Royal Mail has unveiled its latest thematic issue, dedicated to some of the most iconic castles across the United Kingdom. The release consists of 12 postage stamps in total – eight photographic designs featuring historic castles from all four nations, and a miniature sheet with four royal residences illustrated specifically for the project.

The series highlights the importance of castles as part of the cultural and architectural landscape of the UK. They stand as symbols of power, military strength and aristocratic prestige, and many have become landmark monuments that tell stories from different eras – from the Norman Conquest to modern history.

The main set of eight stamps includes castles from Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland and England, each with its own unique past. Dunluce and Dundrum in Northern Ireland reflect different phases of English influence on the island – from early Anglo‑Norman fortifications to the colonisation of Ulster in the 17th century. The Welsh castles of Raglan and Pembroke illustrate the evolution of fortresses from military strongholds into magnificent aristocratic residences.

Scotland’s Urquhart and Stirling are closely linked to key moments in the struggle for independence, and their strategic locations made them witnesses to decisive battles. England’s Warwick and Bamburgh represent two distinct historical periods – the Norman conquest and the earlier Anglo‑Saxon tradition embedded in the northern borders of the kingdom.

The miniature sheet adds four more impressive royal castles – Caernarfon, Windsor, Dover and Balmoral. For these, Royal Mail commissioned new artwork by British illustrator Rob Ball, known for his distinctive style and work on major cultural projects.

The issue is printed by Cartor Security Printers using lithography, with the stamps produced to precise specifications and characteristic dimensions. Collectors can also enjoy additional products, including a presentation pack with texts by historian John Goodall, a collector’s sheet with self‑adhesive stamps and aerial photographs, postcards, and first‑day covers with themed postmarks.

The new “Castles” series is both a tribute to the architectural heritage of the United Kingdom and an appealing addition for philatelists who appreciate historical themes and high‑quality design. The stamps will be available from 21 May and are certain to find their place in collections around the world.