Thanks to the global pandemic, the good old staycation is making a comeback. We may not have year-round sun or endless sandy white beaches. But luckily the UK does have a lot to offer – from rich culture and history to beautiful cities and landscapes. As part of this, the UK has an impressive number of stunning castles – in fact, Wales is known as the Castle Capital of the world!
For an extra special UK getaway, a luxurious stay in an iconic castle is unmissable. Sleep in a four-poster bed and wake up in a room fit for a King or Queen. Relax in a free-standing bathtub and marvel at the antique furniture. Enjoy afternoon tea alongside suits of armour and explore the beautiful British countryside. The perfect break away for couples, it doesn’t get more romantic than a castle stay.
There are plenty of amazing castle stays to choose from in the UK. Here I have compiled my top castle picks, divided by country:
Castle Stays in England
Langley Castle, Northumberland
A 14th century castle hotel and restaurant located in the beautiful surroundings of Hexham, Northumberland. Langley Castle offers a truly decadent stay for guests, combining pure comfort and indulgence with a touch of class.
The rooms are a stunning example of castle accommodation. Plus, you can choose a room to suit your budget. If you’re looking to experience ‘castle life’, then Langley Castle will not disappoint.
Hever Castle, Kent
Known for its award-winning gardens and impressive double-moat, Hever Castle in Kent is a stunning 13th century castle. The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, it is a truly unique and historically rich hotel experience.
Stay in the five-star luxury bed and breakfast of the Astor Wing and Anne Boleyn Wing. Or opt for the holiday cottage, Medley Court, which is attached to the Astor Wing.
Amberley Castle, West Sussex
Nestled in the beautiful Sussex countryside, Amberley Castle is a luxury castle hotel. Retaining many of its original features and decorations, this 900-year-old castle is steeped in history.
There are 19 beautiful guest rooms and a magnificent restaurant for unforgettable dining. Find a quiet corner by the fireside to sit back and relax, or get active on the tennis courts, putting green or croquet lawn.
Thornbury Castle, South Gloucestershire
Built in the 1500s, Thornbury Castle is the ultimate Tudor Castle experience. Having housed numerous kings, queens and dukes over the centuries, it is a castle steeped in history. Wander the halls lined with suits of armour and walls draped in tapestries.
In the gardens, you can try archery, croquet and falconry – or just enjoy a delicious afternoon tea in the stunning grounds. You can even stay in the very room slept in by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn! Now that’s got to be the pinnacle of castle stays. Having stayed at Thornbury Castle myself a few years ago, I can wholeheartedly recommend it.
Warwick Castle, Warwick
Everything you could possibly want from a castle stay. Immerse yourself in one thousand years of jaw-dropping history at Warwick Castle, from great battles and spellbinding tales to heroic knights and dark dungeons.
Enjoy a sleepover in Knight’s Village for the perfect family getaway. Or relax like royalty on a perfect romantic escape to the elegant Peacock suite.
Castle Stays in Scotland
Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire
A luxury, award-winning hotel, Glenapp Castle is a place to be inspired, recharge and reconnect. Combining beautiful period furnishings and interiors with breathtaking gardens, forests and seascapes that surround the castle.
A five-star castle stay that offers an intimate service and impressive attention to detail. Winner of “Independent Hotel of the Year”, this is a truly special place to stay.
Cornhill Castle, Biggar
A hidden gem nestled by the banks of the River Clyde, Cornhill Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the wonderful Scottish countryside. With a range of beautiful and spacious suites, you can enjoy a truly luxurious stay.
Tuck into a Scottish feast for your senses in their Ghillie Restaurant. You’ll find a warming fire, dark wooden surrounds and subtle earthy tones as you sit back and indulge in some Scottish-themed favourites.
Borthwick Castle, North Middleton
Find the quintessential castle experience at Borthwick Castle. Enter the ancient arched getaway of the castle and find yourself in a hidden world of luxury and majestic style. Steeped in 600 years of dramatic Scottish history, Borthwick Castle offers a genuine medieval grandeur and atmosphere.
There are 12 sumptuous bedchambers to choose from, all with lavish bathrooms and modern comforts. Enjoy intimate lounge areas, roaring fires, breathtaking views and spiral staircases.
Dalhousie Castle, Edinburgh
Standing proudly in 11 acres of private parkland and wood valleys, Dalhousie Castle offers the best of Scottish hospitality. Have a go at falconry or archery, or take a stroll through the castle estate.
Just eight miles from Edinburgh, the hustle and bustle of the city centre is within tantalising reach. Yet this ancient fortress offers the perfect spot to unwind in blissful seclusion. A wonderfully opulent castle retreat.
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Crossbasket Castle, Glasgow
A stunning 17th century castle, Crossbasket Castle has been transformed into a luxurious hotel. Steeped in history, the castle is adorned with period features and offers nine breath-taking ensuite bedrooms.
Dine in opulent surroundings at the contemporary fine dining restaurant from the Roux culinary dynasty. While the castle grounds offer a large stretch of woodland, extensive nature walks and majestic waterfalls to explore.
Castle Stays in Wales
Château Rhianfa, Anglesey
The Grade II listed Château Rhianfa offers world-class service, a private beach, and panoramic views over the Menai Straits. A French-style property that is utterly enchanting and perfect for a romantic escape.
The bedrooms are lavish and contemporary, while the AA Rosette awarded restaurant offers a truly special dining experience. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the surroundings, or seek out adventure in the nearby mountains.
Roch Castle Hotel, Pembrokeshire
Located on the isolated and beautiful St David’s peninsula of Wales, Roch Castle offers a true get-away-from-it-all escape. A dramatic property that sits high above the Pembrokeshire landscape and offers spectacular views.
With just six guest rooms, Roch Castle offers an intimate experience in a luxury, award-winning hotel. Plus, you can enjoy some excellent fine dining at their sister hotel – just 20 minutes away with complimentary transfers.
Castell Deudraeth, Portmeiron
The 4-star Castell Deudraeth offers contemporary style in a Gothic castle. A 19th-century folly castle, it retains all period features but with more modern furnishings.
Enjoy a delicious meal in the Brasserie that overlooks the mountains of Meirionnydd to the south and the formal Victorian gardens to the west. Or sit back and relax with a drink in the Lounge Bar.
Mold Tower, Flintshire
A 15th-century Grade I listed building, Tower is set in its own parkland and hidden from the road and world. A unique historic house that provides old fashioned hospitality without forgetting modern comforts.
Bursting with ancient elegance, the Tower offers bed and breakfast accommodation in a magnificent castle setting.
Ruthin Castle, Ruthin
A beautiful retreat set in acres of parkland, Ruthin Castle is a majestic castle that holds a truly authentic feel. Enjoy luxurious beds, exquisite dining and wonderful views of the gardens.
You can unwind in the newly refurbished Bazaar Spa, or go for a hike in the beautiful surrounds of North Wales. Keep an eye out for one of the many resident peacocks which roam the parklands around the castle.
Do you have any recommendations for amazing castle stays in the UK? Leave a comment on get in touch on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter! You may also like:
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