castle description creative writing ks1

Your cart is empty

Estimated total, country/region.

• AUD $ | Australia
• EUR € | Austria
• EUR € | Belgium
• CAD $ | Canada
• EUR € | Croatia
• EUR € | Estonia
• EUR € | Finland
• EUR € | France
• EUR € | Germany
• EUR € | Greece
• EUR € | Ireland
• EUR € | Italy
• EUR € | Latvia
• EUR € | Lithuania
• EUR € | Luxembourg
• EUR € | Malta
• EUR € | Netherlands
• EUR € | Portugal
• EUR € | Slovakia
• EUR € | Slovenia
• EUR € | Spain
• GBP £ | United Kingdom
• USD $ | United States

How to Describe In Writing Castles

When you're describing a castle, consider whose perspective you're writing from. Perhaps a prince might gloss past the fine masonry but a peasant might feel awed by it. Maybe a prisoner might focus on details that are grim or foreboding. Maybe a struggling king would notice threadbare tapestries and thin cushions. 

Vocabulary to Describe Castles

Exterior Parts

• Keep : The main fortified tower
• Other towers : Including watchtowers, gatehouses, and corner towers
• Moat : A water-filled ditch surrounding the castle as defence
• Drawbridge : A bridge that can be raised or lowered
• Parapet : Protective wall at the top of a fortification
• Portcullis : A heavy, metal gate that can be lowered & raised (the metal grid thing you see go up and down in movies)

Interior Parts

• Great Hall: The heart of the castle, used for dining, feasting, and gatherings. The big room where stereotypical fantasy kings chomp on turkey legs
• Parlour : A smaller, more intimate room for conversation and relaxation
• Kitchen : Often with a large open hearth
• Pantry : A room for storing food and drink
• Larder : A cool room for preserving meat
• Buttery : For storing dairy products
• Cellar : For storing wine, ale, etc.

Where your castle’s built might impact its design, features or ambiance. For example...

Why was this castle built, initially? Castles made mainly for protection may have features like thicker walls, towering keeps, and a strong emphasis on defensive features like arrow slits, portcullises, and moats. Castles designed mostly for living (e.g. as primarily residences) might have larger and more ornate halls, comfortable living quarters, and features like gardens or chapels.

The rising sun caught each of the panes of glass and lit them like spring fire. The ivy was green and lush. The berries in the Christmas boughs were bright as battle. It was a grand and welcoming and beautiful sight, vibrant and alive. Yes, there was smoking fire in the background and walls had newly been knocked down, but it was impossible not to see that beneath that, the castle had a live and beating heart.

– Maggie Stiefvater, Bravely

This tower, patched unevenly with black ivy, arose like a mutilated finger from among the fists of knuckled masonry and pointed blasphemously at heaven. At night the owls made of it an echoing throat; by day it stood voiceless and cast its long shadow.

― Mervyn Peake, Titus Groan

You might also need...

Character workbook.

(272) 272 total reviews

Plot Structure Workbook

(30) 30 total reviews

Fantasy Worldbuilding Workbook

(163) 163 total reviews

Romance Workbook

(158) 158 total reviews

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

• International
• Education Jobs
• Schools directory
• Resources Education Jobs Schools directory News Search

Dragon + Castle Creative Writing - R + KS1

Last updated

28 February 2024

• Share through email
• Share through twitter
• Share through linkedin
• Share through facebook
• Share through pinterest

Resources included (5)

Watch Out for the Dragon! Descriptive writing sheet, 3 grades: R, Y1, Y2

Dragon Writing + Colouring Sheet - 1 line

Dragon's Menu - food fun + alliteration sandwiched together for Ys2-6

My Castle + Castle Character Poetry Frames (KS1) - graded

Castle Treasure picture-writing sheet + word bank

Celebrate St David’s Day with Welsh dragons, castles or both, with this array of attractive, child-friendly picture-poems, stretching vocabulary and ideas simultaneously. A dragon’s menu (with alliteration), castle features and characters, castle treasure and who knows what sort of dragons (the children can decide) feature in these sheets, some with 3 grades of difficulty. Successfully tried and tested.

Tes paid licence How can I reuse this?

Your rating is required to reflect your happiness.

It's good to leave some feedback.

Something went wrong, please try again later.

