Drive Three Hours from Tyler, TX to Explore a Sensational and Beautiful Texas Castle

Have you ever thought of yourself as the king or queen of your own home? Well, Mike Newman decided to create his own castle and name himself king.

He began dreaming of his own castle as he toured Europe in his early 20’s. His dream began to take form in 1998, as he broke ground on his castle in Bellville, TX in 1998.

“In the beginning…people thought I was crazy,” Mike revealed in an interview with Texas Live Magazine. Ten years later, Mike could truly say that he is king of his own castle. “It makes people happy. They leave with restored faith that they can do anything.”

It’s a massive structure complete with a moat and a 3,000 pound working drawbridge and an accompanying portcullis. You’ll also see a chapel, five round corner turrets, a courtyard, and a central keep. There is also a perimeter wall that encompasses the castle.

Newman has his castle available for tours six days a week, and for special events. Reservations are required to visit the castle. Newman began as a baker, and the bakery is still thriving in Bellville. The bakery has been serving the local community for over 33 years. In addition to baked goods, they offer breakfast, lunch and hot soup.

To tour the castle, you’ll check in at the bakery before 10:30 a.m. It’s located at 504 E. Main St. in Bellville. You’ll get directions to the castle at the bakery. It’s about five miles out in the country, and the tour will last about 90 minutes.