12 Fairytale Castle Hotels

Ever since I was little, I have been blown away by the beauty and grandeur of castles. They are so stunning and rich in interesting history.

Maybe I’m a little biased as I spent most of my former years donning Disney princess dresses, wandering around the ornate and regal rooms, wide-eyed and waiting for a knight in shining armour to come and save me from dragons and dungeons.

Each castle different from the last, a new story to be told, a new love story blooming. It was my favourite place in the world to be.  

Well, the Disney dresses have long been forgotten, my knight in shining armour never came, but one with remains – my love of castles.

And whether you have a princess fantasy to live out like me, you want that regal and powerful feeling, you love the history and stories that live within the castle walls, or you just really like big fancy rooms, a castle hotel stay is a must-add to your bucket list. 

And luckily for you, I have compiled a list of all the best castles across the UK that you can call your home for the night! Excited? You should be.

From Northumberland to the Cotswolds, Devon to Durham we have some of the most stunning and picturesque castle hotels just waiting for you to walk through their doors. 

So, what are we waiting for? Your Royal Highness…your castle awaits. 

Would you like to visit one of these castles? Don’t miss out on our handpicked travel deals, including holiday packages for under £200.

12 Stunning Fairytale Castles

Studley Castle – Cotswolds 

This stunning Warwickshire 19th-century castle had me instantly searching for Repunzel trapped atop the highest peak of the building.

The Gothic Revival architecture is spectacularly stunning and just screams Gothel Lives Here. 

Once you can finally pull your attention away from the amazing castle, you’ll also notice that the grounds are equally as impressive.

Transport yourself back to yonder-year and partake in some archery and shooting, or surround yourself with the bountiful nature that engulfs you by strolling or cycling around the routes that wind through the ground’s scenery. 

Treat yourself to the real royal treatment in their Stables Spa which includes a swimming pool, steam room, sauna, and plenty of super relaxing treatments.

Then once you are all pampered out, enjoy a delicious meal in the Evesham Restaurant accompanied by some live music. 

And if this wasn’t already enough, you can also enjoy the Garden Room, the cocktails in the Oak Room, a nice cuppa in the Arden Cafe Bar, the Hideaway, and the huge in-house cinema! Um, yes, please. 

Thornbury Castle – South Gloucestershire 

Castles are beautiful and picturesque, the stories that lie within them though, are often much more unpleasant and gruesome as wealthy men fight for power and status. And this stunning castle is no exception. 

Long ago, back during the very beginning of the 1500s, this luxurious building was known as home to Edward Stafford, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham.

Stafford was inexplicably wealthy, matching the current king kind of wealthy, and wanted his home to reflect his obvious affluence and status. And as you’ll find out for yourself on a visit – it definitely worked. 

One might even say that it worked too well. During this time, King Henry VIII ruled the country and definitely did not appreciate such a magnificent symbol of Stafford’s fortune.

In fact, it angered him so that he would go on to behead him on counts of treason.

Shortly after, the king claimed this land as his own and stayed in the opulent castle with his then-wife, Anne Boleyn. 

Today the historic Grade I listed building homes hundreds of hotel guests and hosts only the most spectacular and stylish weddings.

You’ll be transported back to the stunning Tudor period the second you step through the doors and revel in their four-poster beds, rich tapestries, signature spiraling staircases, warm crackling open fireplaces, and much more. 

A few more modern rooms have also been added for comfort such as the gourmet restaurant and relaxing treatment rooms all of which have your comfort and enjoyment at heart. 

Amberley Castle – West Sussex

 Amberley Castle located within a beautiful small village in West Sussex will definitely ensure that you live out that fairytale princess dream you’ve harbored since childhood.

With an impressive stone entrance be sure to bring your best dresses and formal suits to really soak up the regality of the place and get those pretty pictures.

The now Grade I building was once a 12th-Century manor house that was later fortified during the 1370s to home the Bishops of Chichester. Now, it is one of the best hotels you could ever dream of staying in. 

You’ll still have all the conveniences of modern-day life in one of the 19 guest rooms, but you will also still notice the abundance of period features and antiques to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

The small number of rooms will ensure your break away stays quiet and intimate too. 

