The Crown on Netflix is awash with gorgeous castles and country houses, showcasing the regal lives of the British royals during the reign of Queen Elizabeth 11. If the sumptuous glamor of these historical dwellings appeals to you, you may like to stay at one of the fabulous castles dotted around the United Kingdom that are available to rent.
We have compiled a list of some of our favorites, but please bear in mind that the castles may be hosting smaller numbers than usual at present due to COVID-19.
Tawstock Castle
Tawstock Castle in Devon is a stunning 18th-century castle with a fascinating history. The last castle to have been built in England, it's a family retreat sleeping eight guests in four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The small romantic castle is surrounded by a circular Grade II listed walled courtyard, and has fairytale turrets and two towers that were originally constructed as a lookout for Lord Wrey.
It offers 360 degree views over the Taw Valley and Saunton Sands, and has approximately one acre of lawned gardens enclosed by the bailey. Further information on Tawstock Castle can be found here.
Wyatt Castle
Royalty, film-makers and celebrities have stayed at Wyatt Castle in Dorset, attracted by its luxurious grandeur and neo-Gothic architecture. The nine-bedroom, nine-bathroom castle dates back to 1797 and sleeps 20 people. The landscaped gardens and terraces are set against the backdrop of the English Channel, and the individually-landscaped pathways and terraces offer opportunities for outdoor entertaining.
Other attractions include the English and Italian gardens, a waterfall, swimming pool, a tranquil Japanese tea house. Further information on booking it can be found here.
Teith Castle
Teith Castle is a lovingly-restored contemporary castle that is the private residence of Scottish artist Stuart McAlpine Miller and his wife, Nikki. The 12-bedroom, six-bathroom castle is located in the Scottish Highlands and is less than an hour’s drive away from both Glasgow and Edinburgh. It’s remote and peaceful and furnished throughout in the unique and contemporary style of its artist owners.
The castle sits in twelve acres of private grounds, including the woodland and the river, and there's a digital baby grand piano and a basement gym. The stylish property has a reception room that is 80 metres long with an honesty bar, and the dining area features “The Savoy Series” of artworks. You can find out more about booking Teith Castle here.
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The historic Devizes Castle in Wiltshire has seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, and was originally built in 1080 and rebuilt following a fire in 1120. It was used as a prison by Henry II and Henry III, and went on to become the property of Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII. The present castellated Victorian era dwelling, which is neo Norman/Gothic architecture in style, was built by the Leach family in the 19th century.
The building is now divided into three homes, and the main part of the castle is available for short-term lets. Very much a family home, it has a relaxed feel with a mix of informal and formal spaces for guests to enjoy as well as its spectacular grounds. Further information on booking it can be found here.
Acton Castle
Guests can stay in a two-bedroom apartment at the 18th-century Acton Castle in Cornwall, which enjoys a great location surrounded by farmland with stunning sea views across Penzance Bay to St Michael's Mount. It was built by distinguished botanist John Stackhouse, and as it's right on the coastal path, it is perfect for walkers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
With access to secluded coves on its doorstep, it's also an ideal location for a beach family holiday. Further information on booking Acton Castle can be found here.
Alton Castle
Constructed in the mid-19th century by John Talbot, 16th Earl of Shrewsbury, Alton Castle is a Grade II* listed building in Staffordshire. Designed by Augustus Pugin, the castle is built on a site that had been fortified in wood since Saxon times. It is set in its own spacious grounds in the picturesque village of Alton and sits majestically above the Churnet Valley.
It has eight bedrooms and a professional kitchen, although meals can be provided on request, and there are projectors and wifi for entertainment. It's just a 10-minute walk to join up with the picturesque Churnet Valley network of footpaths to explore by foot or by bicycle. Further information on Alton Castle can be found here.
Gyrn Castle
Standing in a commanding position over the Dee Estuary, Gyrn Castle is a Grade II listed late Georgian Castle in the heart of a conservation area in Flintshire. The Welsh castle is steeped in history, and was built between 1817 and 1824 by John Douglas, who incorporated parts of a previous house on the Gyrn estate that dated back to the late 17th century.
The castle has 12 bedrooms and 2000-acre grounds that include two fishing lakes. Further information on booking Gyrn Castle can be found here.
Pele Tower
Originally a fortified village refuge, the Grade 2* historically-listed Pele Tower in Northumberland was built around 1250 AD and has been recently brought up to full modern comfort. The three-bedroom castle has a log-burning stove, snooker room, fully modern kitchen and bathrooms, as well as a barrel-vaulted basement and large carved stone fireplace.
It's positioned in Whittingham Vale, just on the edge of Northumberland National Park, a dark skies park that gives great views of the Milky Way and shooting stars. You can learn more about renting Pele Tower here.
Sudeley Castle Gatehouse
Those who book this property in the Cotswolds will be staying at the former gatekeeper's house at the entrance to Sudeley Castle, but will get free entry to the castle istelf. The present structure was built in the 15th century and the castle's chapel, St. Mary's Sudeley, is the burial place of the English queen Catherine Parr (1512–1548) and contains her marble tomb.
It's a Grade I listed building, and the gatehouse has been converted and restored to provide accommodation for up to four guests. Its ancient structure is complemented with symmetrical gardens lined with iron railings and a stone courtyard in the center. Further information on booking the dog-friendly gatehouse at Sudeley Castle is available here.
The Knoll Tower
The Knoll Tower is a Victorian hunting lodge that was built in the late 1800s by the 3rd Earl of Bradford and has been recently re-furbished as self-catering accommodation. Located in Weston Park estate, it is set over three floors and sleeps two people. The roof terrace has a love seat that offers panoramic views of the Shropshire countryside and Welsh borders, and if the weather is chilly, there's a wood-burning stove and a Sonos music system throughout the property.
The tower is set among 100 acres of parkland, and an array of wildlife can be be spotted there. For further information on booking The Knoll Tower, please see here.
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