Finding the perfect luxury vacation can be challenging. Yet there are some stunning luxury castle hotels in Britain that promise an unforgettable stay. Our guide explores iconic spots like Thornbury Castle, Hever Castle, and Inverlochy Castle to elevate your travel plans.
Get ready to explore these unique British properties!
Iconic Castle Hotels in England
Exploring the best castle hotels in the UK leads us straight into the charming countryside of England, where history and luxury blend seamlessly. Thornbury Castle invites guests to step back in time, offering accommodation that once hosted King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. This remarkable destination combines ancient architecture with modern amenities, ensuring a stay fit for royalty.
Venturing to West Sussex, Amberley Castle proudly iencapsulates over 900 years of British history within its walls. Here, visitors can enjoy tennis courts and fine dining amidst an atmosphere that whispers tales of yesteryears.
Meanwhile, Langley Castle provides breathtaking views from unique castle rooms, making it an ideal spot for those looking to savor every moment of their luxurious escape. Each castle hotel offers a distinct experience steeped in history while delivering all the comfort of 5-star accommodation.
1. Thornbury Castle
Thornbury Castle invites guests to step back in time and immerse themselves in England’s rich history. This unique luxury hotel merges medieval charm with contemporary amenities, offering a stay unlike any other.
The only Tudor castle hotel in England, Thornbury was built in 1511 for Edward Stafford. King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here for 10 days in 1535. We stayed in Queen Mary I’s bedchamber, which has views of the beautiful gardens.
Guests can explore the wood-panelled ground floor rooms, admire suits of armour, and sleep in stunning four-poster beds. Yet, beyond its historical allure, this Relais & Châteaux hotel ensures a luxurious experience with exquisite dining options that cater to every taste.
The castle’s location boasts not just architectural grandeur but also opens doors to various outdoor activities such as archery. Thornbury Castle stands out as a premier choice among England’s castle hotels.
2. Hever Castle & Gardens
Hever Castle, dating back to the 1300s, stands out as a jewel among England’s luxury castle hotels. Best known as Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, this castle combines medieval grandeur with modern elegance.
Guests can explore battlements and admire suits of armour or rest in rooms equipped with majestic four-poster beds. Visitors are treated to an immersive historical experience complemented by contemporary comforts and exquisite dining options.
Located in the picturesque county of Kent, Hever Castle provides an opportunity to step into a rich tapestry of British history and architecture.
This castle hotel ensures that every guest experiences sumptuous amenities set within an environment that has retained its ancient charm and significance.
3. Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle, a medieval stronghold that is actually located in Kent, is a great place to stay. The property boasts castle rooms, Maiden Tower rooms, lakeside lodges, self-catered cottages, and medieval glamping tents in 500 acres of parkland and gardens. The Castle View Restaurant offers fine dining experiences.
All stays include complimentary daytime entry to the Castle (depending on availability) as well as out of hours access to the grounds. Guests can enjoy the Birds of Prey Centre and Falconry Displays on the grounds.
Kids will make a beeline for the Knights’ Stronghold Playground, the Castle Kids Obstacle Course, the Maze and Grotto and Squires’ Courtyard Playground.
4. Amberley Castle
Amberley Castle is a historic gem that dates back to the 12th century. The castle boasts 19 beautiful rooms decorated with antiques.
Guests have the opportunity to indulge in fine dining at the Queen’s Room Restaurant with its medieval barrel-vaulted ceiling. Amberley Castle offers a range of outdoor activities and extends its hospitality to all kinds of visitors seeking a luxurious stay amidst ancient architecture and modern amenities.
Recorded in the Doomsday Book, this remarkable castle ensures an unforgettable experience for those seeking a family-owned historical retreat.
5. Bovey Castle
Bovey Castle, located in Dartmoor National Park, features stunning period details and provides a luxurious 5-star castle experience. The castle dates back to the early 20th century and boasts a rich history intertwined with modern amenities.
Guests can indulge in exclusive activities, such as golfing and falconry, while enjoying fine dining at the award-winning Great Western Grill. Bovey Castle offers an exceptional stay that seamlessly combines ancient architecture with contemporary comforts, making it a sought-after destination for luxury travelers.
6. Langley Castle
Langley Castle in Northumberland, England, is steeped in medieval history and exudes a captivating atmosphere with its exposed-stone walls, wood paneling, and gilt-framed portraits.
This 14th century castle was built by a knight named Thomas de Lucy in 1350. It provides an authentic experience for travelers seeking a medieval castle hotel stay.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich ambiance of the castle rooms while enjoying a full program of events during their stay. Don’t miss the daily Battlements tour.
7. Augill Castle
This stunning neo-gothic castle in Cumbria, England offers a one-of-a-kind luxury stay. With its grand-scale rooms and country house style furnishings, Augill Castle provides guests with an authentic medieval experience combined with modern comforts.
The Gothic towers, original staircases, and four-poster beds add to the charm of this traveller-rated 5 star manor house hotel. This family-friendly accommodation boasts an on-site restaurant and bar for a truly elegant experience that ranks it among some of the best Northern England castle stays.
8. Warwick Castle Hotel
Transitioning from Augill Castle, we arrive at Warwick Castle Hotel. This exclusive property near Stratford-upon-Avon offers a truly unique experience with a variety of accommodation for a medieval stay in England.
Choose from Woodland Lodges, medieval style Glamping Tents, Tower Suites and the new 60 room Warwick Castle Hotel which is due to open on 22 July.
The castle’s architecture spans 600 years of English history and boasts a stunning Great Hall and State Rooms. Visitors can explore the grounds and watch spectacular jousting and falconry shows.
9. Swinton Park Hotel
Swinton Park Hotel is a Grade II listed castle in North Yorkshire, set in 200 acres of parkland. Owned by the same family since 1880, this is the ancestral seat of the Earl of Swinton.
However this 31-bedroom luxury castle hotel is far from stuffy. There’s a big focus on sustainability, with an eco-friendly biomass boiler and a tree planted for every stay.
There’s a relaxing spa, a wild swimming lake and a great choice of dining options.
10. Lumley Castle
Lumley Castle, located in Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham, England, has a history that spans over 600 years. With luxurious and uniquely designed bedrooms, the castle offers an authentic medieval ambiance.
The rooms exude a rich and warm atmosphere with plenty of historical charm. Why not book a stay to coincide with one of the castle’s special events, such as their Elizabethan Banquets or Murder Mystery Dinners. There’s also an Escape Room experience that’s a lot of fun.
The Knights Restaurant and the Library Bar are popular with residents and locals alike. Private dining is also available for up to 16 guests.
