Top 10 castle hotels in the UK
Ready to live like royalty? Dreaming of a unique getaway? Perhaps a castle hotel is what you're looking for! Grand halls, landscaped gardens, centuries-old walls, luxury spas, fine dining — get ready to live like a true monarch, if only for the weekend, and experience the magic of British history with a touch of modern luxury. Find a perfect place to stay in our list of the best castle hotels in the UK.
Leeds Castle, Kent
What is it?
Historic castle with over 900 years of history, featuring a moat and magnificent gardens.
Why should you go?
Nestled on a green island in the middle of a lake in the picturesque county of Kent, Leeds Castle is a true gem. Dubbed the "loveliest castle in the world" by historian Lord Conway, it boasts over 900 years of history, having been home to kings and queens, including King Edward I and Catherine of Aragon.
In addition to exquisite architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, the castle offers a range of luxurious accommodation options that include a bed and breakfast, glamping, holiday cottages, and a manor house escape. Other facilities include a maze, a birds of prey center, and playgrounds. Head over to the Castle View Restaurant for dinner in a relaxed atmosphere.
Specialization
History + lake
Perfect for
Romantic getaways, solo stays, or family trips - pretty much any kind of vacation!
Historic castle with over 900 years of history, featuring a moat and magnificent gardens.
Why should you go?
Nestled on a green island in the middle of a lake in the picturesque county of Kent, Leeds Castle is a true gem. Dubbed the "loveliest castle in the world" by historian Lord Conway, it boasts over 900 years of history, having been home to kings and queens, including King Edward I and Catherine of Aragon.
In addition to exquisite architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, the castle offers a range of luxurious accommodation options that include a bed and breakfast, glamping, holiday cottages, and a manor house escape. Other facilities include a maze, a birds of prey center, and playgrounds. Head over to the Castle View Restaurant for dinner in a relaxed atmosphere.
Specialization
History + lake
Perfect for
Romantic getaways, solo stays, or family trips - pretty much any kind of vacation!
Amberley Castle, West Sussex
What is it?
A charming 12th-century castle with luxury rooms and a great restaurant.
Why should you go?
Right at the doorstep of the South Downs National Park, a couple hours' ride from London, this luxury Sussex countryside hotel has 12 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. On the grounds, you will discover tennis courts, an 18-hole putting green and croquet lawn, flowerbeds and Koi carp ponds, and even a resident white peacock.
The castle itself is enclosed by a medieval curtain wall with a working portcullis. The building retains much of its original decorations, from suits of armor to lancet windows. It offers 19 luxurious guest rooms, each individually decorated. The hotel's elegant restaurant serves classic French cuisine in dining rooms with an open fireplace.
Specialization
Architecture + fine dining
Perfect for
Weddings and special occasions
A charming 12th-century castle with luxury rooms and a great restaurant.
Why should you go?
Right at the doorstep of the South Downs National Park, a couple hours' ride from London, this luxury Sussex countryside hotel has 12 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. On the grounds, you will discover tennis courts, an 18-hole putting green and croquet lawn, flowerbeds and Koi carp ponds, and even a resident white peacock.
The castle itself is enclosed by a medieval curtain wall with a working portcullis. The building retains much of its original decorations, from suits of armor to lancet windows. It offers 19 luxurious guest rooms, each individually decorated. The hotel's elegant restaurant serves classic French cuisine in dining rooms with an open fireplace.
Specialization
Architecture + fine dining
Perfect for
Weddings and special occasions
@castles_and_abbeys
Related tours:
Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire
What is it?
A Tudor castle with a lot of history to it, nestled in the heart of the Cotswold countryside.
Why should you go?
This castle dates back to the 16th century, and it is most famous for hosting Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn in 1535 — you can even book the same room! The 27 bedrooms have been carefully restored, and the atmosphere combines historic charm and contemporary luxury.
The castle's surroundings boast stunning walled gardens, including a labyrinth. Various activities are available in the area to allow guests to delve deep into Tudor traditions: do you fancy archery, axe throwing, or falconry? The award-winning restaurant serves exquisite British-inspired fare using locally-sourced ingredients, including the produce from the kitchen garden: the six-course seasonal tasting menu is phenomenal.
Specialization
History + luxury
Perfect for
A luxury weekend getaway
A Tudor castle with a lot of history to it, nestled in the heart of the Cotswold countryside.
Why should you go?
This castle dates back to the 16th century, and it is most famous for hosting Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn in 1535 — you can even book the same room! The 27 bedrooms have been carefully restored, and the atmosphere combines historic charm and contemporary luxury.
The castle's surroundings boast stunning walled gardens, including a labyrinth. Various activities are available in the area to allow guests to delve deep into Tudor traditions: do you fancy archery, axe throwing, or falconry? The award-winning restaurant serves exquisite British-inspired fare using locally-sourced ingredients, including the produce from the kitchen garden: the six-course seasonal tasting menu is phenomenal.
Specialization
History + luxury
Perfect for
A luxury weekend getaway
@thornburycastle
Bovey Castle, Devon
What is it?
A deluxe countryside retreat set in the heart of Dartmoor National Park.
Why should you go?
Opened as a hotel and golf resort in 1930, Bovey Castle sits on the edge of the valley amidst the moors, overlooking the tranquil Edwardian gardens, the golf course, and the River Bovey. The hotel features 60 individually-designed luxurious bedrooms located throughout the historic manor and courtyard. Dining is a highlight of Bovey Castle, with options including one of the best grill restaurants in Devon.
Bovey Castle is more than a hotel: its golf course, designed both for beginners and seasoned players, features spectacular views and provides an unforgettable experience. There's also an impressive spa with a range of indulgent treatments, as well as an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. Other activities include archery, falconry, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, and our favorite — cider and sloe gin-making lessons in a rustic barn!
Specialization
Luxurious retreat + outdoor activities
Perfect for
Fans of grandeur
A deluxe countryside retreat set in the heart of Dartmoor National Park.
Why should you go?
Opened as a hotel and golf resort in 1930, Bovey Castle sits on the edge of the valley amidst the moors, overlooking the tranquil Edwardian gardens, the golf course, and the River Bovey. The hotel features 60 individually-designed luxurious bedrooms located throughout the historic manor and courtyard. Dining is a highlight of Bovey Castle, with options including one of the best grill restaurants in Devon.
Bovey Castle is more than a hotel: its golf course, designed both for beginners and seasoned players, features spectacular views and provides an unforgettable experience. There's also an impressive spa with a range of indulgent treatments, as well as an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. Other activities include archery, falconry, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, and our favorite — cider and sloe gin-making lessons in a rustic barn!
Specialization
Luxurious retreat + outdoor activities
Perfect for
Fans of grandeur
@katierrobertson
Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William, Highlands, Scotland
What is it?
An imposing and beautiful hotel set amongst the beautiful Scottish West Highlands scenery.
Why should you go?
Our list is not limited to castle hotels in England: Scotland is home to some of the most dramatic luxury castle hotels in the UK, and we are in awe of this baronial mansion. Inverlochy Castle is surrounded by the glens, lochs, and mountains of Scotland's Highlands and is backed by the majestic Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom. Queen Victoria stated that she had never seen "a lovelier or more romantic spot" after spending a week here in 1873.
It's not just about the scenery: Inverlochy Castle's Seasgair restaurant is the place to go for quality fine dining by Michel Roux Jr, a two Michelin-starred chef. Add to this 17 unique bedrooms and suites, and you've got yourself a holiday fit for a queen!
Specialization
Landscape + fine dining
Perfect for
Visitors who enjoy stunning landscapes and a bit of seclusion
An imposing and beautiful hotel set amongst the beautiful Scottish West Highlands scenery.
Why should you go?
Our list is not limited to castle hotels in England: Scotland is home to some of the most dramatic luxury castle hotels in the UK, and we are in awe of this baronial mansion. Inverlochy Castle is surrounded by the glens, lochs, and mountains of Scotland's Highlands and is backed by the majestic Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom. Queen Victoria stated that she had never seen "a lovelier or more romantic spot" after spending a week here in 1873.
It's not just about the scenery: Inverlochy Castle's Seasgair restaurant is the place to go for quality fine dining by Michel Roux Jr, a two Michelin-starred chef. Add to this 17 unique bedrooms and suites, and you've got yourself a holiday fit for a queen!
Specialization
Landscape + fine dining
Perfect for
Visitors who enjoy stunning landscapes and a bit of seclusion
@yourtraveldesigner
Château Rhianfa, Anglesey
What is it?
A French-style boutique hotel on the banks of the Menai Strait.
Why should you go?
Inspired by the castles of the Loire Valley, this 19th-century château-style hotel boasts a fabulous location on the Isle of Anglesey: you can soak in the marvelous views of the Menai Strait and Snowdonia Mountains across the picturesque gardens that surround the property. Its collection of 27 bedrooms of different sizes offers a range of options to relax while enjoying some of the finest views among all the UK castle hotels.
The local restaurant showcases the very best of Welsh cuisine for a unique dining experience. Wine tasting in the cozy and stylish Wine Cave is described as an absolute must, and the magnificent paneled banqueting hall is perfect for that very special celebration.
Specialization
Landscapes + architecture
Perfect for
A romantic escape
A French-style boutique hotel on the banks of the Menai Strait.
Why should you go?
Inspired by the castles of the Loire Valley, this 19th-century château-style hotel boasts a fabulous location on the Isle of Anglesey: you can soak in the marvelous views of the Menai Strait and Snowdonia Mountains across the picturesque gardens that surround the property. Its collection of 27 bedrooms of different sizes offers a range of options to relax while enjoying some of the finest views among all the UK castle hotels.
The local restaurant showcases the very best of Welsh cuisine for a unique dining experience. Wine tasting in the cozy and stylish Wine Cave is described as an absolute must, and the magnificent paneled banqueting hall is perfect for that very special celebration.
Specialization
Landscapes + architecture
Perfect for
A romantic escape
@rscottgreen_the_vivreiste
Ballygally Castle Hotel, Northern Ireland
What is it?
A 17th-century hotel overlooking the scenic Ballygally Bay.
Why should you go?
Sitting on the beautiful Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland, this Scottish baronial-style hotel dates back to 1625 and is the only 17th-century building used as a residence in Northern Ireland today. The place is steeped in history and is home to some ghosts of the past: there is even a "ghost room" in one of the turrets!
The castle has 54 tastefully decorated bedrooms with period furnishings and an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. The restaurant overlooks the sea, plus you can enjoy the traditional afternoon tea in the elegant lounge. The castle is conveniently placed for exploring the Causeway Coastal Route, Bushmills Distillery, Carrickfergus Castle, and Game of Thrones filming locations. Or just hang out on the beach nearby!
Specialization
Seaside + mystery
Perfect for
Quiet luxury aficionados and fans of ghost stories
A 17th-century hotel overlooking the scenic Ballygally Bay.
Why should you go?
Sitting on the beautiful Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland, this Scottish baronial-style hotel dates back to 1625 and is the only 17th-century building used as a residence in Northern Ireland today. The place is steeped in history and is home to some ghosts of the past: there is even a "ghost room" in one of the turrets!
The castle has 54 tastefully decorated bedrooms with period furnishings and an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. The restaurant overlooks the sea, plus you can enjoy the traditional afternoon tea in the elegant lounge. The castle is conveniently placed for exploring the Causeway Coastal Route, Bushmills Distillery, Carrickfergus Castle, and Game of Thrones filming locations. Or just hang out on the beach nearby!
Specialization
Seaside + mystery
Perfect for
Quiet luxury aficionados and fans of ghost stories
Swinton Park Hotel, Yorkshire Dales
What is it?
Upscale hotel based in a 17th-century ivy-covered castle amidst gorgeous landscapes.
Why should you go?
With its scenic ivy-clad towers, sweeping parkland, stone walls and field barns, moors, and river valleys, the setting of this castle is truly idyllic. The place feels like a luxurious yet warm and cozy English home, where comfort and grandeur meld seamlessly in each of the 42 rooms. Food is taken most seriously at the hotel, with its four-acre kitchen garden, award-winning restaurants, and a cookery school.
There's a range of traditional activities (including family-friendly ones), from cycling to clay-pigeon shooting, pony trekking, and falconry. The award-winning Country Club & Spa offers various treatments, relaxation in indoor and outdoor pools, and the thermal suite.
Specialization
Scenery + relaxation
Perfect for
Families with children
Upscale hotel based in a 17th-century ivy-covered castle amidst gorgeous landscapes.
Why should you go?
With its scenic ivy-clad towers, sweeping parkland, stone walls and field barns, moors, and river valleys, the setting of this castle is truly idyllic. The place feels like a luxurious yet warm and cozy English home, where comfort and grandeur meld seamlessly in each of the 42 rooms. Food is taken most seriously at the hotel, with its four-acre kitchen garden, award-winning restaurants, and a cookery school.
