If you hanker after a true castle to call your own, then why not hire one for your next holiday? While you may not hire the whole castle, at least a few suites will give you the experience of nobility without being born into it.
Here are the top 5 castles to stay in the UK.
Amberley Castle, England
Located in the heart of England, you'll leave Amberley feeling like royalty. Visitors are spoilt with 19 elegant and beautifully furnished suites to choose from, each complete with a Jacuzzi for relaxing soaks. The exterior and interior of the grand castle are historically preserved and guests will spend hours transfixed by the artwork, antiques and furniture, whilst seamlessly enjoying the modern comforts provided by the management, such as phone access and fine modern dining.
Within the walls of the castle, guests can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lush, wide gardens, featuring water fountains and perfectly manicured topiary. An 18 hole golf course also sits on the premises.
Dalhousie Castle and Spa, Scotland
It looks as if it belongs in a fairy tale, but Dalhousie Castle and Spa is open to guests looking for a luxury holiday in Scotland. Featuring 15 historically themed rooms, guests can enjoy staying in quarters decorated with tasteful historical furniture, paintings and linen. Another 21 rooms are available.
Visitors can enjoy relaxing walks around the grounds, with three walking tracks designed to expose the best and beautiful parts of the territory. Those looking for relaxation can lounge around at the hydro-spa, whereas others looking for a unique adventure should book themselves into a session of falconry, a long forgotten art form of Scottish nobility.
Swinton Park Castle, England
Set on 200 acres of magnificent gardens and lakes, Swinton Park Castle is one of the jewels of England, located in North Yorkshire. With unspoilt views and charming green countryside, visitors will be forgiven for spending hours admiring the grounds before remembering to check in!
A variety of attractions are available at the castle, depending upon which time of the year guests happen to stay. In the warmer months the castle hosts Garden Lunch events, whereas in Winter (January and February) Gourmet Weekends are available for indulgence.
Accommodation is grand and roomy, with comfortable beds and fine furnishings, coupled with wi-fi internet access and satellite TV for guests who still have their modern needs. Dog beds are provided upon request.
Dromoland Castle, Ireland
Guests will fall in love with Ireland's most beautiful castle, located in the west, world renowned for its beautiful scenery and green hills. Dromoland delivers everything it promises - splendidly furnished rooms and suites, an idyllic golf course, a rejuvenating health spa and delicious dining. Constructed in 1002, guests will be transported to another time and place, simultaneously pampered by state of the art facilities and gracious staff. This is an ultimate in luxury travel.
Leisure activities include lingering over the beautiful art galleries within the castle, clay shooting, horse riding, archery, walks and fishing. Take your pick and let the days laze away in tranquil comfort as you forget what it was like in the real, rushed world.
Waterford Castle, Ireland
Located on its own exclusive island, over 800 years old, fashioned from carved wood and stone, visitors will alight from the ferry and gasp in awe at the magnificent castle that stands before them. Located in the south east of Ireland, guests will be treated to a choice of 19 exclusive rooms, including five sumptuous suites.
There are a number of places around the castle for dining, each with its own unique ambience. Try the Munster Room, where the dress code is 'smart' and the atmosphere is decidedly elegant - a pianist will play softly in the corner as you feast on the rosette award winning food. Or taste afternoon tea in the Grand Entrance Hall, where you will be treated to scones, pastries and champagne as you choose. Also available is the Fitzgerald Room and the Golf House.
Guests who venture outdoors will have an array of activities to choose from: golf, tennis, walks along nature trails and tennis are just some of the leisurely pursuits on offer. This luxury resort will offer guests whatever they need.
Call 13 70 71 or enquire online to speak to one of our travel specialists and begin planning your personalised itinerary.
