A CASTLE just a few hours from the UK is rarely known by holidaymakers – despite once being home to a British princess.
Książ Castle in Poland attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year thanks to its long history, sprawling garden and underground tunnels.
The Polish castle has over 700 years of history beginning back in the 13th century when it was built by Duke Bolko I the Strict.
In the centuries that followed, the castle underwent several modifications and reconstructions.
It also had several royal and noble families call the castle their home over the years, including British aristocrat Mary Theresa Olivia Cornwallis-West, who is better known as Daisy von Pless.
Daisy von Pless married Hans Heinrich XV of the Hochberg dynasty in 1891.
Hans Heinrich XV also happened to be the Prince of Pless, making Daisy a princess.
The somewhat forgotten princess helped to transform the region with social reforms like free pasteurised milk stations for children as well as special needs schools for younger children.
Holidaymakers can learn more about Daisy von Pless and her legacy at the castle.
Located in northern Wałbrzych, Książ Castle is the third-largest castle in Poland, with more than 400 rooms.
While two floors aren’t open to visitors, there are plenty of other areas to discover, including the impressive two-storey Maximilian Hall with its black marble fireplace, decorative ceiling, and three small balconies.
One of the castle’s main features is its underground tunnels.
Three castles to visit in the UK
The UK is home to some amazing castles – here are some of the best:
Bamburgh Castle
This medieval fortress is built overlooking the stunning Northumberland coast, offering a wonderfully picturesque place to explore some of England’s history.
The castle itself is incredibly well preserved and dates all the way back to the 11th century.
Kenilworth Castle
Brits can find out about sieges and royal scandals at Kenilworth Castle, one of the most famous forts in the country.
The medieval castle has had a fascinating history and was even transformed into an Elizabethan palace.
Today its keep, its Tudor towers and Elizabethan garden are among the sights people can explore.
Dover Castle
This fort rises high above the famous white cliffs, providing another stunning sight for visitors.
Another 11th Century build, constructed soon after 1066, it has been the site of some historically important moments, including the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Allied troops from the beach of Dunkirk.
Among its top features are its Great Tower, with a recreated medieval interior, which people can climb to the top of and enjoy the surrounding views.
The underground tunnels were built during World War Two when the castle was under Nazi occupation.
Named Project Riese, it is still not known why the tunnels were built and what they were used for during the war.
Visitors to the castle can explore a small part of the underground tunnels during their visit.
Other features at the Polish castle include Palm House, which is located just a short drive from the castle.
Built for Princess Daisy in the early 1900s, the botanical garden is home to over 250 different species of plans from around the world.
The Polish castle has been praised by visitors on TripAdvisor with a 4/5 star rating from more than 1,000 reviews on the platform.
One person wrote: “Such a good place to visit, not many people in the area, which meant no rushing or queues. I really liked the tour in the tunnels under the castle.”
Another person added: “Ksiaz is a beautiful castle with an interesting history and underground tunnel tour.”
Entry tickets into the castle cost £17 for a full-paying adult.
Książ Castle is a one-hour drive from Wroclaw where direct flights operate to and from the UK.
Ryanair operates a direct service from London to Wroclaw, with flights from £12.99.
Everything you need to know about visiting Poland
- Brits must have at least three months left on their passport from the day they plan to leave the country.
- Tourists do not need a visa if visiting for up to 90 days in an 180-day period.
- Passports must be stamped on entry and exit.
- Travellers may be asked to show hotel booking confirmation and that they have enough money for their stay at the border.
- Poland is one hour ahead of the UK.
- The country uses the Polish Zloty, with £10 currently worth around 52 Zloty.
- Flights from the UK to Poland take between 2 to 4 hours depending on the destination.
Meanwhile, a new £16million medieval-themed hotel is set to open at a UK castle.
These are some of the most popular castle stays that can be booked in the UK.