Appleby Castle
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Summary of reviewsAppleby Castle offers an enchanting destination, blending historical charm with modern comforts, earning high praise from guests. Nestled within the quaint village of Appleby, the castle is surrounded by stunning scenery and well-maintained grounds. Its rich history and beautifully decorated rooms transport visitors to a bygone era with rustic rooms, beautifully carved furniture and authentic ambiance creating a unique and privileged stay.
The breakfast experience evokes mixed reactions; while the grand dining room and ambiance are highly praised, service speed and value for money received some criticism. Dinner, however, consistently delights with high-quality meals, atmospheric dining settings and exceptional service. The castle’s dining rooms, including a 15th-century hall, enhance the overall magical experience.
Rooms at Appleby Castle are frequently described as spacious, clean and comfortable, featuring luxurious four-poster beds and modern bathroom amenities. While some guests noted areas needing renovation and occasional maintenance issues, the historic charm of the property largely overshadowed these minor inconveniences.
Cleanliness generally meets guests' standards with modern, spotless bathrooms and tidy rooms. However, some noted issues like dust and insects, indicating room for improvement in maintaining harder-to-reach areas.
Staff at Appleby Castle are highlighted for their friendliness, helpfulness and dedication, notably enhancing the overall guest experience. Occasional understaffing and training lapses were mentioned, but the team’s warmth and hospitality often compensated for these shortcomings.
Although Wi-Fi connectivity is limited and parking can be challenging, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall experience. Family-friendly features, such as a games room, expansive grounds and historical dungeons, make it an enjoyable destination for both adults and children.
Comfortable beds are a standout feature with many guests noting the exceptional quality and comfort of the four-poster beds. Despite occasional complaints of noise or firmness, the majority of feedback is highly positive.
Appleby Castle is also a superb choice for romantic getaways, offering candlelit dinners, regal four-poster beds and intimate settings that make guests feel like royalty. Overall, Appleby Castle provides a distinctive and memorable escape, perfect for those seeking a blend of history, romance and relaxation.
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The breakfast experience evokes mixed reactions; while the grand dining room and ambiance are highly praised, service speed and value for money received some criticism. Dinner, however, consistently delights with high-quality meals, atmospheric dining settings and exceptional service. The castle’s dining rooms, including a 15th-century hall, enhance the overall magical experience.
Rooms at Appleby Castle are frequently described as spacious, clean and comfortable, featuring luxurious four-poster beds and modern bathroom amenities. While some guests noted areas needing renovation and occasional maintenance issues, the historic charm of the property largely overshadowed these minor inconveniences.
Cleanliness generally meets guests' standards with modern, spotless bathrooms and tidy rooms. However, some noted issues like dust and insects, indicating room for improvement in maintaining harder-to-reach areas.
Staff at Appleby Castle are highlighted for their friendliness, helpfulness and dedication, notably enhancing the overall guest experience. Occasional understaffing and training lapses were mentioned, but the team’s warmth and hospitality often compensated for these shortcomings.
Although Wi-Fi connectivity is limited and parking can be challenging, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall experience. Family-friendly features, such as a games room, expansive grounds and historical dungeons, make it an enjoyable destination for both adults and children.
Comfortable beds are a standout feature with many guests noting the exceptional quality and comfort of the four-poster beds. Despite occasional complaints of noise or firmness, the majority of feedback is highly positive.
Appleby Castle is also a superb choice for romantic getaways, offering candlelit dinners, regal four-poster beds and intimate settings that make guests feel like royalty. Overall, Appleby Castle provides a distinctive and memorable escape, perfect for those seeking a blend of history, romance and relaxation.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Located in Appleby-in-Westmorland, this hotel provides access to Appleby Golf Club. The hotel is a unique and historic place to stay.
