Have you ever dreamt of spending the night in one of the best castle hotels in England? There are some amazing castles hotels in England, where you can sleep and eat where the Kings and Queens of England once did or image yourself as the princess from one of your favourite childhood fairytales.
If you’re considering one of the many castles stays in England, but can’t decide which one, then you’ll love this guide. In this guide, I take you through 22 of some of the very best castle hotels England offers so you can find the perfect hotel to live out your fairytale dream. This guide includes all the essential information such as location, onsite facilities, as well as a price guide.
Let’s get to it and find you one of the most beautiful castles to stay in England.
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20 of the Best Castle Hotels England
1. Appleby Castle Hotel
Appleby Castle has been held by the Kings of England and Scotland and is one of the few remaining Norman castles. With its dramatic architecture and gorgeous views, it is one of the most beautiful castles in the North of England and one of the perfect luxury castle hotels in England for a romantic getaway.
Located deep in the heart of the Eden Valley, the castle is located just 15 miles from the English Lake District and 22 miles from Windermere. The Appleby golf course is also less than a mile away.
The castle has 12 bedrooms for guests to stay in with each room containing beautiful old period features and antique furniture. Most rooms can accommodate up to two adults with some rooms able to accommodate an entire family. Some rooms have their own ensuites while others have access to shared bathroom facilities. All rooms feature tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi.
There is also the option of staying in one of the three self-catering cottages on-site, each equipped with log burners, Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen. The cottages can sleep up to six people.
On-site, guests can join daily history tours of the castle as well as make use of the great hall, games room and tennis court. You’re also welcome to go fishing in the nearby Eden River which is perfect for catching Salmon, Trout, and Grayling. And don’t miss dinner in the 15th-century dining room, a private dinner can also be arranged.
The Appleby Castle Hotel is one of the beautiful old castles you can stay in England, which is perfect for a romantic weekend away or spending time with the family.
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2. Langley Castle Hotel
Built in 1350, the Langley Castle Hotel is a fortified castle set among a 12-acre woodland estate. The castle was built during the reign of Edward III and has 7-foot-thick walls and stunning views across the Northumbrian Valley.
The castle is located in Allendale Town, with Newcastle city centre just 40 minutes’ drive away. The historic Hadrian’s Wall is also just 8kms away, which is perfect for those romantic walks with your loved one.
There are 9 rooms located within the castle as well as an additional 18 rooms in the castle grounds. All rooms have Wi-Fi, TV, private bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities and air conditioning. The rooms within the castle have beautiful four-poster beds and window seats looking out across the hotel grounds, with some rooms also including sunken baths, fireplaces. The rooms located in the castle grounds are great for families as some rooms have a separate lounge room and these rooms provide great views of the castle.
During your stay be sure to take the free tour of the castle where you will learn more about its history. Onsite there is also a restaurant which offers a fine dining experience as well as a traditional afternoon tea.
For anyone who has ever dreamed of staying in a castle fit for a fairytale, the Langley Castle Hotel is the perfect place.
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3. Lumley Castle
If you thought to stay in a castle was only for those with deep pockets– think again. Lumley Castle is surprisingly cheap, given how gorgeous it is. This 14th-century medieval castle features thick brick walls and symmetrical battlement towers and is furnished in rich, old English style amongst stone pillars full of history and nobility, you will feel like a commoner no more!
Located in Durham, not too far from Newcastle and close to the County Durham Cricket Ground, it is surrounded by lush and impressive parklands for you to take an afternoon leisurely stroll before you head back to the Castle.
The hotel proudly accommodates 74 luxurious ensuite rooms all with a large double bed, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi all in your own little slice of elegance (if only for one night)!
The Black Knight Restaurant in the castle serves delicious three-course set menu meals for dinner and an amazing breakfast each morning. It is also the first castle in the UK to have its very own Escape Room experience. Exactly like the classic board game Cluedo, you are taken back in time to the castles very own infamous story and haunting by Lily of Lumley. A great way to spend your evening. If that’s not your scene, take in a cricket match at the local cricket grounds before returning to your three-course feast.
So for those wanting to stay at a castle in England fit for royalty, the Lumley Castle is a great option to consider.
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4. Hazlewood Castle & Spa
Hazlewood Castle has an impressive story, even being mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086. The castle was previously a monastery and retreat and was transformed into a home in 1290 by Sir William Vavasour.
