Have you, like millions around the globe, found yourself captivated by the intrigue and drama of the hit TV show 'Traitors'? The stunning Scottish Highland setting of Ardross Castle, with its majestic turrets and sprawling grounds, has ignited a powerful new travel trend: the desire to experience the magic of a historic British castle firsthand. It's a trend that goes beyond mere sightseeing; it's about immersing yourself in a world of history, luxury, and even a touch of the supernatural.

This growing fascination with castle stays isn't just for history buffs. It's for anyone seeking a truly unique and unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic escape, a solo traveller on a quest for adventure, or simply someone who dreams of trading the mundane for the magical, a castle hotel offers an unparalleled opportunity to step back in time and live like royalty, even if just for a little while.

Why a Castle? The Allure of Ancient Walls...

So, what is it about these ancient stone fortresses that has captured the modern imagination? The appeal is multifaceted, weaving together threads of romance, history, and the thrill of the unknown.

For couples, a castle hotel is the ultimate romantic backdrop. Imagine waking up in a four-poster bed, the morning light filtering through a mullioned window that has witnessed centuries of secrets. Picture yourselves strolling hand-in-hand through manicured gardens, the air filled with the scent of roses and the weight of history. A castle stay allows you to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with each other in a setting that feels like a real-life fairytale. It's an opportunity to create shared memories that will last a lifetime, far from the distractions of modern life.

But the appeal of a castle hotel extends far beyond romance. For solo travellers, it's a chance to embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. The sense of history and solitude within these ancient walls can be incredibly empowering. It's a space to reflect, to explore, and to feel a connection to something larger than oneself. The safety and self-contained nature of a castle estate also make it an ideal choice for those travelling alone, offering a sense of security without sacrificing the thrill of exploration.

And then there's the undeniable allure of the supernatural. Many of these ancient castles are steeped in spooky stories and tales of ghostly apparitions. From the tragic tale of a heartbroken lady to the restless spirit of a wronged nobleman, these stories add another layer of intrigue to the castle experience. Whether you're a firm believer in the paranormal or simply enjoy a good ghost story, the possibility of a supernatural encounter adds a thrilling dimension to your stay. It's a reminder that these are not just buildings; they are living, breathing repositories of human history, with all the drama, passion, and tragedy that entails.

Our Top 10 Historic UK Castle Hotels

Ready to embark on your own castle adventure? We've researched the finest historic castle hotels across the UK to bring you our top 10 picks for an unforgettable stay. Each of these castles offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and atmosphere, making them the perfect choice for couples and solo travellers alike.

1. Amberley Castle, West Sussex, England

For those seeking a truly enchanting and romantic experience, Amberley Castle is a dream come true. Nestled in the picturesque South Downs, this 900-year-old castle is a haven of tranquility and luxury. With its medieval walls, stunning gardens, and impeccable service, it's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Location: Amberley, West Sussex, just 90 minutes from London.

Best Time to Visit: The English countryside is at its most beautiful from late spring to early autumn (May to September). The weather is generally mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the castle grounds and the surrounding South Downs National Park.

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Typical Weather: Expect warm, sunny days in the summer, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn offer cooler, but still pleasant, weather, with a mix of sunshine and showers.

Food Recommendation: The Queen's Room restaurant, located within the castle, offers an award-winning dining experience. For a more casual meal, the nearby Amberley Black Horse is a traditional pub with a great reputation.

Special Attractions: Explore the castle's beautiful gardens, play a game of croquet on the lawn, or simply relax by the fire in one of the cozy lounges. The castle is also a great base for exploring the South Downs, with its rolling hills and charming villages.

Spooky Stories: Amberley Castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young servant girl named Emily, who tragically took her own life after being betrayed by her lover. Her restless spirit is sometimes seen wandering the battlements, a poignant reminder of the castle's long and dramatic history.

Price: Rooms start from around £230/$292 per night

2. Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire, England

Step into the dramatic world of the Tudors at Thornbury Castle, a magnificent fortress with a history of royal intrigue and betrayal. This is the very castle where King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed during their honeymoon tour in 1535. With its grand Tudor architecture, opulent interiors, and sprawling grounds, Thornbury offers a truly immersive historical experience.