Hotel with Parking
Guests benefit from free parking available directly within the castle grounds, offering both convenience and a secure place to park.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Small Hotel
Guest Reviews
Nestled in the charming village of Appleby, Appleby Castle boasts an exceptional location that has been highly praised by guests. The castle's historic and scenic surroundings provide a stunning backdrop that transports visitors to a bygone era, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern comforts.
Guests are enchanted by the castle's beautiful grounds, lovely walks around the moat and perfect setting that exudes history and authenticity. The nearby town of Appleby adds to the allure with its delightful river and architecture, complementing the castle's magical atmosphere.
The property is described as fabulously decorated and well-maintained, providing an intriguing escape from city life. The staff receive high marks for their friendliness and dedication, enhancing the overall experience. Historical features, rustic rooms and beautifully carved furniture contribute to the authentic ambiance, making the stay feel truly special and privileged.
With brilliant views and stunning surroundings, Appleby Castle offers a superb location for both relaxation and exploration. Whether walking through its gardens or dining in its historic halls, guests are treated to an exceptional experience steeped in heritage and beauty.
At Appleby Castle, the breakfast experience evokes mixed reactions from guests. Despite some criticisms about value and service speed, the setting consistently wins praise. Diners often find themselves in awe of the historic and grand dining room, complete with a harpsichord and beautiful refectory tables, contributing to a memorable ambiance. The atmosphere is further enriched by the occasional presence of a suit of armor, accentuating the castle's unique charm.
The quality of breakfast items ranged from superbly cooked full English options to succulent smoked salmon with poached eggs, both of which were generally well-received. However, the continental breakfast options often left much to be desired with numerous guests noting the lack of variety and quality.
Service speed appeared to be a recurrent issue with wait times extending longer than expected. Despite this, some guests highlighted the friendliness and efforts of the serving staff. Another recurring point was the perceived value for money; while some feasted on delicious, locally-sourced breakfasts, others felt their meals were overpriced or not up to standard.
Overall, while the breakfasts at Appleby Castle present a mixed bag, the enchanting dining setting and select delicious offerings do make for a potentially pleasant start to the day. Careful consideration of the cost and menu options, however, might be prudent.
Appleby Castle offers a unique dining experience with many guests praising the great atmosphere, often enhanced by live piano music and candlelit settings. The food at the castle appears to receive high marks for quality with many remarking on delicious and superb meals, especially the five-course tasting menus that were described as fabulous and extremely tasty. The dining rooms, including a 15th-century hall, were noted to be atmospheric and added to the overall experience.
Guests particularly enjoyed their three-course meals, fine dining options and the prompt service of the food. The bar was described as cosy and intimate, contributing to an enjoyable evening. The castle's ability to deliver meals that were both homely and well-cooked with dishes served in keeping with the historical ambiance, also stood out.
However, some reviews pointed out inconsistencies with certain meals being overpriced or lacking in quality. Issues such as cold soup, chewy duck and service delays were noted, suggesting room for improvement in consistency and staff training. Despite these occasional hiccups, the exemplary dishes and the overall enchanting dining environment seemed to leave a lasting positive impression on most guests.
Appleby Castle offers a historical and unique experience with its grand bedrooms and impressive original features. Guests frequently highlight the comfort of the beds, many of which are large and plush four-poster types, ensuring a good night's sleep. The rooms are often described as spacious, beautifully decorated and clean. A particular mention goes to the spa baths and the lovely hot showers that add a touch of modern luxury.
The castle’s ambiance with its rustic rooms and corridors, envelops visitors in a sense of the past, making it a bucket list choice for those wanting to stay in an authentic castle. The public areas, including large halls and smaller living rooms with fireplaces, add to the charm and historic feel of the property.
While the majority of the reviews are positive, there are occasional mentions of areas that need renovation, rooms that felt dark or lacked natural light and some that were quite basic. A few guests noted issues such as creaky beds, lack of amenities like TVs and in rare cases, unattractive views or unexpected discoveries like mouse traps.
Overall, the combination of comfortable beds, cleanliness and historical ambiance makes Appleby Castle a distinctive place to stay for those who appreciate its unique charm and are looking for a memorable experience.
Appleby Castle's reviews frequently highlight the beds as a notable feature with many guests praising them for their comfort. Visitors have described the beds as very comfortable, super comfy and exceptionally comfortable with some even deeming the experience the most comfortable they've ever had away from home. The four-poster beds and large bed sizes add to the sense of luxury and importance felt by guests. The bedding and mattresses are often cited as being particularly clean and of high quality, enhancing the overall sleep experience.
However, it's not all perfect—the reviews also mention a few issues with the beds. Some guests found the beds noisy or not level, which affected their sleep. There were also instances where the bed was too firm or the space around it was limited. A few reviews noted discomfort with metal beds and the presence of stains on sofa bed mattresses.
On balance, the majority of feedback leans positively towards the comfort and quality of the beds, making Appleby Castle a noteworthy choice for travelers prioritizing a good night's rest.
Appleby Castle offers an enchanting stay with its well-maintained, historic architecture and character-filled interiors. Guests are generally pleased with the cleanliness of the rooms, highlighting that they are tidy and comfortable. The bathrooms are particularly noted for being modern, spacious and spotless. Several visitors appreciated the clean windows with shutters and the comfortable beds with plush linens.
However, experiences seem to vary regarding overall cleanliness. Some guests noted issues such as dust, cobwebs and the presence of insects. There were also mentions of cleaning staff-related issues and occasional lapses in hygiene, particularly in harder-to-reach areas. Some common areas were not up to expected standards with cleanliness concerns reported in the dining room and regarding some crockery at breakfast.
Despite these issues, the castle's unique charm and the novelty of staying in a historic property continue to attract guests with many willing to overlook minor inconveniences for the distinctive experience it offers. However, some operational difficulties, such as understaffing, have been noted, which may impact overall service quality. Nonetheless, for those captivated by the allure of staying in a centuries-old castle, Appleby Castle remains a compelling choice.
Appleby Castle delivers a distinctive experience, largely thanks to its staff, who are often described as exceptionally friendly, helpful and hardworking. Guests highlight that the team, including managers like Ray and Peter, consistently go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Peter, in particular, is noted for his delightful piano performances during dinner, adding a unique touch to the dining experience. Guests frequently praise the staff's combination of professionalism and friendly informality with many describing the team as charming, accommodating and always willing to assist.
Despite their best efforts, some reviews indicate that the castle could benefit from more staff, as the existing team often appeared stretched thin. This sometimes led to longer wait times and moments of disorganization, particularly during breakfast service. While a few comments suggest occasional lapses in training or customer service skills, the overwhelming sentiment is that the staff's friendly and helpful nature makes up for these shortcomings.
The owner and management receive high praise for their engagement and dedication with several guests appreciating their personal attention and willingness to enhance their stay. Even with limited staff, the sense of camaraderie and the warm welcome provided leave a lasting impression on visitors, making Appleby Castle a charming and memorable destination.
A stay at Appleby Castle offers a fascinating dive into history with its ancient charm and historical ambiance. Guests can expect a tranquil and immersive experience, perfect for disconnecting from the daily hustle. However, anyone expecting modern conveniences like Wi-Fi should manage their expectations as connectivity within the premises seems sparse and inconsistent. While there are areas designated for Wi-Fi access, it's generally limited or not available in several rooms, including those on the third floor. This makes Appleby Castle an excellent choice for those looking to truly step back in time and enjoy a break from technology, but less ideal for those requiring reliable internet for work or other purposes.
Guests have shared mixed experiences regarding parking at Appleby Castle. Many appreciated that parking was free and convenient with allowances even for the day after check-out. Despite this, several reviews indicate that the parking area is situated away from the hotel, which posed some challenges, particularly in the dark due to inadequate lighting. The signage was described as indistinct, making it difficult to find parking in low light conditions. Additionally, poor weather conditions could exacerbate these issues, making it less convenient for those arriving late or during inclement weather. Some guests noted the walk from the car park to the hotel as fairly long and having to park on the road outside was occasionally necessary. On a more positive note, for those willing to deal with minor inconveniences, overall, the parking was functional and without cost.
Appleby Castle offers a variety of activities that have captivated its young guests. The games room, filled with old games, has been a standout feature, providing endless entertainment for children. The grounds also offer ample space for families to explore, making for enjoyable walks with kids. Many families, including those with young children, have found the castle's unique atmosphere delightful with its spooky charm especially appealing to the imagination of the little ones.
Outdoor play areas add another layer of excitement, allowing children to stretch their legs and play freely. The castle's dungeons intrigue young explorers, adding an adventurous twist to their stay. Despite a few remarks about it not being overly child-friendly in some aspects, overall, families found their stays to be memorable and special with children eager to return. The family-oriented amenities, such as cooking facilities, also received positive mentions, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a family getaway.
Appleby Castle offers an unparalleled romantic experience, nestled within a beautiful historical setting. The ambiance of staying in a castle is nothing short of breathtaking with features like four-poster beds adorned with tapestries adding to the regal atmosphere. Many guests remark that their stays made them feel like royalty, highlighting the castle's blend of history and romance.
The castle is a perfect spot to spark romance in any relationship, accentuated by intimate settings and candlelit dinners. Dining in the castle under the soft glow of candles creates a memorable and romantic atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. Guests often describe the setting as beautiful and jaw-dropping, ideal for weddings or a special weekend away.
The charming and welcoming owner, along with the friendly service provided by attentive staff, contributes to the overall fantastic experience. Moments like being there when the castle is closed to the public and sharing meals with other guests make the stay feel exclusive and intimate.
Overall, the peaceful and comfortable ambiance, combined with the unique character of the castle, makes Appleby Castle a brilliant choice for a romantic getaway.
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Location
Guests are enchanted by the castle's beautiful grounds, lovely walks around the moat and perfect setting that exudes history and authenticity. The nearby town of Appleby adds to the allure with its delightful river and architecture, complementing the castle's magical atmosphere.
The property is described as fabulously decorated and well-maintained, providing an intriguing escape from city life. The staff receive high marks for their friendliness and dedication, enhancing the overall experience. Historical features, rustic rooms and beautifully carved furniture contribute to the authentic ambiance, making the stay feel truly special and privileged.
With brilliant views and stunning surroundings, Appleby Castle offers a superb location for both relaxation and exploration. Whether walking through its gardens or dining in its historic halls, guests are treated to an exceptional experience steeped in heritage and beauty.
Breakfast
The quality of breakfast items ranged from superbly cooked full English options to succulent smoked salmon with poached eggs, both of which were generally well-received. However, the continental breakfast options often left much to be desired with numerous guests noting the lack of variety and quality.
Service speed appeared to be a recurrent issue with wait times extending longer than expected. Despite this, some guests highlighted the friendliness and efforts of the serving staff. Another recurring point was the perceived value for money; while some feasted on delicious, locally-sourced breakfasts, others felt their meals were overpriced or not up to standard.
Overall, while the breakfasts at Appleby Castle present a mixed bag, the enchanting dining setting and select delicious offerings do make for a potentially pleasant start to the day. Careful consideration of the cost and menu options, however, might be prudent.
Dinner
Guests particularly enjoyed their three-course meals, fine dining options and the prompt service of the food. The bar was described as cosy and intimate, contributing to an enjoyable evening. The castle's ability to deliver meals that were both homely and well-cooked with dishes served in keeping with the historical ambiance, also stood out.