Situated within minutes from the City of York and Leeds, the castle is nestled amongst 77 acres of beautiful parkland and landscaped gardens. The castle has been restored and renovated to provide modern conveniences without denying the castle’s unique charm and character.
The hotel consists of 32 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, and all have been created in their own unique way. Nine of the rooms are located the main castle, 12 in the picturesque courtyard and the remaining rooms in St Leonard’s which is just off the library. All rooms are heated and provide free Wi-Fi, as well as tea and coffee making facilities and private bathrooms.
The onsite Vavasour Restaurant serves British, and European A la carte meals and even serves afternoon tea. If you’re after a more casual experience, the hotel also offers its Woodland Venue complete with glamping tents, wood-fired pizza, and BBQ buffet experience.
There are so many different options to choose from at Hazlewood Castle and so many different areas to explore. A great option if you’re looking for a little modern entertainment as well as history.
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5. Bickleigh Castle
Said to be the oldest building in Devon, Bickleigh Castle was built only 30 years after the Normans landed in Britain. The castle sits on the banks of the Exe River, just 20 minutes from Tiverton and has 60 acres for guests to explore. Five of these acres are landscaped gardens and fishponds which have been created from the remnants of the original Norman moat.
These days this romantic and historical Castle is primarily used as a wedding venue; however, holiday guests are more than welcome to stay. There are 15 bedrooms on-site with a range of configurations, including double rooms and rooms able to accommodate families too. All room types have been individually and uniquely furnished in vintage style all coming with their own private bathrooms.
With the river running through the grounds of the Bickleigh Castle, fishing is a popular activity while staying here. Also, make sure you do the free castle tour too.
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6. Pentillie Castle
This gorgeous 17th-century Georgian mansion is located on the banks of the Tamar River, on the border between Devon and Cornwall. The castle sits on 2000 acres, and each of the luxurious guest rooms has amazing views of the woodland gardens.
The castle has nine luxury en-suite bedrooms all designed and decorated with an emphasis on comfort. Each room accommodates two guests and includes a large king-size bed, a flat-screen TV and DVD player, tea and coffee making facilities and crisp white linen. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the castle.
The castle has several rooms for guests to enjoy and relax. Rooms include the large Drawing Room with open fire, a smaller Morning Room with TV and open fire. Other facilities on-site include an outdoor heated swimming pool, a games room with billiards, tennis, and dartboard, garden games including croquet, boules and giant Jenga.
The castle is just 20-minutes from the centre of Saltash, where you will find numerous restaurants and cafés. Formal dinners at the castle are available on request, and the DIY Suppers are a great hit as you choose which home-made dish you would like, and all you need to do is heat it up when you are ready.
Activities that can be arranged by castle staff include fishing trips, 4 x 4 driving through the estate, horse-riding on the moors, nights out at Plymouth’s Theatre Royal or the outdoor Minack Theatre on the cliffs at Porthcurno.
You will appreciate every little detail that the staff at Pentillie Castle have arranged for their guests, so they can experience the elegance and unique history that Pentillie Castle offers. This is the perfect place for those looking for one of the 5-star castle hotels England offers.
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7. Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth
In 1925, the Portmeirion Village was built by Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis in the style of an old Italian coastal village. The village is located on a private peninsula, just south of the coastal village of Porthmadog and overlooks the beautiful Dywryd Estuary. The village is home to the Castel Deudraeth, hotels, various historic cottages as well as a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
While Portmeirion Village is popular for day-trippers, for those who wish to stay a little longer there are a few accommodation options. Guests can choose to stay at the flagship Portmeirion Hotel, the Castell Deudraeth, Village Rooms or if you have a little more time to relax and unwind, there are 12 individually style self-catering cottages in the surrounding space of Portmeirion.
Castell Deudraeth is a 4-star hotel with 11 large rooms for guests. Each of the rooms includes a private bathroom, TV, DVD, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities and an open flame gas fire. Guests of Castel Deudraeth receive free entry into Portmeirion Village, complimentary transportation from the local train and bus station and use of the heated swimming pool.
There are plenty of things to do in Portmeirion Village during your stay. Guests can explore the village’s architectural heritage and sub-tropical gardens, get a massage, eat at one of the many award-winning restaurants and cafes or grab one of the authentic Italian style gelati’s.
