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King John's Castle

Castle

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Riverside, Valley

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching

Year round

Olliebailie / CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

King John's Castle, also called Odiham Castle, is a ruin standing by the Basingstoke Canal in the countryside near Odiham in Hampshire. It was built for King John in the early 1200s, one of only a handful of castles he raised, and is unusual for its eight-sided keep, part of which still stands among...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 7 overnight

The Coach House Cafe and Coffee Shop

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is King John's Castle?
Hampshire contains this old fortress right beside the Basingstoke Canal. Walkers often spot the crumbling flint walls while exploring the local towpaths.

What type of place is King John's Castle?
King John's Castle is a ruined medieval fortress in Hampshire.

When is the best time to visit King John's Castle?
Clear autumn mornings offer the most atmospheric light for exploring the brick-lined arrow slits. Crisper weather also ensures you escape any heavy summer crowds along the canal side.

What can you do at King John's Castle?
Stepping inside the unique octagonal tower allows everyone to trace the ancient timber joists where royalty once walked. Photography enthusiasts frequently capture the dramatic reflections of the stone walls in the glassy water.

How long should I spend at King John's Castle?
Allocating around forty-five minutes provides plenty of time to enjoy the site and scan the area for local waterfowl. Bringing a camera helps you make the most of your brief stop before continuing along the towpath.

Where do I park at King John's Castle?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist near the site, providing three day and seven overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near King John's Castle?
The Coach House Cafe and Coffee Shop offers a single place to grab a bite to eat nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near King John's Castle?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near King John's Castle, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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