However, some reviews pointed out inconsistencies with certain meals being overpriced or lacking in quality. Issues such as cold soup, chewy duck and service delays were noted, suggesting room for improvement in consistency and staff training. Despite these occasional hiccups, the exemplary dishes and the overall enchanting dining environment seemed to leave a lasting positive impression on most guests.
Rooms
The castle’s ambiance with its rustic rooms and corridors, envelops visitors in a sense of the past, making it a bucket list choice for those wanting to stay in an authentic castle. The public areas, including large halls and smaller living rooms with fireplaces, add to the charm and historic feel of the property.
While the majority of the reviews are positive, there are occasional mentions of areas that need renovation, rooms that felt dark or lacked natural light and some that were quite basic. A few guests noted issues such as creaky beds, lack of amenities like TVs and in rare cases, unattractive views or unexpected discoveries like mouse traps.
Overall, the combination of comfortable beds, cleanliness and historical ambiance makes Appleby Castle a distinctive place to stay for those who appreciate its unique charm and are looking for a memorable experience.
Beds
However, it's not all perfect—the reviews also mention a few issues with the beds. Some guests found the beds noisy or not level, which affected their sleep. There were also instances where the bed was too firm or the space around it was limited. A few reviews noted discomfort with metal beds and the presence of stains on sofa bed mattresses.
On balance, the majority of feedback leans positively towards the comfort and quality of the beds, making Appleby Castle a noteworthy choice for travelers prioritizing a good night's rest.
Cleanliness
However, experiences seem to vary regarding overall cleanliness. Some guests noted issues such as dust, cobwebs and the presence of insects. There were also mentions of cleaning staff-related issues and occasional lapses in hygiene, particularly in harder-to-reach areas. Some common areas were not up to expected standards with cleanliness concerns reported in the dining room and regarding some crockery at breakfast.
Despite these issues, the castle's unique charm and the novelty of staying in a historic property continue to attract guests with many willing to overlook minor inconveniences for the distinctive experience it offers. However, some operational difficulties, such as understaffing, have been noted, which may impact overall service quality. Nonetheless, for those captivated by the allure of staying in a centuries-old castle, Appleby Castle remains a compelling choice.
Staff
Despite their best efforts, some reviews indicate that the castle could benefit from more staff, as the existing team often appeared stretched thin. This sometimes led to longer wait times and moments of disorganization, particularly during breakfast service. While a few comments suggest occasional lapses in training or customer service skills, the overwhelming sentiment is that the staff's friendly and helpful nature makes up for these shortcomings.
The owner and management receive high praise for their engagement and dedication with several guests appreciating their personal attention and willingness to enhance their stay. Even with limited staff, the sense of camaraderie and the warm welcome provided leave a lasting impression on visitors, making Appleby Castle a charming and memorable destination.
Wi-Fi
Parking
Family
Outdoor play areas add another layer of excitement, allowing children to stretch their legs and play freely. The castle's dungeons intrigue young explorers, adding an adventurous twist to their stay. Despite a few remarks about it not being overly child-friendly in some aspects, overall, families found their stays to be memorable and special with children eager to return. The family-oriented amenities, such as cooking facilities, also received positive mentions, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a family getaway.
Romantic
The castle is a perfect spot to spark romance in any relationship, accentuated by intimate settings and candlelit dinners. Dining in the castle under the soft glow of candles creates a memorable and romantic atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. Guests often describe the setting as beautiful and jaw-dropping, ideal for weddings or a special weekend away.
The charming and welcoming owner, along with the friendly service provided by attentive staff, contributes to the overall fantastic experience. Moments like being there when the castle is closed to the public and sharing meals with other guests make the stay feel exclusive and intimate.
Overall, the peaceful and comfortable ambiance, combined with the unique character of the castle, makes Appleby Castle a brilliant choice for a romantic getaway.
No, Appleby Castle doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Appleby Castle.
No, Appleby Castle doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Appleby Castle.
No, Appleby Castle doesn't have a gym.
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