Location: Thornbury, Gloucestershire, near Bristol.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds than in the summer months.

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Typical Weather: The weather is temperate, with warm summers and mild, wet winters. Spring and autumn offer a pleasant mix of sunshine and showers.

Food Recommendation: The castle's own restaurant offers a fine dining experience. For a taste of the local cuisine, head to Ronnie's of Thornbury, a highly-regarded local restaurant. The area is also famous for its cheese and cider, so be sure to sample some during your stay.

Special Attractions: Live like a Tudor monarch for a day by trying your hand at archery or falconry in the castle grounds. Explore the beautiful walled gardens, or simply relax in one of the grand reception rooms with a glass of wine from the castle's own vineyard.

Spooky Stories: Thornbury Castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of Jasper Tudor, Duke of Bedford, who is not keen on the modern use of his former chambers. The spirit of Princess Mary Tudor, daughter of Henry VIII, is also said to wander the grounds with her beloved greyhounds.

Price: Rooms start from around £215/$274 per night.

3. Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire, Scotland

For a taste of Scottish baronial grandeur, look no further than Glenapp Castle. This magnificent 19th-century castle, located on the stunning Ayrshire coast, is a world-class hotel that offers a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience. With its fairytale turrets, opulent interiors, and breathtaking sea views, Glenapp is the perfect setting for a romantic escape or a solo adventure.

Location: Ballantrae, Ayrshire, Scotland.

Best Time to Visit: The Scottish Lowlands are beautiful in the spring and summer (May to September), with long days and relatively mild weather. The autumn months (September and October) are also a great time to visit, with stunning autumn colours and fewer crowds.

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Typical Weather: The weather in this part of Scotland is changeable, but you can expect average summer temperatures of around 17°C (63°F). Be prepared for some rain, whatever the time of year!

Food Recommendation: The castle's award-winning restaurant offers a superb dining experience, with a focus on fresh, local produce. The nearby town of Girvan also has a number of good restaurants and pubs.

Special Attractions: Glenapp Castle offers a wide range of activities, from falconry and archery to sea safaris and stargazing. The castle is also a great base for exploring the beautiful Ayrshire coast and the nearby Galloway Forest Park.

Spooky Stories: While Glenapp Castle doesn't have any well-known ghost stories, the ancient and dramatic landscape of Ayrshire is steeped in myth and legend. The castle's own history, dating back to 1870, is full of fascinating stories of the families who have lived there.

Price: Rooms start from around £375/$477 per night.

4. Fonab Castle, Perthshire, Scotland

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Scottish Highlands at Fonab Castle, a stunning 19th-century baronial castle that has been transformed into a luxurious five-star hotel. With its dramatic architecture, contemporary interiors, and breathtaking views over Loch Faskally, Fonab offers a unique blend of old and new. It's the perfect base for exploring the wild and beautiful Cairngorms National Park.

Location: Pitlochry, Perthshire, Scotland.

Best Time to Visit: The Scottish Highlands are at their most spectacular in the spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October). The weather is generally good, and you'll avoid the summer crowds.

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Typical Weather: The weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable, but you can expect average summer temperatures of around 15°C (59°F). Be prepared for rain and midges, especially in the summer months!

Food Recommendation: Fonab Castle has two excellent restaurants, offering a choice of fine dining or a more relaxed brasserie-style experience. The nearby town of Pitlochry also has a wide range of pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes.

Special Attractions: Fonab Castle is the perfect base for exploring the Cairngorms National Park, with its stunning mountains, lochs, and forests. The hotel can arrange a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and whisky tasting.

Spooky Stories: While Fonab Castle is not known for any specific ghost stories, the surrounding area is steeped in Scottish folklore and legend. The nearby Blair Castle is said to be one of the most haunted castles in Scotland, with a number of resident ghosts.

Price: Rooms start from around £265/$337 per night.

5. Leeds Castle, Kent, England

Often described as "the loveliest castle in the world," Leeds Castle is a truly magical place. Surrounded by a magnificent moat and set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland, this historic castle has been a royal residence, a Jacobean country house, and a glamorous 20th-century retreat. Today, it offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.

