iTravelUK > Attractions > Castles > England > Southwest > Dorset
Highcliffe Castle was built by Lord Stuart de Rothesay between 1831 and 1835. Designed by William Donthorne, Highcliffe Castle was constructed mostly out of medieval materials. Now a Grade 1 listed building, Highcliffe Castle remained in the ownership of the Rothesay family for over a hundred years.
Lulworth Castle was built by Thomas Howard, 3rd Earl of Bindon, in the 17th century as a hunting lodge to provide entertainment for the King and Court. In 1641, Lulworth Castle was purchased by a direct ancestor of the present owners, Humphrey Weld.
Portland Castle is one of Henry VIII's best preserved coastal defences. Originally constructed to protect the mainland from the French, Portland Castle ironically never saw battle with an overseas invader but only against its own countrymen.
A 'D' shaped fort, Nothe Fort is deemed to be the finest Victorian military structure in England. Constructed in the 1860's, Nothe Fort continued to be manned until after WWII.
Built by Henry VIII in the 1540's, Sandsfoot Castle saw a Civil War siege and drama in the Monmouth rebellion. Now a ruins, Sandsfoot Castle is a historic building at risk due to the unstable cliff upon which it stands.