Make sure to explore the many activities on offer such as the tennis courts and the 18-hole putting green, maybe give croquet a go on the lawn or just enjoy the stunning scenery around you.

And once you get peckish, visit the Queen’s Room or Great Room for some of the best fine dining around. 

Bovey Castle – Dartmoor 

Built during the 1900s, Bovey castle is relatively new to the scene, but by no means does that mean it is any less stunning or opulent.

Locate on the fringes of the remarkable Dartmoor National Park, this castle really is a wonder to behold. Oh, and there’s so much to do. 

You’ll want to pay attention to the smaller details at Bovey Castle, they’ll be everywhere you look.

The gorgeous Jacobean architecture is obvious and you’ll spot many intricate and exquisite carvings.

No two rooms in the hotel are exactly alike as each one has its own decor and furnishings.

You can even opt to stay in one of the self-catering lodges found deep within the scenic castle grounds! 

You’ll have access to a stunning spa, a Brasserie, an amazing 18-hole golf course, and one of the best and highest-class restaurants you’ll have the pleasure of dining in during your stay too. 

Tregenna Castle – St Ives, Cornwall

Positioned at the top of a lofty hilltop, you couldn’t ask for better views than you’ll get from the stunning Tregenna Castle.

You’ll look out at the rugged and renowned Cornish coastline and bask in the beauty of your location (see here for more information on UK coastlines). Castles and a coastline? Perfection. 

This castle is great because it’s perfect for everyone. It makes the perfect romantic getaway in one of the elegant guest suites but also a grand and fun family-friendly holiday in their apartments.

You can even opt to stay in one of their self-catering homes. 

Of course, you have the seaside just a stone’s throw away from your castle hotel, but there are also tons of fun activities to take part in right on site.

There are indoor and outdoor pools to splash about in, a play area, a tennis and golf course, and a fitness center along with wellness facilities for once you’re done. 

I’d definitely take advantage of the hot tub, but there are also saunas, yoga studios, and tons of therapy treatments because of course regals are all about relaxation.  

Hever Castle – Kent 

Not far from London, you’ll find the stunning Hever Castle.

It was built way back in the 1200s and is famous for being one of the best castle stays across the whole of the UK thanks to its rich history. 

This majestic castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife to Henry VIII. It would then later become the home of yet another of the King’s many wives Anne of Cleves.

So with two previous royals having roamed the very halls that you’ll explore yourself, there couldn’t be a more regal setting for a visit. 

You’ll be able to bask in the grandeur and splendor of the castle with the admirable antique furnishings and Tudor paintings and marvel at the old instruments of torture that are still within the castle grounds to this very day.

You can even view a selection of personal belongings that belonged to Anne Boleyn herself. It’s a historian’s dream. 

But don’t worry, if you’re not that interested in the ground’s rich history, you can turn your attention to the beautiful lake, expansive intricate maze, or kid’s adventure playground.

There’s also a lounge and billiard room, tennis courts, and free admission to other parts of the castle.

And if in the unlikely event that you still don’t have enough to do, there’s also an exceptional spa and 27-hole golf course. 

Augill Castle – Nr Kirkby Stephen

Lavish and luxurious, it’ll be impossible not to feel regal in this stunning castle hidden between the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

And I really think that name speaks for itself – how much more picturesque could you get? 

The production of this building was also the ultimate move of pettiness.

So the story goes like this, a man of great wealth simply wants to make his younger brothers green with envy and so he builds the most ornate and beautiful building.

For that purpose and that purpose alone. I like to annoy my siblings as much as the next guy, but this move seems a bit excessive. 

Regardless of his intentions though, visitors are beyond grateful for the stunning castle that has come to be.

It is created in a Victorian style and has much to behold and explore such as its turrets, high towers, and ornate windows.

It was initially only really ever used as a weekend getaway before eventually becoming abandoned and forgotten. 

Thankfully, the building was restored to its former glory and is now accessible to the public as the most peaceful and regal getaway. Be assured that the inside of this stunning building is just as grand and gorgeous. 

Pentillie Castle And Estate – Saltash, Devon

Pentillie Castle has been many things over the years since it was built back in the late 1600s.

Of course, as all of these grand buildings begin, it was created to be a lavish home and symbol of wealth and status for its owner.