Whether you come for the day or spend a few nights, a visit to the unique Portmeirion Village is well worth it.
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8. Swinton Park Castle
Once owned by the Cunliffe-Lister family, Swinton Park Castle is a gorgeous 18th-Century privately owned estate set on 20, 000-acres of parklands which feature lakes and gardens. The castle is also just a three-minute drive to the little market town of Masham where you can explore the history of the area including its ancient monuments and buildings.
Among the vast castle grounds, guests can explore rivers, the moors, the beautiful countryside and the Bird of Prey Centre. Other on-site facilities for guests include a cooking school, Day Spa, hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms, sauna, and an outdoor swimming pool. There are also two restaurants on-site.
On-site there are 32 luxury bedrooms all beautifully decorated. Each of the rooms can accommodate up to two guests and include an ensuite, tea and coffee making facilities, flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi.
The Swinton Park Castle is an excellent choice for those wanting a little luxury and a vacation full of beauty treatments, massages and long walks in the beautiful countryside.
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9. Roch Castle
Roch Castle dates back to the 12th-Century and has in the past been the home of various conquerors and courtesans. The location is dramatic, with the castle being situated high on top of a rocky outcrop providing panoramic views across St Brides Bay. The castle is only 30 minutes from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
There are just six bedrooms at Roch Castle, each with spectacular views of the coast and of the countryside. Each room is furnished to the highest standard and includes an ensuite bathroom, TV, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities and contemporary furnishings to relax and unwind. Complimentary transportation is also provided to Blas Restaurant at their sister Hotel.
During your stay, take in the local scenery and walks like the Celtic Trail or head out to the coast and discover the local landmarks of St Brides Bay, Preseli Hills and the St Davids Peninsula.
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10. Holiday Cottages at Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is approximately 7 miles east of Maidstone and just one hour from London on the M20 motorway. The Castle has been one of England’s top tourist destinations since 1978 and takes in approximately 600,000 visitors each year.
While many visitors to Leeds Castle just come for the day, with accommodation provided on the grounds in the Stable Courtyard, now you can stay as long as you like. The Stable Courtyard provides guests with traditional bedrooms, each including a private bathroom, TV, Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities. The bedrooms also have lovely views looking out over the lake, the gardens, or the parkland estate of Leeds Castle.
During your stay, you will receive free entry into the Leeds Castle, said to be the “loveliest castle in the world.” There are also vast walking paths and gardens to explore, or for something different you could take a Segway tour of the 500 acres of the castle grounds. Other activities include free flying falconry displays, special castle tours, many different playgrounds for kids, the Birds of Prey Centre, Punting on the Moat, the Black Swan Ferry, the list just goes on and on.
If you are looking for the experience of being amongst it all, with the sensational background of Leeds Castle, the Stable Courtyard is a great way to be on the doorstep of amazing history.
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11. Augill Castle
Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines Area, Augill Castle is a boutique and qirky castle hotel built in the 1840s by John Bagot Pearson to outdo his younger sibling. The castle is lovely, complete with turrets, castellated towers, ornate lattice windows and a long gravel drive.
The castle has 17 bedrooms, each decorated differently from romantic doubles to self-contained cottages perfect for families. Whichever room type you choose, expect elaborate curtains, four-poster beds, snazzy wallpaper and wall hangings. All rooms include a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities and a flat-screen TV with DVD player.
Whether you bring the whole family or keep it as a luxury, romantic weekend away, there is plenty for you to do at the castle to spend your days. The Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the Northumbrian National Park are at your doorstep and The Pennines offer ancient footpaths for you to wander through and admire the scenery.
Afternoon teas are available daily or watch a movie in the castles 12-seat cinema. Nearby you can have a round of golf, go horse riding or play tennis, or just relax in the castle gardens. Enjoy the amazing Italian dining, which serves meals five nights a week or relax in the Great British Bar. Kids can enjoy the extensive library filled with books and toys or have a jump and play in the playground.
This is a beautiful castle with so much to explore and admire. Whether it be a romantic getaway for two or a weekend escape with the kids in tow, there is plenty to see and do at Augill Castle.
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12. Willersley Castle
Situated on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Willersley Castle is a Georgian style castle which was built in 1790 by the brilliant industrialist Sir Richard Arkwright. The castle is set on 60-acres of rich meadows and has a wonderful position overlooking the River Derwent.