This resource hasn't been reviewed yet

To ensure quality for our reviews, only customers who have purchased this resource can review it

Report this resource to let us know if it violates our terms and conditions. Our customer service team will review your report and will be in touch.

Not quite what you were looking for? Search by keyword to find the right resource:

English Activities

• Year One / Key Stage 1
• Year Two / Key Stage 1
• Year Three / Key Stage Two
• Year Four / Key Stage Two
• Free E-Books: KS1 Book Challenge
• KS2 Book Challenge
• Free Media: Key Stage 1 Videos
• Key Stage 2 Videos

Maths Activities

• E-Books: STEM Journal

Science Activities

• E-Books: History Timeline Notebook
• Nature Journal
• STEM Journal

Topic Activities

• Key Stage One
• Key Stage Two
• Year 1 / KS1
• Year 2 / KS1
• Year 3 / Key Stage Two
• Year 4 / Key Stage Two
• Year 5 / Key Stage Two
• Year 6 / Key Stage Two
• Guide: EYFS / ELG
• Guide: National Curriculum of England
• Guide: Articles

Contact Hub

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Memberships
• We're Hiring!
• One Tree Planted
• 1% For The Planet
• We're Hiring

• ks1 annual membership
• add to cart

Key Stage 1: Castles (Free Topic)

• Reception (age 3-5)
• Key Stage 1 (age 5-7)
• Key Stage 2 (age 7-11)
• Art & Design
• Design & Technology

Physical Education

KS1 Castles

Free Topic!

Castles Activities

Castle Timeline

Hands-on activities:.

• Castle's In Britain Video
• Castle Timeline Cards
• History Timeline Cards

National Curriculum of England

Design And Build A Castle

• How Castles Were Built Video
• Castle Design Criteria Sheet
• Cardboard box
• Craft sticks
• Toilet rolls / recycling
• Tape / glue
• Coloured pens

Castle Characters

• Who Lived In Castles Video
• Who Lived In Castles Activity Sheet

Heraldry Design

• Heraldry and Coat of Arms Video
• Heraldry Design Activity Sheet

Illuminating Letters

• The Art Of Illuminating Letters Video
• Illuminating Letters Activity Sheet
• Water colour paints

Cooking In Castles

• Cooking In Castles Video
• Appropriate ingredients
• Appropriate cooking tools

Bayeux Tapestry Story

• About The Bayeux Tapestry Video
• Roll of paper / A3 paper
• Paintbrushes

Design And Make A Catapult

• All About Catapults Video
• Catapult Design Criteria Sheet
• Cardboard box from recycling
• Stick / pencil
• Wooden spoon / tea spoon
• Elastic band
• Small bouncy ball / pom poms

Castle Fieldtrip And Observation

• Castle Fieldtrip Activity Sheet

More History topics

History, Art, Design & Technology, Geography

Christopher Columbus

Neil Armstrong

History, Design & Technology, Science

Castles Booklist

What is the content of the KS1 Castles Topic for Year 1 and Year 2?

The KS1 Castles Topic for Year 1 and Year 2 covers an array of engaging and inspiring teaching resources focused on igniting the interest of young students in Castles. Throughout this topic, children will delve into the history of medieval castles, particularly revolving around the Normans. They will explore various aspects such as the locations where castles were built, the inhabitants of these fortresses, the architectural structure of castles, and much more.

Throughout this topic, children will delve into the history of medieval castles, particularly revolving around the Normans. They will explore various aspects such as the locations where castles were built, the inhabitants of these fortresses, the architectural structure of castles, and much more. As part of understanding the architectural structure, students will learn about the essential components that made up these grand medieval constructions.

Key elements such as the outer walls, which served as the primary barrier against invaders, towers that provided vantage points for surveillance and defence, and the gatehouse, the main entrance fortified to prevent enemy entry, will be explored. Additionally, the motte (an earthen mound) and bailey (an enclosed courtyard), fundamental to early Norman castles, will be discussed. Students will also discover how features like slit windows were designed for archers to defend the castle without exposing themselves, and how the portcullis, a heavy grilled door, added an extra layer of security.

By examining these components, children will gain a deeper understanding of the strategic design and engineering feats of medieval castle construction, reflecting the power and wealth of those who built them.

How can the Castles activities be utilized in the classroom?

