medieval fortress that still has its original defences: two successive curtain walls with fortified gateways. As well as its striking architecture, the site has a fine octagonal dovecote from the 16th century and gardens with a calm, romantic feel. Pirou is one of the best places to take in Normandy’s rich medieval history.
8. William the Conqueror’s Castle in Falaise
The birthplace of William the Conqueror, the Château de Falaise was one of the most impregnable fortresses of the Middle Ages. Standing over the town from its rocky spur, it now houses an interactive, hands-on museum that takes visitors into the heart of the Norman saga and the story of William, sovereign duke and King of England. Make the most of this fascinating place by touring one of Normandy’s most iconic castles.
9. Château de Gacé
The charming Château de Gacé, in the Orne, has a striking design with its round corner towers and tall spires. Now home to the Musée Charbonneau-Lassay, it hosts temporary exhibitions and guided tours that bring out its eventful history and many anecdotes. This historic site is an important example of medieval architecture in Normandy.
10. Château de Dieppe
The last reminder of the town’s rich seafaring past, the Château de Dieppe overlooks the sea and offers a wonderful panorama. It is now home to the Dieppe Museum, which brings together objects tied to local history and an exceptional collection of carved ivories. Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions and the workshops on Norman art and heritage techniques. A visit to this superb building is a great way to appreciate Normandy’s medieval history.
11. Château de Soquence
In the town of Sahurs, not far from Rouen, the Château de Soquence is made up of two main parts. The first is a manor house built in the Renaissance style in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The second, known as the new castle, was built in the mid-19th century in a neo-Renaissance style. This splendid Norman castle has been a listed historic monument since 1999 and is open to visitors.
These unmissable castles will help you get a real feel for Normandy’s cultural and historical heritage while enjoying a beautiful setting on your holiday in this lovely part of France. While you are travelling through Normandy, be sure to seek out these other kinds of landmarks too:
- Abbeys and monasteries: enjoy their grandeur and serenity on a visit
- Prehistoric caves and archaeological sites: trace the deep roots of human history in France
- Period hotels and villas: step into the life and architecture of centuries past in Deauville or Cabourg
Visiting castles in Normandy: a great day out, on your own or with the family
Normandy is full of places steeped in history, from the D-Day landing beaches to Mont-Saint-Michel, but this part of France also has plenty of castles to visit. Touring a castle is something you can enjoy just as easily on your own as with the family and children. Exploring a Norman castle is a sure way to have a great time while soaking up the history of France. Normandy is the perfect playground for discovering wonderful castles, so go ahead and set off to explore these fantastic sites!
Cycling along the Seine: the Impressionists’ route
Discover Norman castles on a cycling holiday with Normandie Rando
Set off to explore the loveliest towns in Normandy (Deauville, Honfleur, Cabourg and more) with our cycling holiday company. With Normandie Rando you can also discover Mont-Saint-Michel or the famous D-Day landing beaches. If you would like to explore some Norman castles on your trip, here are two cycling holiday ideas:
- Our “The Coast of Calvados” cycling holiday, which takes in William the Conqueror’s castle in the city of Caen.
- On the “Cycling Along the Seine, from Rouen to the Sea” holiday you will pass the beautiful Château de Soquence.
Treat yourself to an all-inclusive cycling holiday with Normandie Rando and discover the wonders of this fabulous region. On your own or with the family, look no further: trust us to give you a dream holiday or weekend in Normandy!
