Augill Castle is a truly unique and wonderful place to stay, offering the two most elusive luxuries of modern life - quality space and time together. Built in the neo-Gothic style as a country retreat for a Victorian solicitor, it possesses all the castle essentials: towers, turrets, battlements, leaded windows, and unexpected staircases. This property is England's best family getaway and a top scorer in The Telegraph's round-up of England's best places for the whole family, offering exclusive use for parties of all sorts, from birthdays to reunions, shooting parties to corporate events.
Situated four miles outside the small market town of Kirkby Stephen, Augill Castle stands at the geographical centre of the British Isles, perched on its own fifteen acres of beautifully kept grounds on the very edge of the Yorkshire Dales. This prime location suits those torn between the Lake District's lakes, fells, and family attractions - it's around 45 minutes to Windermere and Bowness - and the softer charms of the Yorkshire Dales. Nearby landmarks include Musgrave Church Field and Brough Castle, both about 2 km away, and the Temperance Hall Museum of Costume and Tea Room at 6.5 km.
Augill Castle is a splendid, rich man's playground steeped in history. Each guest enjoys their own castle within a castle, complete with a private entrance, turrets, and castellations. The atmosphere transforms dramatically during school holidays when families fill the place, creating a very different energy from its usual serene state. The castle itself offers ample space, with rooms like the first-floor suite featuring a king-sized half-tester bed and bay windows, or rooms with large antique four-poster beds and working fireplaces.
The heart of Augill Castle's hospitality lies in its genuine interactions. Staff, including Simon and Wendy, are often found in the kitchen or mingling with guests, embodying a warmth that elevates the experience. For those seeking exclusive use, the castle provides a full-size honesty bar stocked with British drinks (wine is extra), and private entertainment can be arranged. The castle boasts onsite restaurants, though specific names aren't provided, the focus is on seasonal menus with festive touches.
Castle rooms, many featuring four-poster beds, offer views to the Yorkshire Dales and Lakeland Fells, often accompanied by the comforting glow of a brightly burning fire. Some suites are particularly spacious, including one with a private entrance, 1 bedroom, a seating area, and a bathroom with both a bath and shower, plus garden views and wine/champagne. Another holiday home offers 4 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, also with garden views and wine. Room amenities typically include tea and coffee facilities, flat-screen TVs with streaming services, Wi-Fi, free toiletries, and ample sitting areas. Larger rooms have dining tables and terraces, while some include fireplaces.
The Music Room at Augill has been recognised as one of Cumbria's top four restaurants in the Taste of Cumbria awards. Dining is typically dinner-party style, featuring smart pub dishes such as twice-baked cheese soufflé or Asian salmon fishcakes, served at long tables spread with colourful Emma Bridgwater crockery for a lazy feast. Breakfast is a generous affair, including freshly baked muffins, fruit salad, a variety of cereals, and cooked-to-order options ranging from pancakes to any combination of grilled items. Cakes served will usually include a mini dessert such as a trifle, crème brûlée or panna cotta. The menu focuses on the best flavours and dishes from travels around the world, prepared with the finest local produce.
Exclusive hire of the castle starts at £5800 for two nights, which includes all bedrooms, dinner, bed, and breakfast. Extras to consider are bar drinks, wine, additional food, and chosen entertainment. This all-encompassing hire package makes it a memorable option for celebrations and group getaways, offering a unique experience that transcends standard hotel stays.
While specific details on accessibility features like ramps or adapted bathrooms are not provided, the castle's historic nature suggests a focus on traditional architecture. Guests with specific needs should contact the property directly to ascertain suitability for all mobility requirements.
Augill Castle is lauded as England's best family getaway, and it's particularly magical during school holidays when families transform the atmosphere. Activities such as Easter Egg hunts with a chance to find a special golden egg are offered, promising a grand mystery prize. The intimate Library provides a separate dining space, ideal for families wanting to be entirely separate from the main dining room. The castle's grounds and inherent fairytale quality make it an ideal setting for creating lasting family memories.
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