Fairytale Getaways in Castle Hotels

Here's our pick of some of the best castle getaways the UK has to offer, in which you can live happily ever after... or for a weekend at least.

Jayne Robinson

Last updated: 23rd Apr 2012

Come on now. In all honesty, which one of us has never dreamed of our own castle?

There's something about these striking buildings that brings out the fairytale in all of us; snuggling in front of roaring fires, sleeping in four poster beds in romantic turrets, pouring boiling oil from the battlements... ok, maybe not that last one. But if you'd like to release your inner Knight Errant or Medieval Princess for a few days, then a luxurious, gothic and ever so romantic castle getaway is the place to do it.

Thanks to Britain's rich and turbulent history, our Sceptred Isle is scattered with original and replica castles, many of which have now been converted into luxurious hotels, full of drama and romance.

Here's our pick of some of the best castle getaways the UK has to offer, in which you can live happily ever after... or for a weekend at least. 
 
Lumley Castle Hotel in County Durham

Located in the heart of romantic County Durham, Lumley Castle is a magnificent monument to a bygone age of chivalry and honour that now boasts 74 luxurious en-suite bedchambers and the magnificent Black Knight restaurant. Standing proud for more than 600 years, the magnificent spectacle of Lumley Castle dominates the County Durham landscape, and is surrounded by beautiful parklands overlooking the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground.The hotel is ideally situated to explore the North East of England and more...

Standard double rooms from £125 per night.

Barcaldine Castle in Paisley
 
Barcaldine Castle offers a truly unique experience. If you are looking for luxurious, romantic accommodation, nowhere else on the West Coast of Scotland parallels Barcaldine. This historic Scottish Castle, built in the 16th century, is set on the shores of Loch Creren and enjoys breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains of Glencoe in early Spring to the beautiful golden colours of Autumn. The sumptuous interiors are carefully with indulgence in mind, and all rooms are individual in shape, size and design, with a king size bed, luxury bedlinen and pure new wool throws.

Luxury double rooms from £195 per night.

Tulloch Castle in Dingwall
 
Tulloch Castle dates from the 12th Century, when first the Bains and later the Clan Davidson laid claim to its lands. Like its lively history, the Castle's fortunes have changed many times. Now, it is once again a magnificent fortress, with a ready welcome for travellers. The castle boasts countless period features including the 250-year old panelled Great Hall, magnificent hallways with painstakingly restored original fireplaces and ceilings, and 20 en-suite well appointed bedrooms all with their own unique character and charm.

Standard double rooms from £160 per night.

Peckforton Castle in Tarporley
 
Peckforton Castle (pictured) sits boldly on a hill overlooking the picturesque Cheshire countryside and is a spectacular medieval style castle built in the mid 19th century, situated in beautiful landscaped gardens. Entering the castle doors, the luxurious interior welcomes visitors into its unique surroundings, steeped in history. Guests can also try their hand at Falconry and have the opportunity to meet the castle's famous Golden Eagle. Peckforton Castle's 1851 Fine dining restaurant has recently been awarded 2 AA Rosettes with a full Al A Carte menu on offer.

Classic double rooms from £250 per night

Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel in Darlington
 
The 12th century Walworth Castle Hotel offers guests an authentic castle exoerience with luxurious bedrooms, suites and award winning cuisine in Hansard's restaurant.

Standard double rooms from £125 per night.

Bovey Castle in North Bovey
 
The majestic Bovey Castle perches high on the edge of the valley, enjoying far reaching views of the surrunding landscape. Below the beautifully restored Edwardian gardens, the championship golf course meanders along the valley and the burbling River Bovey sparkles and glistens as it makes its way down from the high moor. The bedrooms in the Castle are designed with comfort in mind. Heavenly beds, delicious duvets, wonderful views through leaded panes, lofted ceilings, and family suites are all part of the Bovey Castle experience. As one would expect from a property set in 400 acres and situated in the heart of the dramatically beautiful Dartmoor National Park, the list includes almost every country and sporting activity imaginable; including croquet, cricket, mountain biking, table tennis, archery, rifle shooting, fishing, riding, ferret racing, tennis and even the more simple pleasures of beekeeping or cider making. For more adrenalin fuelled activities, guests can take up the challenge of power kiting or canoeing, clay pigeon shooting or the Land Rover 4x4 off-road experience. A unique resort offering an unparalleled lifestyle and experience, just two hours from London it is the perfect property for any number of occasions, be it family get together, sporting holiday, romantic escape, or just a break away from it all.

Classic double rooms from £249 per night.

Find more castle hotels in our Hotels Directory.