Ashby de la Zouch Castle is one of the most atmospheric historic sites in Leicestershire, a medieval ruin that tells the story of England’s turbulent past. Managed by English Heritage, this grand site combines fascinating history, scenic views and interactive exploration. This practical guide explains ticket prices, parking, opening hours and everything you need to know before your visit.
History and overview of Ashby Castle
Ashby Castle began life in the 12th century as a manor house, but it was transformed into a fortress and grand residence by William, Lord Hastings, in the late 15th century. The castle’s fortified towers, great hall and elegant chapel made it one of the most impressive noble homes of its time, symbolising Hastings’ power and influence at court.
After Lord Hastings was executed by Richard III in 1483, the castle passed to his descendants, who continued to expand and embellish the estate. The addition of lavish gardens and luxurious apartments made Ashby a fashionable seat for the Tudor elite. During the English Civil War, it became a Royalist stronghold, besieged and eventually destroyed by Parliamentarian forces in 1646.
The castle never recovered from the damage inflicted during the war, but its romantic ruins later inspired Sir Walter Scott’s 1819 novel Ivanhoe. The book’s success drew early tourists to the site, cementing Ashby’s place as one of the Midlands’ most picturesque heritage landmarks.
Today, Ashby Castle offers visitors the chance to climb its tower for sweeping countryside views, explore underground tunnels and discover how the castle evolved over centuries.
Opening hours and ticket prices at Ashby Castle
Ashby Castle is open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm between April and October, and from 10.00am to 4.00pm on weekends only between November and March. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. The site occasionally hosts events and re-enactments, so it’s worth checking the English Heritage website before visiting.
Ticket prices are variable depending on when you visit. The lowest ‘super saver’ prices are for off-season visits, when booked at least a day in advance online. In these circumstances, it’s £7.20 for adults and £4 for children. Family tickets, which work out slightly cheaper, are also available, while Members of English Heritage enter free of charge.
Pay on the day in season, and prices go up to £11 for adults and £6 for children.
Tickets can be purchased on site or online in advance. Pre-booking isn’t required but can save time on busy days and is 15% cheaper.
Is it worth paying for English Heritage membership?
Entry prices for English Heritage sites, including Dover Castle, Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle, can seem extremely expensive. This is clearly a deliberate ploy to push visitors towards taking out annual English Heritage membership.
Membership gives free access to more than 400 sites across the country, and costs £82. That is, unless you get a special deal – there was a 25%-off Black Friday deal in November 2025, for example.
Whether that £82 is worth it depends on how many sites are near you (there are lots in the south of the country, not so many near me in Yorkshire). And, critically, whether you’re going to visit them with children.
Each member can take up to six children with them free of charge. Given the steep one-time entry fees, an adult member with two children is likely to recoup the cost of their membership by visiting just two or three sites within the year.
For an individual without children, I’d say English Heritage membership is worth it only if you’re planning to blitz a few sites in one year. For an individual with children, membership is a smart investment that will likely pay itself back within one school holiday. To me, it’s a no-brainer.
The real question is whether it’s worth renewing English Heritage membership after a year. That’s debatable, as you’re unlikely to go to many of these sites twice. I eventually renewed after I was offered 20% off the price. I’ll probably recoup the membership price visiting two sites in summer next year, even if I’ve ticked off most of the best ones near me.
If you buy membership through this link, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
How to get to Ashby Castle and parking
Ashby de la Zouch Castle is located in the centre of Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire (postcode LE65 1BR). The site is easily accessible by car from the A42, which connects to the M1 and M6 motorways. For those using public transport, regular bus services link Ashby with Leicester, Burton upon Trent and Coalville.
Parking is not available directly on site, but several public car parks are within a few minutes’ walk. The closest is the South Street car park (LE65 1BR), which charges 65p for up to an hour or £2.60 for the day. Free on-street parking can sometimes be found nearby, but spaces are limited. Disabled visitors can be dropped off at the entrance, and accessible parking is available close by in the town centre.
Accessibility and visitor facilities
The castle grounds are partly accessible, with compacted gravel paths leading to the main ruins and viewing areas. The tower and underground passage are reached via steep steps and are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. However, interpretive panels and a virtual tour are available for visitors unable to access these sections.
Facilities include toilets, a small gift shop and a picnic area. There is no café on site, but Ashby’s high street cafés and pubs are just a short walk away. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the grounds.
Best times to visit Ashby Castle and how long to stay
Most visitors spend around one to two hours exploring Ashby Castle, though history enthusiasts may wish to linger longer, especially if attending a guided tour or event. The tower climb offers particularly good photo opportunities on clear days, while the underground passage connecting the tower and kitchen is a highlight for children.
Spring and summer are the best times to visit, when the lawns are green and the surrounding trees frame the ruins beautifully. Autumn visits also offer striking colours and smaller crowds. Weekday mornings tend to be the quietest times for peaceful exploration.
What else to see near Ashby Castle
- Calke Abbey – an atmospheric National Trust house and gardens just 20 minutes away.
- Moira Furnace Museum – a preserved 19th-century ironworks with canal walks.
- Conkers Discovery Centre – family-friendly woodland activities and trails nearby.
- National Forest – walking and cycling routes linking heritage sites across Leicestershire.
Frequently asked questions about Ashby Castle
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to book tickets in advance? | No, but booking online through English Heritage can speed up entry, especially during school holidays. |
| Is Ashby Castle suitable for children? | Yes. Kids love exploring the ruins and tunnels, and there are family-friendly information boards throughout the site. |
| Are dogs allowed? | Dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds but not in roofed or enclosed areas. |
| Is there a café? | No café on site, but there are several within five minutes’ walk in the town centre. |
| Can I climb the tower? | Yes. The tower climb is one of the highlights, offering excellent views over Ashby and the surrounding countryside. |
| Is parking free? | No. Public parking nearby costs up to £2.60 for the day |
Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. Book through them, and I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
More East Midlands travel
Other East Midlands travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- 9 reasons to visit Nottingham.
- The extraordinary sacrifices of the Eyam plague village.
- Planning a visit to the Cromford Mills in Derbyshire.
- Twycross Zoo visitor guide.
- The 6 best things to do in Loughborough.
