October 2025: As The Celebrity Traitors comes to a head, VisitEngland has rounded up a range of spectacular English castle stays offering fortified walls, regal décor and views fit for a VIP. From being the location stars of TV and the silver screen to acting as royal residences, England's castles offer characterful breaks which are sure to inspire roundtable debates and imaginative games in the grounds.

Six English overnight castle stays

Caesar's Tower Suites at Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Could this be England's ultimate Traitors-style sleepover spot? Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, the mighty Warwick Castle is steeped in medieval intrigue. Hidden away in the 14th Century Caesar's Tower are two regal suites fit for the most discerning of guests. Each is styled with four-poster beds, rich tapestries and dark wood furnishings for a truly historic stay. Every booking comes with a full VIP package – from champagne on arrival to breakfast, afternoon tea and even a private castle tour.

Langley Castle, Northumberland

For drama worthy of the Traitors round table, Langley Castle delivers. Dating back to the 14th Century, this magnificent fortress hotel offers nine lavishly decorated rooms steeped in stories of lords and ladies with mod-cons including underfloor heating and 24-hour in-room dining. Surrounded by nature, it's perfectly placed for exploring Hadrian's Wall or the wild beauty of Northumberland National Park. With its turrets, thick stone walls and grand interiors, Langley Castle is a stay that commands attention.

Peckforton Castle, Cheshire

If you're seeking a castle stay that blends medieval majesty with contemporary twists, Peckforton Castle is your perfect match. Built in the 1850s but styled like something straight from Arthurian legend, this Grade I-listed property comes with every contemporary comfort – underfloor heating, 24-hour dining and indulgent bedrooms, including accessible options. Expect towering turrets, four-poster beds and fine dining in true noble style. It's the ideal hideaway for modern-day traitors or faithfuls alike.

Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire  

Step into real Tudor intrigue at Thornbury Castle – once home to King Henry VIII and Queen Mary I. Guests can sleep in the very room where Henry stayed with Anne Boleyn in 1535, surrounded by rich fabrics, grand tapestries and period furnishings. Each chamber evokes the opulence and power of Tudor Britain, making it one of England's most authentic royal retreats. Perfect for those who prefer their castle stays with a side of royal scandal.

The Clock Tower Apartment at Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Few stays are as spectacular – or as cinematic – as a night within Bamburgh Castle's ancient walls. The Clock Tower apartment, set within the 13th Century tower and turret, offers sweeping views over Northumberland's dramatic coastline. The three-bedroom retreat combines antique elegance with stylish modern comfort, and guests enjoy exclusive access to the castle grounds and state rooms. This is one stay where the setting alone could steal the show.

The Royal Chamber at Hedingham Castle, Essex

Once reserved for royals, the 900-year-old Hedingham Castle now welcomes guests to its sumptuous Royal Chamber – complete with a grand four-poster bed and a deep double bath that's fit for a monarch. Formerly, visitors could only stay in nearby estate cottages, but now you can sleep within the castle's storied walls themselves. Wake to views over the medieval parkland before exploring the rolling Essex countryside – a stay steeped in history and majesty.

Five Castle Day Trips in England

If staying overnight feels slightly too treacherous, here are some of England's best castles for a day trip…

Norwich Castle, Norfolk

Opened this summer after a multi-million-pound redevelopment, the Grade I-listed Norwich Castle Keep is now the most accessible castle in the UK. Originally commissioned by William the Conqueror and completed by his son King Henry I in 1121, visitors can now access all five floors, from basement to battlements, including spectacular views across Norwich from the rooftop.

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

As the UK's second-largest inhabited castle behind Windsor, the impressive walls of Alnwick Castle have acted as a military outpost, a teaching college and a family home over the centuries. Another castle with its origins in the Norman period, the fortress in Northumberland will be recognisable to fans of Harry Potter, as the wizarding hero was filmed learning to fly a broomstick within its walls for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. The castle is no stranger to the world of film, having also featured in Downton Abbey, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and Elizabeth. Pre-booking is required.

Windsor Castle, Windsor

Just to the west of London lies the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle, having been a royal residence for around 950 years. First developed by William the Conqueror in the 11th Century, Windsor Castle is regularly used by the Queen as a weekend retreat, as well as hosting state occasions and royal weddings. The Round Tower dominates the skyline and sits atop the oldest part of the castle, while St George's Chapel acts as the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter – an order of chivalry dating back to the reign of Edward III in 1348. Advanced booking for the castle is recommended.

Highclere Castle, Hampshire

One of the stars of Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle in Hampshire provided the backdrop for the show and it's =movie spin offs. Initially a medieval palace, Highclere was transformed in the mid-19th century by Sir Charles Barry, the architectural mind behind the Houses of Parliament in London. Alongside tours of its many rooms, including those used as the state rooms from the Downton Abbey movie, you can explore gardens dating back to the 13th Century and 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, designed by the renowned landscape gardener, Capability Brown. The castle is home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, whose family have lived there since 1679, and also houses a unique display of Egyptian antiquities celebrating the 5th Earl of Carnarvon's role in the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun.

Hever Castle, Kent

With a history spanning more than 700 years, Hever Castle was the childhood home of Henry VIII's second wife, Anne Boleyn. Initially a moated defensive castle dating back to 1270, this romantic setting is packed full of Tudor portraits and tapestries, and features fine views out over Hever Lake. Set within the 125 acres of grounds is a 100-year-old Yew Maze, as well as award-winning gardens, with startlingly beautiful dahlia displays and the warming sugary scent of the Katsura tree perfuming the frosty air. Pre-booking to explore Hever Castle and its grounds is essential.

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