Perched atop a hill overlooking the ancient market town of Bishop's Castle, The Castle Hotel stands as a welcoming find for all manner of travellers. This historic coaching inn, steeped in the quiet charm of the Shropshire Hills, offers a restorative atmosphere and a genuine sense of place. With its sweeping views and a happy ambiance, it's a destination that invites you to linger.
Situated in a tranquil area at the very top of Bishop's Castle, the hotel offers spectacular, far-reaching views across the town and the South Shropshire Hills towards the Welsh Borders. It's a convenient base, just a 30-minute drive from the historic towns of Shrewsbury and Ludlow, and within easy reach of natural wonders like the Shropshire Hills AONB, Carding Mill Valley, and the Long Mynd. The town itself provides a small selection of quaint independent art, craft, and gift shops, contributing to its charming tranquility.
This 18th-century property retains the character of a classic coaching inn, yet offers modern comforts. Large windows with wooden shutters allow natural light to flood the peaceful interiors, creating a serene ambiance. The overall feel is one of historic charm tempered with contemporary sensibility. The hotel is also notable for being home to The Three Tuns, the oldest licensed brewery in the UK, adding a unique layer to its character.
The Castle Hotel prides itself on its friendly service, catering to walkers, cyclists, and dog lovers alike. For those on two wheels or two feet, a practical platform for hosing down bikes, boots, or dogs is a thoughtful touch. Guests can choose to dine in any of the three bars or the hotel's restaurant. For those with mobility concerns, easy wheelchair access is provided to the bars, restaurant, and toilets via the garden entrance.
All 12 individually styled rooms, spread over two floors, offer a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. Amenities include free WiFi, sound-insulated walls, and free bottled water, ensuring a comfortable stay. Modern touches such as flat-screen TVs and DVD players are standard. Some rooms feature delightful details like hot water bottles provided in drawers. Room categories range from comfortable double and twin rooms, many with mountain or garden views, to a spacious holiday home with two separate bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, ideal for families. Suites offer added conveniences like kitchenettes and dining areas.
Chefs Michelle Davies and Lloyd Payne are at the helm, producing excellent fare in generous portions. The restaurant serves a modern food menu, with standouts including a rich lamb and wild mushroom shepherd's pie topped with butternut squash mash, and a classic ale-battered haddock served with chips, minted peas, and tartare sauce. The breakfast menu is equally impressive, featuring options like crushed avocado on granary toast with poached egg and smoked salmon, kippers, French toast, and homemade pancakes. Packed lunches are available on request, perfect for exploring the surrounding countryside. The hotel also offers a fabulous outdoor seating area on its terrace and garden, which transforms into a delightful spot for dining and drinking in warmer months, complete with panoramic views of the Shropshire Hills.
The inclusion of a free full breakfast, along with the stunning views and access to the historic brewery, makes The Castle Hotel a compelling proposition. The range of room types, from standard doubles to a spacious holiday home, offers flexibility for various budgets and group sizes. It represents solid value for those seeking character, comfort, and exceptional scenery.
The hotel offers practical accessibility features, including easy wheelchair access to its bars, restaurant, and toilets via the garden entrance, ensuring a comfortable experience for guests with mobility considerations.
The accommodation options at The Castle Hotel are well-suited for families, particularly the holiday home with its two bedrooms and ample living space. The hotel also accommodates families with younger children, with options for camp beds and provisions for additional children at a supplementary fee, including breakfast.
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