5. The Art Of Illuminating Letters

In this topic your child will dive into the history of castles by designing and building one, create castle characters and discover the timeline of castles. Delve into illuminating letters, heraldry design and cooking in castles. This resource meets the following aspects of the National Curriculum of England: Art, Design & Technology, Geography and History. Don’t forget to check out the rest of our key stage one topics where you will find great curriculum standard activities for your classroom or home educated children. There are plenty of subjects for you to choose from, so you’ll be delighted with the wide range when planning your day.

Explore a wide array of engaging activities related to castles, including hands-on experiences in art, design & technology, geography, and history. Your child will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of castles by designing and building their own castle models, creating captivating castle characters, and uncovering the rich timeline of castles throughout history. Dive into the art of illuminating letters, delve into the intricate world of heraldry design, and even try your hand at cooking in castles.

Aligned with the National Curriculum of England, this resource offers a comprehensive approach to learning, incorporating key elements of art, design & technology, geography, and history into a fun and educational experience. Whether you are a teacher looking to enhance your classroom activities or a parent seeking engaging educational resources for your home-educated children, this resource provides a wealth of curriculum-standard activities to enrich your learning environment. Explore the vast range of subjects available and discover the exciting possibilities that await when planning your educational journey.

What historical aspects are explored in the Castle History KS1 lessons of the Castles Topic?

In this engaging Castle History KS1 series, your child will embark on an exciting journey through the captivating history of castles. Through designing and constructing their own castle, creating vivid castle characters, and tracing the timeline of these majestic structures, your child will immerse themselves in a world of medieval wonders. Delve into the fascinating realms of illuminating letters, heraldry design, and castle cuisine, providing a rich exploration of the historical significance of castles. This resource thoughtfully aligns with the National Curriculum of England, encompassing elements of Art, Design & Technology, Geography, and History, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience for your child.

What is the overall focus and objective of each lesson included in the curriculum?

The overall focus of each lesson is to engage students in thinking about the geographical aspects of castles, including their locations, features, and influences on strength, while also developing their map reading skills and understanding of human and physical geography features.

How are the lessons differentiated to support children in their learning?

The lessons include a range of differentiated activities and printable resources to cater to varying learning needs and abilities, ensuring that all children are supported in their learning and engagement with the material.

What skills and concepts will students develop through the Castle Geography KS1 lessons?

Students will develop skills in map reading, critical thinking about the location and features of castles, understanding human and physical geographical features, and how these features influence the strength of castles.

How are the lessons structured, and what resources are included in each lesson?

Each Castle Geography KS1 lesson comes complete with a detailed lesson plan, a presentation for teaching input, a range of differentiated activities, and printable resources to support children in their learning.

What geography objectives are covered in the resources for teaching about castles and medieval music?

In this topic your child will dive into the history of castles by designing and building one, create castle characters and discover the timeline of castles. Delve into illuminating letters, heraldry design and cooking in castles. This resource meets the following aspects of the National Curriculum of England: Art, Design & Technology, Geography, and History.

Furthermore, the geography objectives covered in the resources for teaching about castles and medieval music encompass a range of key skills for Key Stage 1 (KS1) students. These include naming and locating the world's seven continents and five oceans, identifying characteristics of the four countries and capital cities of the United Kingdom, using basic geographical vocabulary to describe physical features, utilizing world maps, atlases, and globes to identify countries and regions, applying compass directions and locational language to describe features on maps, recognizing landmarks through aerial photographs and plan perspectives, devising simple maps, and using basic symbols in a key. By exploring these geography objectives alongside the rich historical context of castles and medieval music, students can develop a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter

What is included in the Castle KS1 DT lessons related to the Castles Topic?

7. About The Bayeux Tapestry

In the Castle KS1 DT lessons related to the Castles Topic, students will engage in an exciting activity titled 'Design And Build A Castle.' This hands-on project involves watching a Heraldry and Coat of Arms video, using a Castle Design Criteria Sheet, and gathering materials such as pencils, cardboard boxes, craft sticks, toilet rolls, scissors, tape or glue, paint, paintbrushes, and coloured pens. This activity falls under the subjects of Design & Technology and History, offering an interactive learning experience for students. The Castle KS1 DT lessons cover a wide range of topics, providing students with a thorough understanding of medieval tools and the opportunity to design and create their own castle models. Each lesson is thoughtfully designed and includes detailed lesson plans, video presentations, differentiated activities, and printable resources to support children in their learning journey.