In total, the hotel can accommodate up to 86 guests. Each of the rooms can accommodate between one to two guests and all include tea and coffee making facilities and a TV. Most of the rooms come with a private bathroom ensuite and Wi-Fi.
Activities are plenty including fishing, boules, a 9-hole putting green, table tennis, a music room, and drawing-room. There is also a 15 m heated indoor swimming pool and a restaurant onsite. The castle is also just a short walk to the historic village of Cromford or the Victorian spa town of Matlock Bath.
Whether you come to Willersley Castle to enjoy the facilities at the castle or as a base to explore the local area, this is a gorgeous castle to stay in and all at a reasonably inexpensive price.
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13. Leasowe Castle
The Leasowe Castle is a romantic 16-century castle that has amazing views across the Wirral coastline and the Leasowe Golf Course. The castle was built in 1592 by Ferdinand, 5th Earl of Derby, second heir to the English throne.
All the rooms at the castle have been furnished in modern, contemporary décor. Each room includes tea and coffee making facilities, flat-screen TV, ensuite bathroom and free Wi-Fi. Most rooms accommodate up to two adults but there are family rooms as well. For those who prefer the more traditional style rooms be sure to book into one of the luxury four poster rooms which have been decorated with original 16th-century pieces.
There are also plenty of things to do in and around Leasowe Castle. Guests can enjoy live entertainment at the bar during the evenings, play a round of golf or hiking around the countryside. The castle is also well positioned for exploring the local areas of Liverpool, Chester and the beautiful Cheshire Countryside.
Whether you’re looking for a modern room or a room fit for a king or queen, the Leasowe Castle has something for everyone. Plus, with its position to nearby towns, it’s the perfect spot for exploring the local areas.
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14. Dalston Hall Hotel
Dalston Hall is a grand Country House built in c. 1500 that has undergone extensive refurbishments since 1897, creating the magnificent mansion that it is today. It is situated amid acres of private woodland and glorious gardens on the northern edge of the Lake District, surrounded by a golf course.
Dalston Hall Hotel provides intimate accommodation with just 13 bedrooms. There are three room categories to choose from – classic, superior and junior suites. Regardless of which type of room you choose, all rooms include an ensuite bathroom, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi.
Onsite guests can dine at the restaurant, which serves British cuisine for breakfast and dinner. The castle also has a full-service bar, billiards room, a golf course, and beautiful gardens to explore.
Dalston Hall is located just ten minutes from the city centre of Carlisle and approximately 20-minutes from Scotland. This is a luxury hotel in beautifully presented and lavishly furnished bedrooms and suites.
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15. Cave Castle Hotel
Cave Castle Hotel and Country Club is a privately-owned hotel surrounded by 150 acres of landscaped gardens and private woodland. This 350-year old stone Victoria Manor features all its original historic charm and is the perfect secluded, country retreat for a getaway from the real world.
With continuous refurbishments and additions to this hotel, it has become an unrivalled combination of extensive leisure and spa facilities. On-site guests can enjoy the 18-hole golf course, extensive gardens, spa and wellness centre, indoor swimming pool, gym, or just go hiking and exploring the castle. The hotel also features a formal, wood-panelled restaurant and a more casual bistro.
The hotel boasts 71 bedrooms each decorated with old-world style. Each room includes an ensuite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms also have beautiful four-poster beds.
The Cave Castle Hotel is a wonderful place to come with loved ones or a group of friends to unwind, relax and simply enjoy one another’s company.
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16. Amberley Castle
This stunning, 900-year-old West Sussex Castle offers luxury accommodation within its 12 acres of magnificent, historical, grounds. The castle is situated just a 10-minute walk from the picturesque village of Amberley.
There are 19 beautifully and luxuriously appointed bedrooms each with contemporary décor and featuring period details. Every room includes a private bathroom, TV, tea, and coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi and rooms have amazing views of the castle gardens and surrounds. If you’re after a more authentic experience, splash out for one of the Premier Deluxe Rooms which boast original features, four-poster bed, antique furnishings, and an original fireplace.
During your stay at Amberley Castle, there is a wide range of activities to spend your days. The 18-hole putting course is set in impressive gardens which feature a gorgeous water cascade, two lakes and brilliant views of the South Downs. The castle also features a tennis court, restaurant and guests are invited to relax and unwind in their drawing rooms and lounges amongst the antique grandeur and stories.
