Appleby Castle

1 star is removed as the chef was off ill and the restaurant was closed and had been for some time (1 week or more).The Castle itself is authentic and very interesting, and in excellent condition.It is easy to find, and quite close to the town, where there are various shops, public houses and restaurants.We switched our room from one on the top floor to a cottage, as we were tired after a day of travelling. This was well-equipped, spacious and comfortable.Breakfast was below par, with there being no pastries available, unlike their photos on-line.We were not happy that they tried to charge us for breakfast when our booking included it.Finally, our pre-booked price was £100 more than the current prices, so did feel ripped off.

Despite arriving at check-in time (1500) reception was locked, ringing the bell eventually brought assistance. We were taken to our room after a slow check-in; passing the breakfast room which might not be the breakfast room tomorrow, and the dining room which might not be the dining room tomorrow. After being shown our room (Thanet) we were informed that our en suite was across the corridor! The bedroom didn't have a wardrobe, so we had to live out of our suitcases for 3 nights. The bedroom had no working bedside lights, a kettle we had to boil on the floor, two wooden chairs so uncomfortable you couldn't sit. After our evening meal we walked through dark corridors to find our room. Overnight we used our phone torches to get from the bedroom to the bathroom. On our first morning, the only option for a hot breakfast was a full English. Why we didn't have written menus beats me! Neither of us was able to eat the sausage on our plates, an awful flavour. The milk to accompany my tea had curdled, after requesting a replacement milk we were told they were having issues with their milk deliveries. After breakfast we asked about how we got into the castle once we return from our day of touring. After appearing confused by the request to return back in the evening the stuttering response was that we would have to ring the estate manager and someone would be available, even if it was midnight when we returned. There was no way we were being given the reception access code. I couldn't shower due to the water temperature fluctuating from freezing cold to scolding hot. Breakfast on the second morning had the same issue with the curdled milk. Fresh tea and milk was brought to the table, however no cup was brought in. We were only informed of other hot breakfast options after we said no to the full English. Back in our en suite bathroom" the window blind had fallen down."

Beautiful location and a wonderful experience. Very welcoming staff. Don’t expect a modern century setting, but the rooms are clean and the food is fine. Even with 2 young children it’s a great place to stay.A real blast from the past.

We loved every minute of our two night stay here.You actually get to sleep in an authentic castle that looks how it would have done. There are quirks, creaks and floors on the wonk, but that all just adds to the charm.The food for both evening meals and both breakfasts were phenomenal, and the staff are just the best. So obliging and friendly with a genuine warms. The owner is a lovely lady who takes her time to talk to everyone.

A lovely castle, but incredibly poorly run. It took 1.5 YEARS to successfully book our stay here, despite repeated phone calls and emails. I don't know whether it was because we were using a voucher that they felt it was ok to ignore a booking. In the end we accepted the only date we were offered. The room itself was lovely, but actually getting to that point was a sisyphean struggle.

Perfect evening spent in the castle. From a desperate phone call we arrived 30 minutes later to a room ready for us.Peter, the manager, was very accommodating he even helped us download the app for the castles tour guide, which was an audio guide.It's an old charming building steeped in years upon years of history in every corner nook and cranny.The waiting staff were super friendly and always greeted with a smile, which goes a long way for us.Our room was huge, with a four-poster bed and tapestries hanging on the walls. We had a comfortable sleep in the huge soft bed, and the room was warm even though they were of the highest ceilings I've ever seen. Fresh towels and toiletries were provided in the shower rooms, which were always huge. Showers were very hot too.Breakfast was served prompt on arrival with the option of fruits cereals and cooked. We were given a massive coffee canister each, too, which was definitely needed.There is a games room where we played pool (all games are free) whilst drinking wine from the intimate bar area.Short walk out of the grounds is appleby center with afew pubs restaurants etc so plenty to do in the area.We would 100% return in the future .

The castle itself is really interesting. Spoke to the estate manager who was very helpful and gave us lots of info. The cafe, not so much. Only one person taking orders and making drinks in the cafe so took quite a while. Not much choice in food, only cake left, and most gone by the time we visited, someone playing the piano, which was nice, but very loud so difficult to converse.

The hotel keeps alive the story of lady Anne Clifford and history embodies everything in the hotel. The hotel is being restored and all of the interior furnishings are authentic antiques. We stayed in the Clifford room and the bed was incredibly comfy and the roll top bath was superb! Everything was clean and well presented. The grounds had incredible walks both during the day and in the evening with clear trails that is highly recommended. The museum on site really highlights the deep history of the castle and its owners. The owner has done an amazing job of restoring and keeping the rich history of the hotel alive.

Fabulous location overlooking the wonderful Appleby in Westmorland! So much interesting history here and the staff impart some of that on arrival. The rooms are spacious and quirky and clean. Due to its age you can forgive the lack of modern touches but why would you come to stay at a castle if you wanted modern! (Some would). We had an evening meal here which was beautiful! Fresh Lamb with seasonal veg and it was cooked very well. Breakfast was also very good, cooked breakfast option with local ingredients and plenty on the continental to accompany! And really good coffee from a self confessed coffee snob! I would stay here again, it’s interesting and has so much character, you are allowed to explore within the castle too!

Well worth the visit as it is an excellent historical place with fantastic management via Peter and with a fabulous owner in Mrs Nightingale you honestly couldn't ask for any more and you will most certainly revisit once you have discovered this True historical gem of Northern England situated in Appleby a credit to the Cumbrian Lake District . My wife and I are so glad we found this place for its solitude and sophistication in its ownership and management.