However, when the second world war broke out, part of the castle would become a maternity hospital.

Then finally during the 1960s, it would be remodeled into the popular hotel and perfect wedding destination guests have come to know and love. 

While the exterior might have you transported back to yesteryear, you’ll have all your home comforts and luxuries once you walk through the doors.

Flat-screen TVs adorn the walls and there’s access to free Wi-Fi so you can still upload all your castle selfies. 

The castle even has a games room, swimming pool, and a super tasty farmhouse kitchen. So be sure to explore inside and out, and take part in traditions both old and new.  

Cave Castle – Brough, Yorkshire 

Buried deep inside a gorgeous woodland in East Yorkshire, you’ll find the treasure which is Cave Castle.

With a whopping 150 acres of estate, an 18-hole golf course, a health and spa club, and a fine-dining gourmet restaurant, you’ll never run out of fun things to do. 

If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing night away from all the hustle and bustle of normal day-to-day life, then you won’t find a better retreat than this one. 

You can take a pleasurable stroll around the stunning scenery before coming back to a luxurious spa treatment.

There’s no better way to feel like a proper princess than getting a massage, facial, and hair and beauty treatment.

Then if that wasn’t enough, you can also take a dip in the heated pool or jacuzzi and finish off in the steam room. 

This stunning castle combines the charm of traditional with the comfort of contemporary to ensure the very best break away. 

Walworth Castle – Nr Darlington, County Durham 

Yet another remarkable castle you can stay in is Walworth Castle. This Grade I building dates all the way back to the late 17th century. It has been used for many different things over the years.

It’s been a home, a boarding school, and even a POW camp during WWII. Even King James VI of Scotland resided here way back in 1603. 

Then during the 1980s, it became the stunning hotel that guests have come to adore.

What is so special about this castle is that the rooms are actually throughout the actual castle itself and all boost the beautiful original features that would have been seen all those years ago. 

If you’re looking for a real treat, be sure to book the King James Suite where the very king himself resided hundreds of years before. How often can you say you slept in the same room as a king? 

Langley Castle – Hexham, Northumberland 

This gorgeous 14th-century castle has major medieval vibes and is encompassed by the most stunning woodland estate. It is no stranger to seeing action either.

Langley castle saw its most devastating attack way back in 1405. It would remain in ruin then all the way until the 19th century when it was finally restored to its former glory. 

It has also had many different purposes over the years. Of course, now, it is the most beautiful hotel, but many years ago it was one barracks used throughout the Second World War and a school. 

Now, Langley Castle is a prime example of splendor and extravaganze.

The outside grounds are picturesque and serene, and the inside has these beautiful olde worlde touches that transport you to another time. 

While every room will have you feeling regal, if you truly want to feel like a King or Queen, be sure to opt for a feature room where you’ll have access to extra extravagance.

Cozy crackling fireplaces, large shining chandeliers, and window seats for beautiful vistas are but a few of the defining features of these rooms. Some even have their very own saunas and spa tubs! 

Swinton Park Castle – Masham, North Yorkshire 

Situated in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you can be sure that Swinton Park Castle will deliver when it comes to scenic views.

The grand building was erected towards the end of the 1690s and has ever since been one of the prettiest castles with the most stunning views.

The parkland is abundant with roaming deer, along with many flowing lakes. 

In terms of rooms, you can choose between a variety of classifications all with names such as Barons, Earls, and Dukes.

Each room will have its own experience and feel since they are all individually designed with unique furniture and decor.

If you’re in a group of 3-4, you’ll also definitely want to check out the adorable and snug bedroom cottage on offer. 

And as with the many castle hotels, you’ll have plenty to do.

Have a bit to eat at afternoon tea or sip away at a local beer at the bar, take a trip to the billiards room, or relax away all the stress of day-to-day life in the amazing spa amenities. 

Final Thoughts

Okay, so the fun bit draws to an end as our amazing castle hotel list is finished, and here comes the really, really hard bit – deciding which hotel to book!

Each castle has its own unique look and rich history that you could easily stay at each and every one. And I certainly wouldn’t blame you. 

So what are you waiting for? Ditch the VIP treatment and opt for something far better…the regal treatment fit for a King or Queen!