What are the Castle Art KS1 lessons included in the Castles Topic?

Castle Art KS1 lessons included in the Castles Topic consist of hands-on activities such as heraldry design, illuminating letters, and designing and building a castle. These activities involve creating a coat of arms, exploring the art of illuminating letters, and constructing a castle using various materials like cardboard, craft sticks, and paint. The lessons also cover topics like castle characters, castle field trip and observation, and the Bayeux Tapestry story, integrating elements of history, art & design, and design & technology into the curriculum.

Furthermore, the Castle Art KS1 lessons provide a holistic learning experience for Year 1 and Year 2 students. Students will engage in practical tasks that encourage creativity and critical thinking. By participating in activities such as heraldry design and castle construction, students will not only learn about art but also deepen their understanding of historical concepts related to castles. These hands-on lessons aim to foster a multidisciplinary approach to learning, incorporating elements of history, art, design, and technology to create an immersive educational experience for young learners.

What activities and resources are included in the Bayeux Tapestry KS1 Art lesson plan?

The Bayeux Tapestry KS1 Art lesson plan comprises a detailed plan, a slideshow presentation, various teaching resources, and a range of activity ideas designed to engage young learners. The activities included in the lesson plan aim to introduce students to the historical significance of the Bayeux Tapestry while exploring various art techniques and concepts. Additionally, the resources provided facilitate interactive learning experiences and hands-on projects that help students develop their creative skills and understanding of this historical artifact.

What topics are covered in the Castles Music lessons for exploring medieval instruments and composing music?

The Castles Music lessons for exploring medieval instruments and composing music cover a wide range of topics to engage students in a cross-curricular learning experience. In these lessons, students will listen to authentic medieval music and learn about the unique techniques used to play ancient instruments. They will delve into the similarities and differences between medieval instruments and modern versions, gaining hands-on experience by playing the instruments themselves. Additionally, students will explore the concept of composing music, comparing it to the traditional music they have learned in previous lessons. They will follow simple notations to play different rhythms and will be encouraged to create their own musical pieces using the provided printable resources. Throughout the lessons, students will have the opportunity to expand their musical knowledge, enhance their creativity, and immerse themselves in the rich history of medieval music. The lesson materials include a detailed plan, a video presentation, and various printable teaching resources to support a comprehensive and interactive learning experience.

What music-related lessons are included in the Castles Topic for KS1 students?

The Castles Topic for KS1 students includes music lessons that focus on teaching about medieval musical instruments and how to create their own compositions. These lessons provide a detailed plan, slideshow presentation, various activities, and printable resources to support children in learning about music in the context of castles.

What teaching resources are provided in the Castles Topic pack?

The Castles Topic pack offers a comprehensive range of teaching resources aimed at engaging students in the intriguing world of medieval castles. Specifically designed for Key Stage 1 (KS1) learners, this pack includes ready-to-teach lessons that cover a variety of curriculum subjects. Each lesson plan is detailed, accompanied by a slide show presentation to aid in teaching, and features differentiated activity ideas to cater to various learning needs. In addition, the pack includes a selection of fun and colourful printable worksheets and resources that can be used in the classroom. For those interested in Castle Art lessons, the pack also includes three complete art lessons centered around castles. These lessons are designed to introduce Year 1 or Year 2 students to art featuring castles, allowing them to create their own castle-inspired art projects. Each art lesson is supported by a detailed plan, a slide show presentation for instructional purposes, and a range of activities and printable resources to facilitate children's learning experience. By downloading the KS1 Castles Topic pack, educators can not only immerse their class in the fascinating world of castles but also save valuable planning time.

How is the Year 2 Castles Non-chronological Reports English Planning Pack related to the Castles Topic?

The Year 2 Castles Non-chronological Reports English Planning Pack is closely linked to the Castles Topic as it provides comprehensive resources to assist Year 2 students in effectively creating non-chronological reports specifically focused on castles. By aligning with the topic of castles, this planning pack offers the necessary tools and guidance for students to confidently research and write detailed reports about castles. It serves as a tailored educational resource that enhances the learning experience by offering targeted support for students exploring the intricate world of castles and their historical significance.

What specific lessons are included in the Castles Topic pack?

