Loveland Castle (Chateau Laroche)
A medieval-style castle hand-built over 50 years by one man, featuring armor collections and scenic riverside gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Loveland Castle (Chateau Laroche)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval-style castle hand-built over 50 years by one man, featuring armor collections and scenic riverside gardens.
"An affordable and fascinating glimpse into history, built stone by stone by a dedicated visionary."
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Tickets are a steal at $5 per person, making it a budget-friendly adventure for everyone.
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
Most of the castle is on upper floors; wear comfortable shoes and be aware of limited accessibility.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Castle Itself
Main structure
A medieval-style fortress hand-built over 50 years by one man, Harry Andrews. Explore its towers and rooms.
Knightly Armaments
Museum displays
Marvel at an impressive collection of armor, swords, and daggers, showcasing medieval weaponry.
Riverside Gardens
Grounds
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the gardens overlooking the Little Miami River, perfect for a picnic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Affordable Adventure Awaits
Timing is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Tickets are a steal at $5 per person, making it a budget-friendly adventure for everyone.
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
Most of the castle is on upper floors; wear comfortable shoes and be aware of limited accessibility.
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to document the unique architecture and historical artifacts.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Enjoy the riverside picnic areas for a scenic lunch break after exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Tickets are a steal at $5 per person, making it a budget-friendly adventure for everyone.
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
Most of the castle is on upper floors; wear comfortable shoes and be aware of limited accessibility.
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to document the unique architecture and historical artifacts.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Enjoy the riverside picnic areas for a scenic lunch break after exploring.
📚 Learn the Story
Watch the informative videos about Harry Andrews to truly appreciate the castle's creation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Loveland Castle for its affordability, unique history, and the dedication of its volunteers. Many find it a fascinating glimpse into the past, built by one man's incredible vision. While generally well-maintained, some note the accessibility challenges due to stairs and the lack of indoor plumbing for events.
"A fun, interesting and affordable experience for all. We took our 6yo on a Friday and it was great! Super friendly staff to greet you, and answer any questions. Going in and exploring was very cool. You can cover most everything in around an hour."
Mike Girardot
"This place is awesome! Love the fact that they play videos of the man who built it! You really get to know him. The volunteers are absolutely amazing and so knowledgeable! Really cool place to visit!"
Ashley Burt
"Great tour of one of our regions historic places. Informative videos begin the self-guided tour and then comes the opportunity to walk the castle and surrounding grounds. Amazing how one could build such a place, taking 50+ years to accomplish. To see the entire castle, you will need to walk just a few steps up spiral staircases. A small souvenir store is also available. General administration $5/person. Ample parking."
Steve Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loveland Castle (Chateau Laroche) is located at 12025 Shore Dr, Loveland, OH. It's about a 20-30 minute drive northeast of Cincinnati, making it an easy day trip. Many visitors arrive by car, and there is ample parking available on-site.
Public transport options to Loveland Castle are limited. It's best accessed by car. If relying on ride-sharing services, ensure they can reach the specific address. +1
From Cincinnati, take I-71 North to exit 19 for Pfeiffer Road. Turn right onto Pfeiffer Road, then left onto Montgomery Road. Continue onto Loveland Madeira Road, which becomes Broadway Street. Turn right onto Shore Drive, and the castle will be on your left.
Yes, the drive along the Little Miami River is quite scenic, especially during the fall. Many visitors enjoy the route as part of their adventure.
The address for Loveland Castle (Chateau Laroche) is 12025 Shore Dr, Loveland, OH 45140. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Loveland Castle is very affordable, typically costing $5 per person. Children under a certain age may have different pricing.
Loveland Castle is generally open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM from April through October. From November through March, it may be open only on weekends. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission. Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival. However, for special events like wine tastings or private functions, booking in advance is recommended.
While the standard admission is already very low, keep an eye out for potential group rates or special event pricing. The $5 entry fee is considered a great value by most visitors.
Yes, Loveland Castle is a unique venue for events, including weddings. However, be aware of practicalities like limited indoor plumbing. Inquire directly with the castle for rental information and availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the medieval-style castle, admire the collection of armor and swords, wander through the riverside gardens, and learn about its fascinating history through informative videos and displays. +1
Loveland Castle has many stairs and is spread across multiple levels, including spiral staircases. It may not be ideal for those with significant mobility challenges, as some areas might be inaccessible.
Most visitors can explore the castle and its grounds in about an hour. The self-guided tour, including watching the introductory videos, is efficient yet thorough.
The tour is primarily self-guided, with informative videos to start. Volunteers are often on-site to answer questions and share insights about the castle's history.
Photography is generally allowed inside and outside the castle, allowing you to capture its unique charm and historical artifacts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Loveland Castle does not have an on-site restaurant. However, there are picnic areas available, and the town of Loveland offers various dining options nearby.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy picnics in the designated riverside areas, which are quite scenic.
The town of Loveland, just a short drive away, offers a range of eateries from casual cafes to local restaurants.
Occasionally, Loveland Castle hosts special events like wine tastings, which may include light refreshments. Check their event calendar for details.
Yes, there is a small souvenir store where you can purchase mementos of your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the castle, especially with the river in the background, offers stunning photo opportunities. The gardens and interior displays of armor also make for great shots.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the castle, allowing you to capture the historical artifacts and unique architecture.
While generally allowed, it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, casting a warm glow on the castle. Weekday mornings can offer fewer people for interior shots.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the castle management directly before flying a drone on the property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the castle has stairs, many families find it manageable for younger children, turning the exploration into a mini-adventure. The historical aspect, combined with the visual appeal of a real castle, makes it an educational and exciting experience for children of various ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Combine your visit with a packed lunch to enjoy in the scenic riverside picnic areas, further reducing costs. This makes it an ideal stop for backpackers, road-trippers, or anyone looking for an enriching experience on a tight budget.
💑 Couples
Consider visiting during one of their special wine tasting events for a more intimate and sophisticated experience. The combination of history, beautiful scenery, and unique activities makes it a perfect spot for couples looking for something different.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Harry Andrews
+1Andrews' dream was to create a place that embodied the spirit of knighthood and the grandeur of medieval castles. The castle's design reflects this aspiration, featuring towers, battlements, and an interior filled with historical artifacts. His commitment to this monumental task is evident in every stone and detail, making Chateau Laroche a truly unique landmark.
Today, the castle is maintained by the Knights of the Golden Trail, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Harry Andrews' legacy. They continue his work, ensuring that the castle remains a place of historical interest and a source of inspiration for visitors.
Exploring the Castle's Interior
The castle's interior features creaky wooden floors and a charmingly aged aesthetic, adding to its authentic atmosphere. While the main structure is impressive, be prepared for multiple levels and spiral staircases, which are part of the castle's original design. Some areas, like the third floor or roof, may occasionally be closed for renovation, so it's worth checking if specific sections are accessible during your visit.
Informative videos about Harry Andrews and the castle's construction play at the beginning of the tour, providing valuable context and personal stories that enrich the visitor experience. These short films help you understand the immense effort and passion that went into creating this remarkable structure.
The Enchanting Riverside Setting
The riverside picnic areas are a popular feature, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal with a view. It's an ideal spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area after exploring the castle. The scenic route to the castle itself is also a highlight for many visitors, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
This tranquil setting makes Loveland Castle not just a historical site but also a charming destination for a leisurely day out. The combination of the unique architecture and the natural landscape creates a memorable and picturesque experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit