1 THORNBURY - Gloucestershire
Thornbury dates back to the 10th century and has a long history including ties with William the Conquerer and its use by Henry VIII during his honeymoon with Anne Boleyn. Though it has no moat it is a castle made for royalty and you can spend the night here.
2 LANGLEY - Northumberland
Langley was built in the 13th century during the reign of Edward III and was passed down through a long list of Lords and Ladies both favorable and unfavorable toward the English monarchy. Since restoration began in 1895 the castle has been a private home, barracks, girls boarding school, and venue for medieval banquets. Today it is another castle you can spend an unforgettable night in.
3 BICKLEIGH - Devon
The history of the Bickleigh estate begins around 600AD with the building of a Saxon Meeting House, which is now the chapel. The castle itself was built around 1018 and finished by 1086 in time to be entered into the Domesday Book. Again, another castle that has a long and exciting history connected to many royals, wars, and owners. Today it is mainly a venue for weddings and corporate events though it does offer accommodation in the attached cottages and one grand room in the castle. If the DBE were ever to hold an event in the UK...this one should be considered!
4 Leeds - Kent
One of the more historic and highly visited castles in the UK it came to our surprise that you can actually spend the night here. Accommodation could be in the Maiden's Tower (the building to the right of the castle pictured), the Stable Courtyard, and for the fun of it, "Knights Glamping".
5 HEVER - Kent
Another fantastic castle with historical ties to royalty including Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleeves and American royalty, William Waldorf Astor. Rooms are available in the Astor Wing, Anne Boleyn Wing, and Medley Court. The rooms are not actually in the castle itself but on the grounds in properties added by Astor in the early 1900s. Still, an unbelievable opportunity to stay in such a historic property.
6 PECKFORTON - Cheshire
Not so much of a real castle since it was only built in 1840, but it was built in the medieval style and is a fine example of castle architecture. Since that time the castle has had many lives including a family home, a hostel for disabled children, and a private club for fantasy games. Now with its 48 available rooms, the battle cry is "Are you ready to wake in grandeur".
7 CHILLINGHAM - Northumberland
Chillingham Castle became a fully fortified castle in 1344 and is steeped in history due to its location close to the Scottish border and the bloody border feuds. There have been at least five royal visits from reigning monarchs including Edward I, Edward III, James I, Charles I, and Edward VIII. There is a torture chamber and the castle claims to have many ghosts. The estate also claims to have the only herd of wild cattle left in the world. You can see the cattle, but only accompanied by the warden as they are still considered dangerous. They even have their own website "The Wild Beasts of Chillingham" Accommodation is in self-catering apartments available in the castle and the coaching stable. If you're ever in the neighborhood, you should at least drop by.
8 AMBERLEY - Sussex
Amberley Castle was originally built as a lodge, manor house, and then fortification for the Bishops of Chichester as early as 1103. It is still completely surrounded by a 60-foot curtain wall. Plus the town of Amberley is full of thatched cottages and quaint lanes. Spending the night in this historic castle will set you back at least £175, but more like £200 - £300 a night. http://www.amberleycastle.co.uk/
9 LUMLEY - Durham
The history of Lumley as a castle began in the 14th century when the previous manor house was converted and improved by Sir Ralph Lumley. Just like most of the castle hotels, there is a long history of bravery, treason, and succession. Choices of rooms to stay in include the castle keep and four poster rooms and suites. Another fabulous option in our top ten list. http://www.lumleycastle.com/
10 WALWORTH - Durham
Even Best Western has a Castle hotel! Parts of this castle date back to the 12th century and also include a dungeon. Rooms are available in the main castle and annex. After checking dates and rates you can stay in a room in the castle for less than £100. So if you're up near Darlington, check it out.