The Castles Topic pack includes a wide range of lessons covering various aspects related to castles. Some of the specific lessons included in the pack are as follows:

• Art lessons on the Bayeux Tapestry, Castle Engravings, and Watercolour Castles
• Design and Technology (DT) lessons on designing Medieval tools and designing and making a castle
• Geography lessons on why castles were built on hills, exploring castle land features, capital city castles, and planning a map
• History lessons on The Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest, Norman Motte and Bailey Castles, the structure of a Medieval castle, who lived in a Medieval castle, why did the Peasants Revolt, and the history of the Tower of London
• Music lessons on exploring Medieval instruments and composing music

These lessons aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of castles from various perspectives such as art, design, geography, history, and music.

What subjects are covered in the Castles Topic lessons?

2. How Castles Were Built

The Castles topic lessons cover a range of subjects including Art, Design & Technology, Geography, and History for Key Stage 1 students in Year 1 and Year 2. These lessons delve into events beyond living memory related to the topic, allowing students to explore various cross-curricular themes within the context of Castles.

What is the significance of the Latin roots of the words castle and knight?

The Latin roots of the words "castle" and "knight" illuminate the original meanings and historical implications these terms carried. Starting with "castle," its derivation from the Latin "castellum" or "castrum" signifies a strong, fortified structure. This highlights its primary function in medieval societies: defense and power. The term "fortis," meaning strong, further underscores the robust, enduring nature of these structures, which were built to withstand sieges and protect the inhabitants.

On the other hand, the term "knight" originates from the Old English "cniht," meaning a boy or servant, and the Germanic "knecht," used in both German and Dutch languages. This suggests that the role of knights began as young servants or attendants, evolving over time into a title bestowed upon those serving monarchs and nobles in military capacities. This evolution in meaning reflects changes in social structures and duties from humble beginnings to esteemed warriors.

Understanding these origins not only provides insights into etymology but also helps in appreciating the deep historical and cultural significance embedded in these terms, shedding light on their roles and perceptions in past societies.

Discover Engaging KS1 Teaching Resources on Castles and Knights

For educators aiming to bring the medieval era to life in their classrooms, there’s a rich assortment of resources tailored specifically for Key Stage 1 students focusing on Castles, Knights, and Medieval life. Here's what's available to make your history lessons exciting and educational:

Interactive Castle Diagrams and Activities

• Dive into detailed diagrams of castles that come complete with labels to help students identify and understand different parts such as turrets, ramparts, and moats.
• Engage children with hands-on activities that allow them to explore the various components of a castle.

Vocabulary Enhancement Tools

• Enhance language skills with vocabulary packs that introduce and explain key medieval terms in an accessible way.

Creative Arts and Crafts

• Encourage creativity with knight-themed craft projects that are not only fun but also educational, reinforcing the themes being learned.
• Let students design and create their own castle flags using provided bunting templates, perfect for a colorful classroom display.

Cross-Curricular Opportunities

• The resources don’t just limit themselves to history. They encompass English language arts and art, providing a comprehensive learning experience that intertwines different curriculum areas.

With these resources, teachers can effectively introduce their students to an exciting historical period, making history both accessible and engaging for young learners. The variety of materials ensures that every student can find something that captures their imagination and enhances their understanding of the medieval world.

What free benefits are included in creating an account with Hands-On Education?

Creating a free account with Hands-On Education offers several enticing benefits that enrich one’s teaching resources arsenal. Firstly, users gain access to a vast collection of free teaching materials, readily available for download. Additionally, each week, account holders have the privilege of choosing a free resource tailored to their needs through Hands-On Education’s newsletter. In response to specific demands, users can also request the creation of new resources. To top it all off, dedicated 24/7 customer support is available, staffed by real people, ensuring help is always at hand.

What promise does Hands-On Education make about the resources available for teachers and home educators?

Hands-On Education pledges to offer educational resources that are expertly crafted by teachers to ensure they meet the needs of both educators and students. The company guarantees the accuracy and applicability of its materials, specifically designed to be age-appropriate for Year 1 and Year 2 students and to align flawlessly with the guidelines of the National Curriculum. This commitment ensures that the resources provided are not only relevant but also reliable and effective for teaching and learning.

Discover Hands-On Education

Reception (Completely Free)

English Topics (Year 1-3)

Maths Topics (Year 1-3)

Science Topics (Year 1-4)

Key Stage 1 Topics (Year 1 & 2)

Key Stage 2 Topics (Year 3-6)

Free Topics (All Years)

Primary Booklists (All Years)

Log in or Sign up

You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser .

