When you think about visiting medieval castles, Texas might not be the first place to come to mind. However, there are a handful of amazing castles in Central Texas that wow with a European grandeur. Some you can rent and live like royalty for a night or two, some allow daytime tours, and some you’ll just need to peek at from afar and use your imagination about what happens inside the massive walls.
Lords and ladies, here’s a round-up of beautiful castles near Austin:
Photo from the Newman’s Castle Facebook page
Newman’s Castle
1041 Old Hwy 36, Bellville
Newman’s Castle is a custom creation in the countryside just outside of Bellville, Texas, approximately two hours from Austin. The castle boasts old world charm and features a moat, a working 3,000 lb. drawbridge with an accompanying portcullis, a chapel, five round corner turrets, a courtyard, and a central keep with a dramatic view of the surrounding lands. The owners of the castle also own and operate Newman’s Bakery that will provide lunches for your group during a day tour. Newman’s offers tours six days a week with reservation required. You can call 979-865-9804 to check availability and pricing, and to reserve your date. Check here for more info about castle tours and special events.
Photo from the Falkenstein Castle Facebook page
Castle Falkenstein
7400 Park Rd 4s, Burnet
For the grandest getaway around, you can book this massive 14,000 square-foot Bavarian-style castle in Burnet, TX where your little princess or prince can live out fairy tale dreams. This lavish lodging at Castle Falkenstein comes with six bedrooms, a game room, majestic views, a gazebo, a koi pond with a waterfall, and features an interior decorated with beautiful artwork and other artifacts. Castle Falkenstein isn’t currently open for public tours or drive-ups, but you can check out rental information and read about the history of the castle.
Nottingham Castle at Sherwood Forest, photo by Heidi Okla for Do512 Family
Nottingham Castle at Sherwood Forest
Sherwood Ln, Paige
You can be king of the castle in the Sherwood Forest! Located in McDade, Texas, approximately 35 miles east of Austin, this castle is located on the site of the annual Sherwood Forest Faire — which is currently running through April 21, 2024. The forest abounds with jousting, swordplay, theatre, archery, juggling, magic, comedy, and more. You can check out the castle during the Faire, but if you wish to visit at other times during the year, you can book a stay in the Great Hall section of the castle which boasts five bedrooms for overnight accommodations, or gather with friends to rent out the whole castle for your own little kingdom. Click here for more info about Nottingham Castle accommodations.
Elisabet Ney Museum, photo by Heidi Okla
Elisabet Ney Museum
304 E 44th St.
You can find the Elisabet Ney Museum located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Austin. It is the former studio of 19th century sculptor Elisabet Ney, and is dedicated to showcasing her life and works. Formosa, as Ney called the studio, was the first art studio ever built in Texas — completed in 1893 and expanded in 1902. Inside you’ll find a permanent collection of her portrait busts and personal memorabilia on display. The museum is managed by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department and is free and open to public visitors. Read about hours and tours.
Photo from the Pemberton Heights Neighborhood Assoc. website
Pemberton Castle
1415 Wooldridge Drive
The Pemberton Castle, also known as the Fisher-Gideon House, is located in Austin’s Pemberton Heights neighborhood. It’s not open for tours or events but is a castle you can drive by to view. It originated as a water tower and was then converted into a Gothic Revival castle in the 1920s. From the historic landmark plaque at the property: “The house is an asymmetrical gothic revival style structure with a rough stone face and prominent castellated parapets.”
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Castles in Texas you can rent for overnight stays:
