Augill Castle

Augill Castle is a wonderfully eccentric Victorian castle tucked away in the Eden Valley, perfectly positioned between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. Unlike many castle hotels that can feel formal or stuffy, Augill embraces a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel like staying at a rather grand friend's country house — albeit one with turrets, a cinema room, and an honesty bar. Built in 1841 as a grand family home, the castle has been lovingly restored by its current owners, Simon and Wendy Bennett, who have filled it with an eclectic collection of antiques, artworks, and curiosities gathered from around the world. Each of the 15 rooms is uniquely designed, ranging from the opulent Music Room with its grand piano and four-poster bed to the quirky Bothy, a converted outbuilding with its own wood-burning stove. Families are particularly well catered for, with dedicated family suites, a cinema room, extensive gardens with a treehouse, and even a herd of friendly alpacas. Communal dining is at the heart of the Augill experience. Guests gather around a large table in the dining room for hearty, home-cooked suppers using locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is a similarly generous affair. The honesty bar in the drawing room encourages mingling, and many guests find that the house-party atmosphere leads to lasting friendships. The Eden Valley location is one of England's best-kept secrets, offering stunning walking, cycling, and outdoor adventures without the crowds of the more famous national parks. The castle sits at the gateway to both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, making it an ideal base for exploring two of England's most beautiful landscapes. Augill has won numerous awards for its hospitality, sustainability, and family-friendly approach to castle living.