The Amberley Castle Hotel is essential for anyone wanting a romantic and special break away, or anyone wanting to impress. From the time you enter through the portcullis gates, you will be indulged in medieval elegance and royal extravagance.
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17. Hever Castle Luxury Bed and Breakfast
Hever Castle Luxury Bed and Breakfast is a 13th-century double moated castle and was the original childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife. It is situated in the stunning Kent countryside surrounded by 125 acres of formal gardens bordered by 12-foot high stone walls.
The castle is a tourist attraction in itself and popular with day-trippers. Tourists can explore the castle rooms which contain period furniture, tapestries, and a collection of Tudor paintings as well as two prayer books signed by Anne Boleyn herself. However, for those staying on-site, there is plenty to explore. Amenities on-site include a tennis court, a golf course, a bar and lounge, a day spa, and a children’s playground.
For guests choosing to stay the night, there are 28 luxury bedrooms in the Astor Wing and the Anne Boleyn Wing which make up the Hever Castle’s Bed and Breakfast. Both wings are in the Edwardian and Tudor style and are beautifully decorated with deep sofa’s, rich and splendid furnishings. Each room includes a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.
With the castle being located only 30 miles from London, it is easy to access. Feel free to drive your own vehicle out here or take the train which is just as easy.
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18. Castle Hotel at Taunton
Located in the heart of Somerset, the Castle Hotel at Taunton was once a Norman fortress and has been a luxury hotel for the past 60 years. The main building today was once known as Clarke’s Hotel which was built in the late 18th century.
There are 44 bedrooms in the Castle which have been individually decorated and vary in their style and size. All the bedrooms include a modern private bathroom, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, a flat-screen TV and there are interconnecting rooms available for families.
Onsite the castle has two restaurants as well as a bar. For those that want to explore the local area, the Castle is conveniently situated in Taunton, just a 10-minute drive from Hestercombe Gardens and the Exmoor National Park is a 20-minute drive away.
With its unrivalled hospitality and gorgeous location, the Castle Hotel at Taunton is the perfect place for a getaway for couples, families or groups of friends wishing to explore England’s West Country.
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19. Thornbury Castle
Located in South Gloucestershire, Thornbury Castle is the only Tudor Castle in England approved to be opened as a hotel. Built in the 1500s, over the centuries the castle has housed kings, queens and dukes and was even once owned by Henry VIII. In fact, Henry VIII was a guest here on his honeymoon with Anne Boleyn.
There are 28 bedrooms in Thornbury Castle which provide Tudor style elegance. Many of the rooms feature four-poster beds, while all rooms feature mod cons such as free Wi-Fi, a luxurious ensuite, TV, tea and coffee making facilities and gorgeous furnishings fit for a King and a Queen.
During your stay at Thornbury Castle, there is plenty to do. Dine in the Dungeon Dining Room and afterwards warm your toes in the magnificent open fireplaces. During the day indulge in spa treatments, have a go at archery or croquet or even learn the basics of falconry.
Secluded and peaceful, Thornbury Castle is perfectly placed near the Cotswold’s and Welsh Borders in Thornbury. For history buffs or those just after a few days of luxury and relaxation, a few nights at Thornbury Castle is perfect.
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You might also be interested in more castles in Gloucestershire.
20. Bovey Castle
Bovey Castle is a five-star hotel situated in the heart of the Dartmoor National Park and sits high on a 275-acre estate surrounded by amazing national park views and lush wooded hills. The Castle was built in 1907 for the second Viscount Hambleden and has been operating as a hotel since 1930.
The Castle features 60 individually decorated bedrooms in contemporary style which all have a wonderful view of the Edwardian gardens, the golf course or the River Bovey. Each of the rooms includes tea and coffee making facilities, ensuite, flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi. For families or large groups, there is even a stunning three-bedroom self-contained lodge on the castle grounds.
There is plenty to do at Bovey Castle. Guests can spend their days exploring the national park and unspoiled gardens or take part in the falconry displays, cocktail masterclasses, clay pigeon shooting or relax and unwind in the Elan Spa. Onsite there is also a heated indoor swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course and two restaurants.
Whether you’re on the search for a luxurious romantic escape or an active family break the Bovey Castle provides an unrivalled destination which is the perfect place for all types of travellers.