Location: Maidstone, Kent, England.

Best Time to Visit: The castle and grounds are stunning year-round, but the gardens are at their most beautiful in the spring and summer (May to September).

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Typical Weather: Kent is one of the driest and sunniest parts of the UK, with warm summers and mild winters. Expect average summer temperatures of around 22°C (72°F).

Food Recommendation: The Castle View Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with stunning views of the moat. For a more casual meal, there are several cafes and restaurants within the castle grounds.

Special Attractions: Explore the magnificent castle, get lost in the yew maze, or take a leisurely punt on the moat. The castle also hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, from open-air concerts to jousting tournaments.

Spooky Stories: Leeds Castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a black dog, whose appearance is said to be a portent of death. The castle's long and dramatic history is also full of stories of royal intrigue and betrayal.

Price: Accommodation is available in the Maiden's Tower and the Stable Courtyard, with prices starting from around £200/$254 per night.

6. Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland, England

Dominating the dramatic Northumberland coastline, Bamburgh Castle is one of the most iconic and impressive castles in England. With a history stretching back over 1,400 years, this magnificent fortress has been a royal palace, a formidable stronghold, and the star of numerous films and television shows. While you can't stay in the main castle itself, the estate offers a unique opportunity to live within the castle walls in luxurious self-catering accommodation.

Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland, England.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) offers the best weather for enjoying the nearby beaches, while the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide a quieter experience.

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Typical Weather: The weather on the Northumberland coast can be unpredictable, but you can expect average summer temperatures of around 16°C (61°F). Be prepared for wind and rain, even in the summer.

Food Recommendation: The nearby village of Bamburgh has a number of excellent pubs and restaurants. The Potted Lobster is a must-visit for seafood lovers, while The Lord Crewe Arms offers a more traditional pub experience.

Special Attractions: Explore the magnificent castle and its fascinating history, walk along the stunning Bamburgh Beach, or take a boat trip to the Farne Islands to see the puffins and seals. The castle also hosts a range of events throughout the year, from historical re-enactments to outdoor theatre.

Spooky Stories: Bamburgh Castle is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts, including the Green Lady, who is said to be the spirit of a young woman who was tragically killed in a fall from the castle walls. The ghost of a knight on horseback has also been seen riding along the beach at night.

Price: Accommodation in the Neville Tower and Clock Tower starts from around £1,200/$1,526 for a short break.

7. Langley Castle, Northumberland, England

Transport yourself back to the 14th century at Langley Castle, an authentic medieval fortress set in a beautiful woodland estate in the heart of Northumberland. Built in 1350, this magnificent castle has retained its architectural integrity and offers a truly immersive historical experience. With its towering battlements, seven-foot-thick walls, and luxurious interiors, Langley Castle is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or a historic adventure.

Location: Langley-on-Tyne, Northumberland, England.

Best Time to Visit: The castle is a magical destination year-round, but the surrounding countryside is particularly beautiful in the spring and autumn.

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Typical Weather: The weather in Northumberland is temperate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters. Expect a mix of sunshine and showers, whatever the time of year.

Food Recommendation: The castle's 2 AA Rosette restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a magnificent setting. For a more casual meal, the nearby town of Hexham has a number of excellent pubs and restaurants.

Special Attractions: Take a tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history, explore the beautiful woodland estate, or simply relax by the fire in one of the grand reception rooms. The castle is also a great base for exploring Hadrian's Wall, the Northumberland National Park, and the stunning Northumberland coast.

Spooky Stories: Langley Castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of Maud de Lucy, a former resident who is said to have thrown herself from the castle battlements after her husband was killed in battle. Her grief-stricken spirit is sometimes seen wandering the castle corridors.

Price: Rooms start from around £175/$223 per night.

8. Dalhousie Castle, Midlothian, Scotland

Just a stone's throw from Edinburgh, Dalhousie Castle is a magnificent 13th-century fortress set in a beautiful wooded parkland on the banks of the River Esk. With its fascinating history, luxurious accommodation, and award-winning spa, Dalhousie offers a truly unforgettable experience. It's the perfect choice for a romantic break, a historic adventure, or a relaxing spa getaway.

