8 Castle Hotels in England with an Epic Story

Thornbury Castle Hotel was originally designed by Edward Stafford to display his wealth and status. Henry VII did not take kindly to this and found Stafford guilty of treason, taking control of the castle and transforming it into a retreat for himself and his then-wife, Anne Boleyn. Thornbury Castle then passed down the Tudor line and 5 centuries on, it’s still just as impressive.

Located in Bristol, the rooms have been restored to reflect Tudor wealth, so you’ll feel like royalty too. As you step inside the striking stone walls you’ll experience a luxurious retreat, channelling 1520s grandeur and modern splendour. Ensure you visit the restaurant for a feast befitting of the surroundings.

Built in 1350, Langley Castle still has its architectural integrity, making it one of the few medieval fortified castle hotels in England. It has a turbulent history with some of its previous owners being executed for supporting the Jacobite risings in 1715. Today, it offers guests a luxurious stay which combines classic elegance with modern luxury.

Located in Hexham, Northumberland, Langley Castle has several features and deluxe rooms which would be perfect for a romantic getaway. Some of these rooms even include spa baths and saunas. The luxury continues with the food as the restaurant boasts a 2 AA Rosette which is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

The history of Appleby Castle is long and varied, dating back to Roman times when a fort existed here, with the Roman Well still visible in the castle. The keep is 900 years old and one of the few Norman keeps still intact. Many kings of Scotland and England have lived here and it's even rumoured to be haunted.

Described as the jewel in the Eden Valley, Appleby Castle has rooms in both the castle and the onsite cottages. Please be aware that all the castle rooms are Grade I listed and so can’t be adapted to include many modern amenities, such as ensuite bathrooms. The Norman Centre is also here if you want to learn more about the castle’s history.

Bickleigh Castle Hotel is steeped in mystery, magic and enchantment. The Norman motte castle dates back to the late 11th century, and though the main building was destroyed during the English Civil War, other buildings and the central courtyard did survive. The landscape is equally impressive, as the castle is surrounded by 60 acres of landscaped gardens, fishponds and scenic views.

Located in Devon, Bickleigh Castle now offers a bed and breakfast in traditional thatched cottages. Whether you need accommodation before a business meeting, a romantic retreat or a family getaway, you’ll be well looked after. All guests are offered a complimentary tour of the castle.

Spanning more than 600 years, Hever Castle was originally built in the 14th century as a defensive fort before passing to the Boleyn family in 1462. One of the most beautiful rooms is the Book of Hours Room which is where Henry VIII would have courted Anne Boleyn. You can also see prayer books which bear Anne's signature.

Set within 125 acres of award-winning gardens, including 5000 rose bushes, there are two ways you can stay at Hever Castle today. You can opt for the 5-star, luxury B&B or the elegant private cottage. The rooms combine traditional features with modern touches to create an unforgettable stay. Tickets for the castle and garden are included with accommodation.

Steeped in 900 years of history, Amberley Castle was built in the 12th century as a fortified manor house. Ruined during the English Civil War, it was restored by various owners over the years before eventually becoming an award-winning hotel in 1989. The luxurious accommodation is enclosed by a 60-foot-high curtain wall and a portcullis with original features. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the resident peacock roaming the grounds.

Located at the foot of the South Downs, Amberley Castle is lavishly furnished with antiques and fine fabrics. The restaurant has an outstanding reputation – you can dine in the Queen’s room with its barrel-vaulted ceiling and open fire, or the Great Room, lined with suits of armour.

First built in 1388, Lumley Castle Hotel has a long and interesting history which includes visits from all manner of guests, from royalty to Durham University students. Today, it’s a 4-star hotel where you’ll feel like a monarch. Choose from a range of grand rooms in the castle or the courtyard, with the King James Suite offering unmatched luxury including a 20-foot 4-poster bed, a reception room and a jacuzzi bath.

Located in Durham, in the northeast of England, Lumley Castle also runs several special events throughout the year including a Burns Night Banquet, an Elizabethan Banquet, a Murder Mystery Dinner and a Dungeon and Dragons event.

Camelot Castle Hotel has a unique and unusual history. Rather than being built to defend the surrounding lands, it was constructed in 1894 by Sir Robert Harvey as a much sought-after holiday hotspot in the Victorian and Edwardian world. It has even starred as a film location several times, including Sir Laurence Olivier’s Dracula.

Located in Cornwall, each of the rooms in Camelot Castle is tastefully designed and pays homage to its luxurious past. The hotel also celebrates creativity by showcasing the work of a renowned, local artist and by encouraging others to tap into their own creativity.