Vanna Heller Banned

How do you describe a castle.

Discussion in ' Setting Development ' started by Vanna Heller , Nov 20, 2020 .

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); So the main setting in my novel takes place in a castle, and I am having trouble describing what each room in the castle would look while showing and not telling... Thoughts?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); One of the characters in my novel secretly explore each room in the castle, so that's why I am asking.  

IasminDragon Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); What kind of castle is it?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); IasminDragon said: ↑ What kind of castle is it? Click to expand...

Naomasa298 HP: 10/190 Status: Confused Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Real medieval castles were stone, cold, and pretty dank, if it was a military castle. That's why royal families tended to relocate to palaces. However, try Googling "Windsor Castle interior" for what a "fairy tale castle"'s interior might look like.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Naomasa298 said: ↑ Real medieval castles were stone, cold, and pretty dank, if it was a military castle. That's why royal families tended to relocate to palaces. However, try Googling "Windsor Castle interior" for what a "fairy tale castle"'s interior might look like. Click to expand...

Wreybies Thrice Retired Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Also, who is doing the describing in the story? Just a 3rd omniscient narrator who is free to describe everything and anything, or is it a 3rd limited narrator, or a 1st person narrator? If it's one of the latter two, then we must know who this is and what this castle means in this person's life. The prince who lives within, bored to tears at the tedium and restrictions of courtly life, will give a significantly different description (be it through dialogue or narrative) than the pauper who only just secured a job inside these majestic realms.  

MartinM Banned

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Just an idea... So, take any castle from anywhere. The outside setting and that impression it leaves with the explorer. Dark blue-grey stone walls, high towers with small slit like windows. Now the internal structure will reflect this outside image. It must for continuity. Every room wall facing will have that stone and small window. There will be absolute commonalty throughout its internal structure. Thus, the differences in each room can be extenuated more. From dungeon to King’s bedroom they all have the same stone walls... The reader must feel the common of each room to then reveal its uniqueness. One room with a white tiled floor, sandstone walls and brightly lit through floor to ceiling windows would look and feel out of place. If that makes sense? Look at The Crown S4 when Thatcher goes to Balmoral. The stags head on the wall in the dinning room gives a cold dark feel even with an open fire... MartinM  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Wreybies said: ↑ Also, who is doing the describing in the story? Just a 3rd omniscient narrator who is free to describe everything and anything, or is it a 3rd limited narrator, or a 1st person narrator? If it's one of the latter two, then we must know who this is and what this castle means in this person's life. The prince who lives within, bored to tears at the tedium and restrictions of courtly life, will give a significantly different description (be it through dialogue or narrative) than the pauper who only just secured a job inside these majestic realms. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); MartinM said: ↑ Just an idea... So, take any castle from anywhere. The outside setting and that impression it leaves with the explorer. Dark blue-grey stone walls, high towers with small slit like windows. Now the internal structure will reflect this outside image. It must for continuity. Every room wall facing will have that stone and small window. There will be absolute commonalty throughout its internal structure. Thus, the differences in each room can be extenuated more. From dungeon to King’s bedroom they all have the same stone walls... The reader must feel the common of each room to then reveal its uniqueness. One room with a white tiled floor, sandstone walls and brightly lit through floor to ceiling windows would look and feel out of place. If that makes sense? Look at The Crown S4 when Thatcher goes to Balmoral. The stags head on the wall in the dinning room gives a cold dark feel even with an open fire... MartinM Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Oh, and I forgot to mention that the novel itself is taking place in Romania.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Vanna Heller said: ↑ Your castle description would fit, since the royal family is of vampires, but that sounds a lot like a cliche so I'm thinking more of a palace. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); IasminDragon said: ↑ for a fairytale castle, check out Dunrobin castle: Not a true castle but as others have said, a stately home which is built for comfort and luxury. Still strikes an imposing presence though. And the family that lived there were evil, to boot! Oh, since you said that, this is the castle you want : It had nothing to do with Dracula in reality. It guarded a pass in the Carpathian Mountains and English mercenaries were stationed there during the medieval era. It was renovated in a neo-romanticist style (I think) so it's not gothic dracula, it's more like Romania's answer to the Disneyland castle and is very beautiful. The Royal Family took their summer retreats there - kind of like the Balmoral Castle for Carol I (I THINK!) All your fairytale castles kind of owe their existence to Neuschwanstein Castle, which gets an honourable mention from me. Definitely key to distinguish between a real true medieval castle and a romanticist interpretation of a castle. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Vanna Heller said: ↑ Awesome! Thank you so much, This is perfect! Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Wow, yeah I think I will use this one. Thanks again  

