Highlight • Historical Site
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Odiham Castle Ruins, often known as King John's Castle, is a historic ruined fortress nestled near the village of Odiham in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Situated at an elevation of 81 metres, this significant historical site lies picturesquely along the banks of the Basingstoke Canal and in a bend of the River Whitewater. It's one of only three castles built by King John during his reign, strategically located roughly halfway between his royal residences at Windsor and Winchester.
Visitors are consistently…
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May 1, 2020
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May 16, 2020
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June 15, 2021
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Odiham Castle Ruins
4.5
(15)
75
hikers
9.09km
02:21
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(7)
74
hikers
8.48km
02:10
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
42
hikers
5.26km
01:22
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
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Thursday 12 March
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6°C
81 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 38.0 km/h
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The paths around Odiham Castle Ruins are generally flat and well-maintained, particularly along the Basingstoke Canal towpath. You'll mostly encounter gravel or compacted earth surfaces, making for easy walking. Comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the site and surrounding paths.
Absolutely! The most prominent feature is the unique octagonal keep, a rare design for castles of its period. You can still see the flint cores of its walls. Also, look for the remnants of the inner round moat and outer square moat, which survive as a waterlogged ditch, and the outlying earthworks that once protected the castle. Information boards on site provide historical context.
Parking is typically available in nearby North Warnborough or Odiham village. From these locations, you can enjoy a pleasant walk along the Basingstoke Canal towpath to reach the castle. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so arriving earlier in the day is often advisable.
While there isn't a direct public transport stop right at the ruins, you can reach the nearby villages of Odiham or North Warnborough by bus. From there, it's a scenic walk along the Basingstoke Canal towpath to the castle. Check local bus schedules for routes serving these villages.
Yes, it's a very family-friendly location. The flat paths along the canal are easy for little legs, and the ruins themselves offer an engaging historical experience. Kids often enjoy exploring the castle remnants and imagining its past. The open space is also great for a picnic.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Odiham Castle Ruins and on the surrounding canal towpaths. It's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around other visitors and wildlife, and remember to clean up after them.
While there are no facilities directly at the ruins, you'll find several cafes and traditional pubs in the nearby villages of Odiham and North Warnborough. These are perfect for a refreshment stop or a meal before or after your visit to the castle.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour exploring the castle ruins themselves, reading the information boards, and taking in the surroundings. If you include the walk from nearby parking or villages along the canal, a visit can easily extend to 1.5 to 2 hours or more, depending on the length of your chosen route.
Yes, the castle ruins are open year-round, including winter. In winter, you can expect a quieter, more tranquil experience, often with crisp air and potentially frosty or muddy paths. Dress warmly, wear waterproof footwear, and be aware that daylight hours are shorter. The stark beauty of the ruins against a winter sky can be quite atmospheric.
Yes, there are several popular circular walking routes that incorporate Odiham Castle Ruins, often utilizing sections of the Basingstoke Canal towpath and local footpaths. These routes vary in length and can be found on local walking guides or outdoor navigation apps, offering a great way to experience the castle as part of a longer scenic walk.
The area around Odiham Castle Ruins, particularly along the Basingstoke Canal and River Whitewater, is rich in wildlife. You might spot various bird species, including ducks, swans, and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for small mammals like voles and perhaps even deer in the surrounding fields. The tranquil setting makes it a good spot for nature observation.