Cast yourself adrift in this castle for a romantic stay by the sea. Perched above the sandy bay of Manorbier on the Pembrokeshire National Park coastal path, the Norman fortress commands spectacular views. It remains in good shape thanks to relatively few attacks in its past.
Feel smug knowing that once the last of the day trippers have traipsed through the castle's gates, you’ll get this historic haunt to yourself. A rambling Victorian-era house (pictured), set within Manorbier's medieval walls, can sleep up to 12 people in simple but charming surrounds. There's also a quaint lodge at the top of the castle driveway with sweeping views of the fortress itself.
Part of the garrison on St Mary’s island, the star-shaped 16th-century castle was constructed under orders from Elizabeth I to ward off pirates and the Spanish armada. It's now a lovely family-run hotel, and the fortress's strategic position means it has fantastic views over the Scillies’ famed azure waters.
All flickering candlelight and low wood-beamed ceilings, the Castle Dining Room is an atmospheric setting for a feast. It was once the officers’ mess room and it conjures up visions of the fortress’s former inhabitants. Owner Robert Francis catches the crabs and lobsters himself and wines come from his winery, Holy Vale – Britain’s most southerly vineyard.
You don’t need a king’s ransom to stay at St Briavels, a 12th-century castle just on the edge of Wales that now houses a delightful youth hostel. It was once the residence of the warden of the Forest of Dean, the royal hunting ground of Henry II and subsequent monarchs.
The medieval castle then went on to be used as a debtor’s prison right up until 1842, before being turned into a hostel. Today the budget-friendly YHA lodge can sleep up to 66 in its characterful bedrooms including dormitory-style rooms in the two gatehouse towers – perfect for large groups.
Surrounded by the rolling countryside of the South Downs, Amberley Castle retains many of its original features such as its 60-foot (18m) high stone walls, battlements and gatehouse towers. It's now a romantic hotel with plenty of modern comforts.
Castles don’t get much grander than Warwick, a thousand-year-old turreted stronghold built by William the Conqueror on the banks of the River Avon. Today, the castle is part of Merlin Entertainments and hosts an array of fun medieval-themed events.
Experience a glimpse of what life may have been like for esteemed guests of the castle in one of the two opulent suites within Warwick’s 14th-century Caesar’s Tower. Guests are given the royal treatment with Champagne on arrival, a private after-hours tour of the castle and breakfast in a grand dining room.
Rather experience life as one of the commoners? The Knight’s Village, set within the castle grounds, has wooden lodges for larger groups, including four knights lodges that can sleep up to seven. Alternatively, try “glamping” medieval-style in well-equipped tents during summer.
Set over three floors in one of eight towers in the castle’s fortified walls, the Landmark Trust has created a wonderful hideaway, imbued with history, that sleeps up to five. Views from the turrets extend far across the water and over the bustling town of Caernarfon.
Land of ancient kings and fierce warriors, Northumberland’s turbulent past makes it a must-visit for castle lovers. And an overnight stay at Langley Castle Hotel is another must with its grand entrance, gorgeous grounds and splendid boudoirs.
Cloister yourself in the cosy drawing room for an indulgent afternoon tea or head off to explore the castle on one of Langley's public tours, which take in its fascinating medieval garderobe (toilet) tower, rooftop battlements and chapel.
Commanding lofty views of fertile East Lothian, this fortified 16th-century tower makes an impressive getaway for a large group of friends. Country pursuits can be arranged on the extensive grounds or it’s a mere stone’s throw from the beaches of North Berwick and 25 miles (40km) from Edinburgh.
Gaze down at the passing river traffic (mostly friendly these days) or sunbathe beneath the battlements on the rooftop of the fortress. Kingswear was restored by the Landmark Trust and turned into a two-bedroom holiday home with serious wow factor.
Mary Queen of Scots is said to have leapt from a window in Borthwick, near Edinburgh, disguised as a page to escape an army of pursuers. But you won’t want to leave this 15th-century castle in a hurry: it’s now a very fancy private house available for large groups to hire.
Stay in the cosy two-bedroom gatehouse to Morpeth Castle, all that remains of the former fortress. Built around 1300, the imposing gatehouse sits above the historic town of the same name and is a strategic position for exploring the region's numerous castles.
Pretty-as-a-picture Stogursey cottage perches by a bridge that leads over to the remains of a one-time motte-and-bailey castle. Only guests in the gatehouse can cross to explore the moated castle's ruins.
As the childhood home of ill-fated Anne Boleyn, Hever has serious royal credentials. It was later passed on to another of Henry VIII’s wives, Anne of Cleves. Today its well-preserved features and pretty gardens are largely thanks to wealthy American William Waldorf Astor, who bought, restored and extended the castle in the early 20th century.
Stay the night in the castle grounds in one of the two wings – they're Edwardian additions but they've been decorated in Tudor style and offer luxurious bed and breakfast accommodations. Self-contained four-bedroom cottage Medley Court can also be booked.
Now check out more stunning castles you've probably never heard of