Xoic Prognosticator of Arcana Ridiculosum Contributor Blogerator

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); I would try to find a movie partially set inside a castle like the one you want to use, or maybe you can find a video tour on YT or something, so you can get a feel for what it's like to move through the rooms and corridors. Also think about similar experiences you've had in large, imposing buildings, maybe a museum or something. But I would be careful with trying to describe each room one by one. They're all going to be the same in many regards, maybe different shape or size and furnishings. But I wouldn't go into a detailed visual description of individual rooms. Personally I like to limit descriptions as far as possible, ultimately to a word or 2 added to several sentences. Example: He set off across the vast expanse of polished marble, keeping to the ornate rugs when possible to muffle the echoing footfalls .This doesn't stop the forward momentum of the story, but gets in a little of the feel of the room-space. I mean, that's a horrible sentence, I used 'the' far too many times. Think of it as a really bad first draft sentence. But my point is to pepper little snippets of description into your writing, rather than stop to do a description.  

Kalisto Senior Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Vanna Heller said: ↑ So the main setting in my novel takes place in a castle, and I am having trouble describing what each room in the castle would look while showing and not telling... Thoughts? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Kallisto said: ↑ Castles were actually painted on the interior and quite colorful. Click to expand...

DriedPen Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Late to the party as always, but when I think of a real medieval castle, I think of Bunratty Castle in Ireland.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Xoic said: ↑ Interesting. Like Greek statues, which we're used to seeing colorless and broken. Click to expand...

Oscar Leigh Inexplicable lunch fiend Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); If it's the setting for most or all of the book and the character is exploring rooms you can do it very much one by one. I would advocate not to be too minimalist, minimalism in descriptions is safe but it's not very interesting. Taking the scenes one by one, or certainly not all at once, you can get in quite a bit of description as long as it seems spaced-out and appropriate. Therein a key part is using description for a reason, to convey atmosphere, themes, aspects of who the designers and inhabitants of a place are and what it means to them. And you can incorporate description into plot; if the character is exploring they can notice things, react to them, touch, feel, smell. They might be given some form of tour or explanation of some features at some point, or learn something about where a certain object came from. There's a lot of things you can use description for and ways description can be added.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); I am like Oscar in that I think descriptions have their place. There are a couple of ways you can do this. Lets say I am writing my initial story and a character walks into a barn. Instead of stopping right then and trying to figure out what I am going to describe or how. I might type in "Description of Barn" make it a title 2, and then keep going. That way in my navigation pane in Microsoft Word, I can see, in say chapter 3, I have to go back and describe that barn better. In that way I do not stop my writing mo-jo at the time to get the details right. Another thing I might do is give the barn a light, generic explanation, and then later in editing, flesh it out. This works good because not all settings have to be deeply described. Just using the right senses, in the right places, creates the illusion of a reader being right there. But not all settings need that level of involvement for a reader, other wise it bogs down the story.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); Beginners have a tendency to want to over-describe everything, and they do it by stopping the story dead in its tracks. I do agree with you @Oscar Leigh and @DriedPen that description has its place, but it's important to first learn not to bring the story to a screeching halt, and that there are ways to get across the look or feel of a place or a thing without parking the story on the side of the road and doing a top-to-bottom description.  

Aldarion Active Member

newjerseyrunner Contributor Contributor Contest Winner 2022

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_25aff17672a8c5306ac8f8a5ca84a0b0'); }); I would use a lot of brutal terminology. Brutal as in the concrete architecture style, not brutish behavior. Grey, oppressive, rough angles, unfriendly...  

Share This Page

• Log in with Facebook
• Log in with Twitter
• Log in with Google
• No, create an account now.
• Yes, my password is:
• Forgot your password?

• Search titles only

Separate names with a comma.

• Search this thread only
• Display results as threads

Useful Searches

• Recent Posts
• This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn More... Dismiss Notice