Book Pierreford Castle Tickets | Free Guided Tours Available

Pierrefonds Castle—from ruins to reinvention

“Merlin will one day be the greatest wizard that the world will ever know, but for now, he is just a young man, geeky and awkward.”

If you are a fan of the BBC series Merlin, we know the Pierrefonds Castle is a bucket list experience! Everything you’d expect in a magical kingdom can be found here—from battlements and dungeons to towers and turrets.

Built in the 14th century, destroyed in the 17th century, and restored in the 19th century, the castle's every space and object transports you back to an important period in French history.

Peruse this guide—we have covered important timelines, must-see spaces within the castle, the best time to visit, and some handy tips to better your visit.

Things to know before booking your Pierrefond Castle tickets

Since the castle is a popular film shoot location, it’s recommended that you book your tickets online and well in advance. This way, you are sure that the castle is not closed off for any holidays or filming.
Visitors under 18, EU citizens under 26, disabled visitors and their carers, and job seekers with valid proof can enjoy free entry. Be sure to bring the necessary documentation to benefit from this.
If you are eligible for free admission, an online reservation is not necessary. You can simply present your valid documentation at the counter, on the day of your visit.

Why visit Pierrefonds Castle?

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Impressive medieval architecture

Since its restoration in 1857, the castle has been an admirable blend of medieval architecture and romantic ruin. With its towering walls and turrets, the in ruins castle offers you a fairy-tale castle experience, perfect for exploring or capturing stunning photographs.

Surrounded by scenic views

Sitting at the edge of the expansive Forest of Compiègne, overlooking the Oise Valley, the scenic views from the castle are infinite. Once you’re done visiting the castle, you can step out for a stroll/picnic in the forest.

Rich historical significance

Built in the 14th century, destroyed in the 17th, and restored in the 19th, Pierrefonds Castle offers you the chance to explore centuries of history and the architectural vision of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc.

Fun day trip from Paris

Located just over an hour from Paris, Pierrefonds Castle makes for a great day trip visit. Either board a train to Compiegne and then a taxi to the castle or simply rent a car and enjoy the drive, with some popular stops en route including Domaine de Courances and Parc Pierre.

Famous filming location

In addition to Merlin (of which you already know), the Peirrefonds Castle is a popular backdrop for cinematic adventures and medieval dramas, such as The Man in the Iron Mask, Scaramouche, and Le Bossu amongst others.

Pierrefonds Castle Highlights

The Courtyard of Honor

The Courtyard of Honor is the grand entrance to Pierrefonds Castle. This 700 m2 cobblestone courtyard is surrounded by key structures, including the keep, chapel, and lord’s residences. At its center, you are met by a charming fountain, creating a welcoming space that showcases the architectural beauty and grandeur of this medieval fortress.

The Chapel

The castle’s chapel is an exquisite example of Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate stained glass windows and detailed stone carvings. It served as a place of worship for the castle's inhabitants then and offers you a peaceful space to admire its craftsmanship and historical significance as part of the castle’s religious life.

The Bridges

The castle features two kinds of bridges–drawbridges and standing bridges (pedestrian and sleeping). These functional and defensive elements add a layer of medieval engineering to the castle’s layout, offering you an insight into the strategic design that helped protect the castle in times of conflict.

The Park

Surrounding the castle, the 5-hectare park offers you a tranquil space to explore the lush greenery and scenic views of the castle. With its pathways and shaded spots, it’s an ideal setting for leisurely walks, allowing you to appreciate both the natural landscape and the majestic silhouette of Pierrefonds Castle.

The Ball of Recumbents

The Ball of Recumbents is a striking display of medieval effigies and sculptures depicting figures in repose. These stone carvings are lifelike and evoke the solemn dignity of those memorialized, offering a unique glimpse into medieval funerary art and the craftsmanship of the period.

The Winged Lion

The Winged Lion is a magnificent sculpture found at the top of the staircase, within the castle, symbolizing power and protection. With its imposing form and mythological significance, the lion adds a touch of fantasy and grandeur to the castle’s artistic elements, captivating you with its symbolic meaning and impressive craftsmanship.

Plan your visit to Pierrefond Castle

Sept 5–Apr 30 from 10am–5:30pm
May 2–Sept 4 from 9:30am–6pm
Last access to the monument is one hour before closing time.
The park closes 45 minutes before the monument closes.
Closed on: January 1, May 1, and December 25.

