The present Highcliffe Castle was built between 1830 and 1835 during the reign of William IV. The castle elegantly rests near the cliffs of the sea near Christchurch. It was erected on part of the estate of the first High Cliff built in 1773 and demolished after it’s contents were disposed in 1794. The current Highcliffe is a structure that was built after the need for defense and strength had long disappeared, but it’s appearance is still worthy of the title "castle".

Highcliffe Castle has a romantic and picturesque style of architecture. Much of the building materials including fine medieval stone, stained glass, paneling and a complete oriel window were acquired in France and shipped by barges across the English Channel to be incorporated into the design of the castle. The magnificent window has a prominent place on the south front of the building and is called the "King’s Oriel".

The castle is owned by the Christchurch Borough Council. The Council and the English Heritage began the restoration of the exterior of the castle in 1994. It is complete today and open to visitors.