1. Castle Lachlan, Argyll and Bute
Nestled on the banks of Loch Fyne, this wild and romantic ruin has become part of the natural landscape and adds a haunting beauty to the shoreline. The fortress was erected in the 15th century, while a 13th century church stands nearby.
2. Corfe Castle, Dorset
Corfe Castle was commissioned by William the Conquerer in the 11th century, and has lorded over the Purbeck Hills ever since. Explore the area to see the remnants of stunning Norman stonework, and look out over the gorgeous Dorset landscape.
3. Raglan Castle, Monmouthshire
Constructed in the 1430s, Raglan Castle in Wales is incredibly well-preserved for having defended itself against Parliamentary forces for 3 weeks in 1646, and remains undeniably striking.
4. Roche Rock, Cornwall
If you don't mind the climb, the ascent to the top of Roche Rock will reward you with a jaw-dropping view of the village below, not to mention a magical experience with the unique ruin at the top. The origin of the structure is unknown, but there are plenty of interesting Cornish legends to draw from, so take your pick.
5. St Michaels, Somerset
The ruins of this 15th century church look out over the plains of Burrow Mump in Somerset. The area has a rich history; a number of Roman and medieval artifacts has been recovered from the site.
6. St Dunstan-in-the-East, London
Tucked away in East London, this timeless gem offers a breathtaking mixture of old and new with its overgrown gothic architecture and stunning views of the London skyline.
7. Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire
This World Heritage Site is more than just ruins – the remains of the Cistercian abbey are surrounded by a stunning water garden and the lush grounds of a medieval deer park.
8. Old Wardour Castle, Wiltshire
This 14th century fortress is a haunting shell of its former self after severe damages during the Civil War. Still, the structure is just as fascinating in its crumbling state, with a range of ruined features to explore, and a jaw dropping view from what remains of the upper floors.
9. Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire
These picturesque Elizabethan ruins are joined by a lush green garden, offering a unique atmosphere somewhere between fairy tale and horror movie.
10. Netley Abbey, Hampshire
The mysterious 13th century abbey has crumbled beautifully into timelessly striking ruins. Legend has it that a hidden stream runs beneath the abbey, and is guarded by the ghost of an old Cistercian monk.
11. Botallack Mine, Cornwall
These ruined mining structures offer an unmissable view of the Cornish coast. The area is known for its coastal walks and is rich in Cornish history.
12. Odiham Castle, Hampshire
This curious structure dates back to the early 13th century, and stood in its full glory for several hundred years century before it fell out of fashion and became a moderately used hunting lodge, and was declared a ruin in the 1600s.
13. Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire
This enduring ruin is the best preserved medieval abbey in Wales, and has crumbled gloriously into Welsh countryside, creating a hauntingly romantic place to explore.
14. Peveril Castle, Derbyshire
Lording over the village of Castleton in Derbyshire, Peveril Castle is a formidable and mysterious ruin dating back to the 12th century. One of England's earliest Norman fortresses, the imposing tower was once the heart of a medieval hunting forest.
15. Haughmond Abbey, Shropshire
The remains of this Augustinian abbey from the 12th century dominate the countryside of Upton Magna village, and offer glimpses of the striking architecture of centuries past.
16. Llanthony Priory, Monmouthsire
The stunning ruin of this 13th century Augustinian priory has withstood many attacks and captures throughout its history, but remains strikingly beautiful, even in its decay.
17. Kilchurn Castle, Argyll and Bute
This 15th century stronghold overlooks the waters of Loch Awe and remains a dramatic and awe-inspiring aspect of the Argyll landscape.
18. Tyneham Village, Dorset
This tiny village in Dorset dates back to the 16th century, but was evacuated and seized by the government during World War II and has since fallen into abandon.
19. Goodrich Castle, Herefordshire
The haunting and beautiful remains of Goodrich Castle have become part of the landscape overlooking the River Wye. Nature has creeped over the ruins, leaving a stunning and mysterious portrait of the region's history.
These selections were inspired by the upcoming Wild Ruins by David Hamilton from Wild Things Publishing, £16.99.