The Most Captivating Castles in Connecticut

Connecticut's castles are a sight to behold.

In 2018, Connecticut weighs-in as the 6th richest state in the country. From Greenwich traveling East to Darien, you'll find some of the largest and most opulent homes in New England.

Castles are a totally different animal, combining the words "opulent," "extravagant" and "palatial," except when it comes to Hearthstone Castle, which is owned by the city of Danbury.

Built in 1897, Hearthstone Castle was originally named Sanford Castle after its owner, famous photographer, E. Starr Sanford. In its heyday, this three-story castle boasted seventeen rooms, nine bedrooms, and a billiards room. In 1987, the City of Danbury purchased the castle and since then Hearthstone has gradually deteriorated. There has been talk about a possible partial preservation.

Gillette Castle - East Haddam

Built between 1914 and 1919 for actor/playwright, William Gillette, this 24 room 14,000 square foot home was built by 20 workers and took five years to complete with Gillette supervising every facet of the project. The most fascinating aspect of the castle was Gillette's installation of a 3-mile long steam engine railroad complete with trestles, bridges, and a tunnel so his guests could ride around the property.

Round Hill Manor - Greenwich

Round Hill Manor is one of Greenwich's most magnificent estates that sits on 40 acres with panoramic views of Long Island Sound. With nine bedrooms and eight full baths and approximately 17,600 square feet, it's not difficult to imagine how a family of four would need a personal GPS to find their way around this sumptuous property.

Castle Woodstock - Woodstock, CT

Located in Woodstock, CT, this extravagant over the top castle looks like it belongs smack dab in the Magic Kingdom. With plenty of wiggle room for six, this 18,777 square foot crashpad rests on 75 wooded acres and features its own private lake. Steel tycoon, Christopher Mark built this lavish home which was completed in 2009. Unfortunately, soon after the home was finished, his marriage went down the tubes in a nasty contentious divorce. Child and animal abuse also factored into this tangled web of family problems.

Castle Craig - Meriden, CT

Castle Craig is not really a full blown castle but is a tower that rises 32 feet. Dedicated in October of 1900 and graciously given to the people of Meriden by industrialist, Walter Hubbard, the tower sits inside the 1,800-acre Hubbard Park. If you choose to climb the 32' to the top of Castle Craig on a clear day you'll be rewarded with a magnificent view of Long Island Sound and the Southern Massachusetts Berkshires.

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