Farnham Castle Keep — Attraction in Waverley

We got married at Farnham castle this month and it was without question the best day imaginable. To start with the positives (of which there are many)... From the moment we arrived, our dedicated wedding planner had everything under control. Patrick was an absolute professional from the first to the last minute of our day and the event ran like clockwork as a result (an opinion shared by ourselves and family). The venue flows better than any wedding venue we (and many of our friends/family) have been to. The food served during the day (canapes, wedding breakfast and BBQ) is beyond exceptional; the main comment from the guests surrounded the quality of Farnham Castle's food. Five stars, genuinely. The venue including the gardens, the lantern hall, the great hall and the bedrooms (obviously we had the honeymoon suite which was incredible) is perfect in every way. This venue is close to perfection, but it has flaws that are easy to address if willing (or maybe if you ask). The catering company that run the venue are quite simply greedy, to the point where you must pay for everything and anything. Whilst this is expected from a wedding venue, there are cases where such greed is harming their business. One example: if you want the bar to stay open beyond 11pm, they want £500. This specifically relates to the hotel bar for all 32 rooms that the wedding party have booked (full). Despite being closed, we filled this bar until 1:30am drinking warm champagne (wedding gifts) and could have happily continued with nightcaps contributing to a bar revenue income of well beyond the fee. A £500 charge to employ one barman for a couple of ours is quite simply a disgrace and beyond greedy. Despite this, the only other negative we found and have heard from several guests is that the breakfast, despite being a warm roll (plus continental), is extremely poor with ingredients running out, cold stale brioche buns and stingy meat portions inside the sausage/bacon rolls. The caterers should strongly consider warming/toasting the brioche buns served with both breakfast but also the evening BBQ as this was the only fault identified from the daytime food. I regret to add negatives but these won't take away from what will always be the best day...

Farnham Castle was built around 1138 by Henri de Blois, Bishop of Winchester, grandson of William the Conqueror.

For hundreds of years, it served as an administrative centre, fortress and accommodation, providing a convenient stopping place between London and Winchester.

After 1660, the Palace became the Bishop’s principal residence. Many English monarchs, from King John to Queen Victoria have visited or stayed at Farnham Castle.

Farnham castle is very popular for private events and weddings.

Entry is free and open Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm or dusk if earlier.

At the weekends from 10 am till 4 pm.

The castle keep is closed from 24th December to 31st January.

There are toilet facilities on the site.

We have parked on Farnham castle carpark. It is not very big and free of charge.The grounds are well kept.

The stairs to the top can be a little challenging, but doable. :)

The views from the top are breath taking.

Allow yourself about 30-45 min for this visit as it is not very big, but worth...

Farnham Castle Keep, located in Farnham, Surrey, is a historic site perched atop a hill overlooking the town. Dating back to the 12th century, this impressive medieval fortress was built by Bishop Henry of Blois and has played a significant role in English history. The Keep is part of a larger castle complex that served as a residence for the Bishops of Winchester for over 800 years.

The Keep features sturdy stone walls, narrow staircases, and battlements that offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the inner and outer baileys, and learn about the castle's storied past through informative displays and guided tours. The site is beautifully maintained, with lush grounds that are perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

Farnham Castle Keep is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a picturesque and educational outing. Its rich heritage and striking architecture make it a standout landmark...