Which British castle holds the most powerful grip on the nation's imagination?

Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, it has served as a royal palace, an infamous prison and an execution site. Few places carry such a dense weight of English history.

Perched atop Castle Rock, it has witnessed sieges, royal births and the safekeeping of the Honours of Scotland. A defining symbol of Scottish identity.

For over 900 years it has been a working home for British monarchs, from Henry VIII to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Tradition and ceremony still shape its daily life.

Built in the 13th century to cement English rule over Wales, its polygonal towers and banded walls remain hugely imposing. It hosted the investiture of Prince Charles in 1969.

Founded by William the Conqueror and shaped by the powerful Earls of Warwick, it remains one of England's most complete medieval fortresses. Today it draws crowds with jousts and trebuchet displays.