Location: Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, Scotland.

Best Time to Visit: The castle is a wonderful destination year-round, but the city of Edinburgh is particularly vibrant during the summer festival season (August).

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Typical Weather: The weather in this part of Scotland is temperate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters. Expect a mix of sunshine and showers, whatever the time of year.

Food Recommendation: The castle's award-winning Dungeon Restaurant offers a unique and atmospheric dining experience. For a more casual meal, the Orangery serves light lunches and afternoon teas.

Special Attractions: Take a tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history, indulge in a treatment at the Aqueous Spa, or try your hand at falconry in the castle grounds. The castle is also a great base for exploring the city of Edinburgh and the beautiful Midlothian countryside.

Spooky Stories: Dalhousie Castle is said to be one of the most haunted castles in Scotland, with a number of resident ghosts. The most famous is Lady Catherine, a former resident who is said to have died of a broken heart and now wanders the castle corridors in search of her lost love.

Price: Rooms start from around £202/$257 per night.

9. Château Rhianfa, Anglesey, Wales

Experience a taste of French romance in the heart of North Wales at Château Rhianfa, a stunning Grade II listed château on the banks of the Menai Strait. With its fairytale turrets, opulent interiors, and breathtaking views of Snowdonia, this magnificent hotel is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or a luxurious escape. It's a truly unique and unforgettable destination.

Location: Menai Bridge, Anglesey, Wales.

Best Time to Visit: The Welsh countryside is at its most beautiful in the spring and summer (May to September), with long days and relatively mild weather.

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Typical Weather: The weather in this part of Wales can be unpredictable, but you can expect average summer temperatures of around 18°C (64°F). Be prepared for some rain, whatever the time of year.

Food Recommendation: The château's award-winning restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on fresh, local produce. The nearby town of Menai Bridge also has a number of excellent pubs and restaurants.

Special Attractions: Explore the beautiful château and its stunning gardens, take a boat trip on the Menai Strait, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views. The château is also a great base for exploring the Isle of Anglesey and the Snowdonia National Park.

Spooky Stories: While Château Rhianfa doesn't have any well-known ghost stories, the ancient landscape of Anglesey is steeped in myth and legend. The nearby Beaumaris Castle is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts, including a mysterious piper who is sometimes heard playing his pipes at night.

Price: Rooms start from around £145/$184 per night.

10. Tulloch Castle, Scottish Highlands

For an authentic and affordable taste of the Scottish Highlands, look no further than Tulloch Castle. This historic 12th-century castle, located in the market town of Dingwall, is steeped in history and legend. With its grand interiors, comfortable accommodation, and friendly atmosphere, Tulloch Castle is the perfect base for exploring the wild and beautiful Scottish Highlands.

Location: Dingwall, Ross-shire, Scotland.

Best Time to Visit: The Scottish Highlands are at their most spectacular in the spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October). The weather is generally good, and you'll avoid the summer crowds.

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Typical Weather: The weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable, but you can expect average summer temperatures of around 15°C (59°F). Be prepared for rain and midges, especially in the summer months!

Food Recommendation: The castle's Turrets Restaurant offers a traditional Scottish dining experience in a magnificent setting. The nearby town of Dingwall also has a number of good pubs and restaurants.

Special Attractions: Take a ghost tour of the castle and learn about its spooky history, explore the beautiful surrounding countryside, or simply relax by the fire in the grand reception room. The castle is also a great base for exploring the city of Inverness and the famous Loch Ness.

Spooky Stories: Tulloch Castle is said to be one of the most haunted castles in Scotland, with a number of resident ghosts. The most famous is the Green Lady, who is said to be the spirit of a former resident who is often seen wandering the castle corridors. The castle also has a spooky dungeon, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former prisoner.

Price: Rooms start from around £81/$103 per night.

A Holiday with a Difference

A castle holiday is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home. It's a chance to step back in time, to immerse yourself in history, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a solo adventure, or simply a break from the ordinary, a historic UK castle hotel offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and perhaps just a little bit enchanted.

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