CASTLE HOTEL
About the Castle Hotel
Castle Hotel, Eynsford - A Kentish Gem
The Castle Hotel, a historical family home owned by the Hart Dyke family, stands as a testament to a bygone era, constructed with the local flint characteristic of Kentish villages. Its Tudor Gatehouse, one of England's earliest all-brick entrances, offers a dramatic welcome, hinting at the state rooms within, adorned with intriguing portraits and armour. Situated just 40 km from London City, it presents a refined escape, offering both historical immersion and elegant comfort, making it a thoroughly enjoyable destination for discerning guests.
Location
Eynsford, a quintessential Kentish village, provides a charming backdrop for the Castle Hotel. The hotel is conveniently located near numerous attractions, including the Roman villa, Eagle Heights bird sanctuary, the lavender fields at Castle Farm, and the Brands Hatch racing circuit. For those with a historical bent, the ruins of Eynsford Castle, a free-to-enter English Heritage site, lie just opposite, while the historic town of Sevenoaks is also within easy reach. The Darent Valley Path and National Cycle Network Route 125 offer picturesque walking and cycling opportunities through the surrounding Greensand hills.
Style and Character
The Castle Hotel exudes an air of traditional English country house charm, characterized by its local flint construction, exposed beams, and steeply pitched clay tile roofs. The interior echoes this heritage, featuring grand state rooms with historical portraits and armour. Guest rooms, many offering views over the village, are appointed with original Georgian windows, fireplaces, and classic fabrics like tartan curtains. The inclusion of fur throws and quality linens adds a touch of understated luxury, creating an atmosphere that feels both authentic and inviting. The house's historical significance is palpable, offering a genuine glimpse into centuries past.
Service and Facilities
Service at the Castle Hotel is described as calm, focused, and dedicated to ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable stay. The team, comprising fantastic chefs and attentive staff, caters to guests with a commitment to hospitality. While specific facilities like a spa or gym are not detailed, the focus on dining experiences, particularly afternoon tea and the well-equipped bar, suggests a property that prioritizes guest comfort and culinary enjoyment. The hotel is also equipped to cater for all manner of events, promising a seamless experience for special occasions.
Rooms
The accommodation at Castle Hotel offers a range of rooms, many featuring charming views over Eynsford. Guests can expect period details such as original brick or Georgian fireplaces, fur throws, and tartan curtains, complemented by comfortable bedding and modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee facilities. Bathroom options vary, with some rooms featuring a shower, while others offer the indulgence of a large bath or a classic roll-top bath. Linen and towels are of good quality, and the presence of original windows, though beautiful, suggests a commitment to historical accuracy over modern insulation, which guests seeking a period property should appreciate.
Food and Drink
The Castle Hotel justly prides itself on its traditional afternoon teas, presented with white tablecloths, napkins, and vintage plates and cake stands laden with dainty sandwiches, homemade cakes, scones with jam and cream, all accompanied by pots of loose-leaf tea and freshly ground coffee. The main menu offers a diverse selection, from a signature Castle burger made with dry-aged beef to more globally inspired adventurous options. The bar is a highlight, with bartenders expertly utilizing premium spirits, cordials, and bitters to craft bespoke cocktails and classic twists. For lighter fare, a tempting selection of homemade desserts ranges from rich chocolate brownies to lighter coconut panna cotta or Eton Mess in warmer months, and comforting sticky toffee or marmalade bread and butter pudding when it's colder.
Value for Money
While specific pricing is not detailed, the emphasis on homemade desserts, traditional afternoon teas with quality accompaniments, and a well-crafted cocktail menu suggests a focus on delivering a premium experience. The unique historical setting and the dedication to authentic character likely position the Castle Hotel as a destination where the charm and attention to detail justify the price, particularly for those seeking a quintessential English countryside retreat.
Accessibility
Specific details regarding accessibility features for guests with mobility challenges are not provided. However, the description of the hotel as a historical family home suggests that some older parts of the building may present limitations. It would be advisable for potential guests with specific accessibility needs to contact the hotel directly for detailed information.
Family-Friendly
The Castle Hotel is perfectly suited for gatherings of friends or family, offering a delightful setting for special occasions like baby showers, birthdays, or Mother's Day. The option for a unique afternoon or evening tea, complete with a glass of Prosecco, adds a celebratory touch. While not explicitly detailing children's amenities, the welcoming atmosphere and the availability of charming rooms suggest it is a suitable environment for families looking for a memorable stay in a historic setting.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Pets allowed
- Security
- Coffee shop
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Housekeeping
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Special diet menus
Children
- Board games
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
Room features
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Patio
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor