Surrounded by thick forests and situated atop a hill, the Loveland Castle Museum in Loveland, Ohio rises above the picturesque Little Miami River with a mysterious feel.
Since its construction in the 1920s by Boy Scout troop leader, World War I veteran, and medievalist Harry D. Andrews, the Loveland Castle aka Château Laroche has gone through several upgrades and renovations. Harry, believe it or not, built the castle by himself using stones from the nearby river. When he ran out of stones, he used quart milk cartons for concrete bricks. Harry’s inspiration came from his stay in southwest France where he was stationed during World War I.
Andrews began building the castle as a way to honor the knights of the Middle Ages. The castle was built using medieval techniques, including a type of mortar made from sand, lime, and egg whites.
The castle features a great hall, a chapel, a dungeon, and several towers. It also has a collection of medieval armor, weapons, and artifacts, many of which were donated by Andrews’ friends and family.
Today, Loveland Castle is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the castle and its grounds, which include gardens, a moat, and a drawbridge. The castle also hosts events throughout the year, including medieval festivals, ghost tours, and summer camps for children.
Loveland Castle is a unique attraction in Ohio, and it offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the magic and wonder of the Middle Ages.
It took Harry more than 50 years to build it. When he died in 1981, at age 91, Harry passed the ownership of his castle to the Boy Scout troop he created, the Knights of the Golden Trail (KOGT). Since then, the troop has opened the castle to the public. It has now become one the tourist attractions in southern Ohio.
Inside the 3-level castle are some of Harry’s collections. You will see the suit of armor, a small piece of the Berlin Wall, and a copy of the Andrews family coat-of-arms “granted by King Henry VIII in 1534.” Photos of Harry and the history of the castle are displayed in the first level.
Recently, a garden was created in front of the castle.
Visitors can tour the three levels (plus a basement) and see the interiors, including Harry’s bedroom and office.
Where to find it?
Address: 12025 Shore Dr, Loveland, OH 45140
Phone: 513-683-4686
Click here for the GPS direction
What’s the admission fee?
There is a $5 entrance fee for adults. Kids can enter for free!
Where to park?
There is a designated parking space for visitors and guests.
What are the visiting hours?
The castle is open everyday from 10AM to 6 PM.
