Where to Find the Best Castle Stays in the UK

Written By Laura Mckeever


Imagine waking up in the ruins once home to Elizabeth of York, or sleeping in the very room where Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII spent a night together. A stay in a UK castle hotel is more than just a getaway — it’s the chance to step into history, to walk the same halls as royalty and nobles, while still enjoying the comforts of modern luxury.

For many travellers, a castle stay is a bucket-list dream, but it isn’t always as out of reach as it seems. From grand Tudor fortresses to romantic Scottish towers, options range from five-star suites with fine dining to cosy self-catering apartments tucked within castle walls. As an independent travel advisor, I’ve researched (and stayed in) historic properties that let you experience both: centuries of heritage and the indulgence of a relaxing escape.

Why Stay in a UK Castle?

  • Live like royalty: Wake up to turrets, tapestries, and historic charm.

  • History at your doorstep: Many castles are within easy reach of famous heritage sites, battlefields, or historic gardens.

  • Unforgettable atmosphere: From candlelit dining halls to medieval courtyards, the setting itself feels like a story waiting to be told.

  • Romance and occasion: Perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or milestone trips.

  • Not always a splurge: While some castles offer lavish luxury, others provide affordable packages and even family-friendly stays.

Types of Castle Stays in the UK

At Powis Castle, Welshpool, you can stay at the onsite Edwardian bothy cottage



Not all castle experiences are the same — and that’s part of the charm. Depending on your budget and travel style, you’ll find:

  • Castle Hotels – Fully serviced with restaurants, spas, and suites fit for kings.

  • Castles with Modern Wings or Adjacent Hotels – Best of both worlds: historic atmosphere plus modern comfort.

  • Castle Apartments & Self-Catering – Ideal for longer stays or families, often managed by organisations such as the Landmark Trust.

  • Castle B&Bs & Guesthouses – Intimate, with a personal touch from hosts who know the history inside out.

  • Castle Ground Hotels – Located on castle estates with sweeping views, even if not within the main fortress itself.

Where to Find the Best Castle Stays in the UK

Whether you’re yet to explore Wales — the castle capital of the world — or you’d rather wander through England’s rolling meadows, each of the UK’s regions offers a memorable stay.

England

  • Thornbury Castle (Gloucestershire) — A luxury castle hotel that once hosted Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn during their royal progress. Historic records suggest they stayed here while avoiding a plague outbreak in Bristol.

  • Hever Castle (Kent) — Anne Boleyn’s childhood home and later the residence of Anne of Cleves, with a dedicated guest wing.

  • Warwick Castle (Warwickshire) — While you can’t stay within the fortress itself, themed suites and “glamping” in the Knight’s Village offer a magical experience with castle views.

Scotland

  • Inverlochy Castle Hotel (Fort William) — A favourite of Queen Victoria, combining heritage with mountain views and Michelin-star dining.

  • Dalhousie Castle (Edinburgh) — A 13th-century fortress turned spa hotel, once besieged by Henry IV of England and later used by Cromwell. Today, it offers falconry and luxury spa escapes.

Wales



  • Ruthin Castle (Denbighshire) — Built on medieval ruins once granted to the brother of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Today, it’s a spa hotel with budget-friendly options.

  • Brecon Castle (Powys) — Once caught in the crossfire of Tudor politics, its ruins now sit alongside a modern refurbished hotel at the base of Pen y Fan.

Northern Ireland

  • Ballygally Castle (County Antrim) — Overlooking the Irish Sea and reputedly haunted, this 17th-century castle brims with charm.

  • Killeavy Castle Estate (Armagh) — A 19th-century Tudor-style gem with a modern interior and extensive grounds.

Castle Stays According to Historic Figures

If you’re open-minded about which castle to choose, why not let history decide? Many UK castle hotels are tied to remarkable figures whose lives shaped the nation. From Tudor queens to tragic Mary Stuart, here are a few places where you can quite literally sleep in their footsteps.

Stay in Elizabeth of York’s First Marital Home – Astley Castle

Before her roadside encounter with King Edward IV, Elizabeth of York lived at Astley Castle with her first husband, Sir John Grey. Originally built in the 13th century, Astley evolved into a Tudor manor house under the Greys, but fell into ruin after a devastating fire in 1978.

The Landmark Trust later restored the property, blending modern architecture with medieval walls. Today, Astley Castle is a unique holiday let that sleeps up to eight across two twin and two double rooms. While mobile signal is weak, the reward is a sense of medieval seclusion — dining where three English queens once lived. The property is pet-friendly and offers accessibility features, including ground-floor bedrooms, a walk-in shower, and a lift.

Sleep in the Same Room as Henry VIII – Thornbury Castle

Built by the third Duke of Buckingham, Thornbury Castle became Crown property after the Duke’s execution in 1521. In 1535, Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here for ten days, seeking refuge from plague in nearby Bristol.

Today, Thornbury remains a rare luxury property where you can book the very room associated with their stay. The Henry VIII Suite, accessed by an original spiral staircase, brims with Tudor opulence. The castle also features rooms named after Henry’s wives, including the Catherine of Aragon Room — home to one of the largest four-poster hotel beds in the UK.

Beyond the castle walls, guests can explore the Gloucestershire countryside, with historic gems like Dyrham Park (20 miles) and the Roman Baths of Bath (27 miles) within easy reach.

Relax in a Setting Fit for a Scots Queen – Borthwick Castle

Mary, Queen of Scots often stayed at Borthwick Castle, including during her time with the Earl of Bothwell. Known as the “Grandest Keep in Scotland,” the 15th-century stronghold has hosted royal visitors, nobles, and rebels alike.

Available today for exclusive hire, Borthwick offers a fully immersive experience. Its meticulously restored bedrooms retain their Stuart charm, with the Mary Queen of Scots Bedchamber standing out for its private entrance to the queen’s chapel. Ideal for weddings or group stays, Borthwick Castle is the ultimate choice if you want to immerse yourself in Renaissance history with all the comforts of modern luxury.

Rest in a Castle Hotel Beloved by Queen Victoria – Melville Castle

Close to Edinburgh, Melville Castle has long been tied to Scottish nobility and visiting royalty. In 1842, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert stayed here during their Scottish travels. Earlier, it had served as the residence of the Sheriff of Edinburgh.

Today, Melville Castle is an eco-certified hotel with 33 unique rooms, each rich in Scottish character. Guests can unwind with a whiskey in the Library Bar or stroll through the 54-acre estate. Four-poster beds and grand interiors bring a regal feel, while its location makes it an excellent base for exploring Edinburgh’s historic treasures.

Ready to Plan Your Own Castle Escape?

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic Tudor suite, a Scottish fortress with falconry, or a cosy Landmark Trust property for the whole family, I can help you find the perfect castle stay. I’ll match you with the right property, plan nearby heritage day trips, and take care of the details — so you can simply arrive and feel like royalty.

👉 Get in touch today to start planning your castle adventure.

Laura Mckeever