You don’t need to cross the Atlantic to see a fairytale tower. If you are searching for a castle near new york, there are several real options within a day trip of Manhattan, from ruined island fortresses to grand mansions that look straight out of a novel. Distances and access change, so check opening days and travel options before you go.
Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island
This ruin sits on a small island in the Hudson River, about an hour and a half from the city. It was built in the early twentieth century by a man who stored military surplus there. Today it is a picturesque, partly collapsed building, and visits are generally via organised tours by boat or kayak. You can also see it from the shore and from Metro-North trains running along the river.
Lyndhurst in Tarrytown
Lyndhurst is a Gothic Revival mansion on the Hudson, with pointed arches, towers and a large estate. It is easy to reach from the city by train to Tarrytown, followed by a short taxi or walk. Guided tours show the interiors, and the gardens are a pleasant stroll.
Other grand estates
- Kykuit, the Rockefeller family estate in Pocantico Hills, with terraces, gardens and art
- Sunnyside, the home of writer Washington Irving, near Lyndhurst
- Boldt Castle, in the Thousand Islands region, much farther north but famous for its story
- Castle-style buildings at some West Point and Hudson Valley sites
If you prefer true European-style castles, you may need to go farther afield or take a flight.
Getting there
Metro-North from Grand Central runs up the Hudson, and several stops work for the sites above. Driving gives you flexibility, but traffic can be heavy on weekends. For island visits, book a guided tour in advance, as boat schedules are limited and weather dependent.
When to go
Spring and autumn are best, with mild weather and colourful leaves in October. Summer can be hot, and winter may close certain sites. Many estates have seasonal hours or hold special evening events, so check ahead.
Combine it with other plans
A castle day pairs well with a stop for lunch in a Hudson river town, a walk along the water or a visit to a nearby museum. If you are building a longer trip, take a look at our post on verrückte Dinge in New York for more offbeat ideas within the city itself.
Money and tips
Entrance fees vary. Bring a card, comfortable shoes and a light jacket, since river breezes are cool. Tipping rules for tours are covered in our post on how much to tip in the US.
In short
For a short escape, Lyndhurst is the easiest castle-like visit, while Bannerman has the most dramatic setting. Plan ahead, confirm the schedule and bring your camera. Find more guides on invisionfree.com. For details on the ruin see Bannerman’s Castle on Wikipedia.