Address: Rue Viollet le Duc, 60350 Pierrefonds, France
Find on Maps
By car: Free parking on Rue Sabatier, 10 minutes from the castle.
By bike: 10 hoops at the top and bottom of the park are provided for bicycle parking.
There are no direct trains/buses from Paris. If you don’t have a car, you can either rent one in Paris or book a taxi service.

Audio guides
Guided tours
Family activities

Admission to the monument is free for disabled visitors and their companions, upon presentation of valid proof.
Depending on their disability, visitors can request dedicated or adapted services to better their visit. Services can include adapted tours and devices to understand and learn about the monument.
Two dedicated parking spaces.

Creperie "Les Remparts in Pierrefonds"

This charming creperie offers a cozy atmosphere with a delightful selection of sweet and savory crêpes.

*Must-try: the classic ham and cheese galette, a perfect blend of flavors.*

*Distance from the castle: 5-minute walk*

Le Chalet du Lac

Overlooking the lake, Le Chalet du Lac serves traditional French cuisine with stunning views.

*Must-try: the tender duck confit, paired beautifully with locally sourced vegetables and a rich sauce.*

*Distance from the castle: 10-minute walk*

Dogs are not allowed in the castle; they must be kept on a leash in the park.
Strollers are allowed in the park; not allowed in the castle.
Stroller parking is in the main courtyard.
Photography is allowed in the castle without flash.
Cane seats are available at the beginning of the visit.

It is cheaper to rent a car/drive to the castle instead of spending on multiple public transport to get there.
If you reach the castle by bus from Crépy-en-Valois (a small town, 45 minutes bus ride), wrap up your visit early. The last bus to Crépy-en-Valois leaves at 5pm.
Get your free copy of the monument’s visiting brochure at the reception desk. It is available in French, English, German, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Russian.
Unless you speak French, you are on your own inside the castle. So make the most of the guide map you’re handed out at the entrance.
At no additional cost, guided tours of the monument are available every day at 10:45am, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm. The tour duration is about an hour and doesn’t require an advanced reservation; register at the reception.
Audio guides (French, English, German, and Dutch) are available on-site for an additional fee of €3.
If you love hiking, the surrounding Compiègne Forest provides tonnes of hiking and biking trails, of varying difficulty levels. Check out AllTrails for information.
During school breaks, visits and workshops are organised for children (4–12 years) to discover the castle.

International City of the French Language

A cultural center in Villers-Cotterêts, this site celebrates the French language’s history and global influence, offering interactive exhibits and events that explore its rich linguistic heritage.

*Distance from the castle: 13km*

Castle of Coucy

A medieval fortress built in the 13th century, the Castle of Coucy is known for its massive towers and walls, offering a fascinating glimpse into France's feudal past and military architecture.

*Distance from the castle: 31km*

Towers of Reims Cathedral

The iconic towers of Reims Cathedral rise majestically above the city. They offer spectacular views and a chance to explore the Gothic architecture of this historic site, where French kings were crowned.

*Distance from the castle: 77km*

Frequently Asked Questions about Pierrefond Castle tickets

What is included with my Pierrefonds Castle entry ticket?

our entry ticket includes entry to the castle and the park, access to ongoing exhibitions, and guided tours of the castle that take place throughout the day, at specific times.

What are the timings of the guided tours?

Guided tours take place at 10:405am, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm. Upon arrival, register at the reception desk, at no additional cost.

Can I enter the castle at any time with my tickets?

Yes, you can enter the castle at any time during its operational hours.

What is the cancellation policy on my tickets?

Your tickets cannot be canceled; they can be reschduled for a later date (valid till Aug 3, 2025).

Is there a special tour of all the filming locations in the castle?

Currently, there is no special tour of the filming locations.

Do the tickets include access to ongoing exhibitions?

Yes, your entry tickets cover that too. If you’re really keen on attending the exhibitions, check out their dates in advance so you can plan your castle visit accordingly.

How long will it take to tour Pierrefonds Castle?

If you opt for a guided tour, it’ll take you about 60 minutes. If you opt for a self-guided visit instead, it may take you anywhere between 75–90 minutes.