Situated Between Austin & Houston Lies A European-Style Medieval Castle That Offers Tours

California isn't the only place in America to discover beautiful castles brimming with European charm. Nestled between Austin and Houston, just outside Bellville in central Texas, stands Newman's Castle — a European-style medieval fortress conjured from the imagination of Mike Newman, a local bakery owner. Inspired by his travels across Europe, Newman envisioned a genuine castle — not a faux structure, but a fully functional medieval dwelling. Beginning in 1998, he and a friend labored for over a decade to bring the dream to life. The result: a cinderblock-and-stucco keep surrounded by a moat, working drawbridge, portcullis, five corner turrets, chapel, dungeon, banquet hall, and courtyard — a labor of love built brick by brick.

The castle is more than a backyard oddity — it's now a fully operational tourist destination. Visitors check in at Newman's Bakery in downtown Bellville before journeying to the castle, a 1.5-hour drive from Houston and about two hours from Austin.

Tours of Newman's Castle run six days a week, typically with check-in at 10:30 a.m. at the bakery. The visit begins around 11 a.m. with an introduction to the castle's history and its imaginative builder, followed by a self-guided exploration. Guided by Newman himself or a castle "keeper," visitors may see dramatic demonstrations like lowering the 3,000-pound drawbridge or launching a rock into the moat from a trebuchet. Kids often take part in knighting ceremonies or pretend battles, brandishing wooden swords as they charge the gate.

Tours last roughly an hour to 90 minutes and conclude with a simple lunch consisting of sandwiches, pastries, doughnuts, or cookies — all from Newman's Bakery. Outside, ambitious visitors can climb the bell tower for sweeping views of the rolling countryside. Though if you're looking to spend the night in a castle — without trekking over to Europe — you can live like royalty in these castle-themed hotels right here in the United States.

Newman's Castle offers a rare blend of quirky charm and heartfelt craftsmanship. It's a tangible manifestation of one man's dream, rooted in community, creativity, and a love for storytelling. Its location conveniently on the route between Houston and Austin makes it an ideal day trip for families, history buffs, or anyone hungry for something offbeat.

After touring the castle, visitors can browse Bellville's antique stores — Buck Fergeson Originals offers clothing, house goods, and more — blade-forging shops like Phenix Knives, or end the day with dinner at local favorites like Bellville Meat Market. For those planning an immersive getaway filled with whimsy and wonder, Newman's Castle is a hidden fortress plucked from a European fairytale — with Texas soul, small-town hospitality, and fresh baked goods waiting at the end. Or, if you like your fortresses paired with palm trees, check out this odd castle in Florida — it's definitely worth seeing.