There's a range of traditional activities (including family-friendly ones), from cycling to clay-pigeon shooting, pony trekking, and falconry. The award-winning Country Club & Spa offers various treatments, relaxation in indoor and outdoor pools, and the thermal suite.
Specialization
Scenery + relaxation
Perfect for
Families with children
@amy_boyington
Related tours:
Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland
What is it?
A medieval castle hotel with original fortifications.
Why should you go?
Just a short drive from Hadrian's Wall, the 14th-century Langley Castle is one of the most historic castle hotels in the UK. Set in a woodland estate, the edifice boasts seven-foot thick walls and nine most splendid rooms with four-poster beds, set within the towers, plus 18 more rooms within the grounds — which are perfect for families. The hotel offers a range of kid-friendly activities, including history walks tailored for the little guests.
Location-wise, it's a great spot to explore Hadrian's Wall, coastal parts of Northumberland, or, if you feel like venturing a bit further, the Lake District.
Specialization
History + landscape
Perfect for
Fans of medieval architecture
A medieval castle hotel with original fortifications.
Why should you go?
Just a short drive from Hadrian's Wall, the 14th-century Langley Castle is one of the most historic castle hotels in the UK. Set in a woodland estate, the edifice boasts seven-foot thick walls and nine most splendid rooms with four-poster beds, set within the towers, plus 18 more rooms within the grounds — which are perfect for families. The hotel offers a range of kid-friendly activities, including history walks tailored for the little guests.
Location-wise, it's a great spot to explore Hadrian's Wall, coastal parts of Northumberland, or, if you feel like venturing a bit further, the Lake District.
Specialization
History + landscape
Perfect for
Fans of medieval architecture
@variationghost
Augill Castle, Cumbria
What is it?
19th-century boutique hotel in a castle dedicated to intimacy and comfort.
Why should you go?
Sitting between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, this castle hotel looks positively quirky with its towers, turrets, and ornate windows. The interior is far from minimalistic: the 13 bedrooms are furnished with an eclectic mix of antique furniture and contemporary pieces. There are vibrant colors, claw-footed baths, and the general sense of friendly chaos — albeit a luxurious and comfortable one!
Dining here is a great experience, with most of the ingredients sourced locally - plus, there is a real British bar showcasing the best of British artisan distillers, brewers, and fermentors. The hotel is popular with family get-togethers and offers a variety of family-oriented activities.
Specialization
Family-friendly recreation
Perfect for
A small-scale, intimate party and quality time with the loved ones
19th-century boutique hotel in a castle dedicated to intimacy and comfort.
Why should you go?
Sitting between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, this castle hotel looks positively quirky with its towers, turrets, and ornate windows. The interior is far from minimalistic: the 13 bedrooms are furnished with an eclectic mix of antique furniture and contemporary pieces. There are vibrant colors, claw-footed baths, and the general sense of friendly chaos — albeit a luxurious and comfortable one!
Dining here is a great experience, with most of the ingredients sourced locally - plus, there is a real British bar showcasing the best of British artisan distillers, brewers, and fermentors. The hotel is popular with family get-togethers and offers a variety of family-oriented activities.
Specialization
Family-friendly recreation
Perfect for
A small-scale, intimate party and quality time with the loved ones
@augillcastle
FAQ
- 1What are the best castle hotels in the UK for families?
- Swinton Park Hotel, Yorkshire Dales
- Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland
- Augill Castle, Cumbria
- Leeds Castle, Kent
- Thornbury Castle Hotel, Gloucestershire
- Dalhousie Castle, Cockpen, Midlothian, Scotland
- Star Castle Hotel, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall, England
- 2What are the most luxurious castle hotels in England?
- Hever Castle, Kent
- Amberley Castle, West Sussex
- Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William, Highlands, Scotland
- Cliveden House, Berkshire
- Thornbury Castle Hotel, Gloucestershire
- Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland
- Bovey Castle, Devon
- 3What are the best castle hotels for couples?
- Château Rhianfa, Anglesey
- Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William, Highlands, Scotland
- Leeds Castle, Kent
- Balfour Castle, Orkney
- Tulloch Castle Hotel, Dingwall
- Dornoch Castle Hotel, Dornoch
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