Appleby Castle

What an amazing experience this is a real authentic castle stay with so much character and charm beautiful meal listening to Peter play the piano beautifully we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and look forward to returning

Had a wonderful unique stay at Appleby Castle. The welcome we received was great, the room was lovely and clean with a very comfortable bed. I can’t think of another opportunity I’ve had to stay in an original castle - totally unique and a very atmospheric place to visit. We stayed for our dinner and - oh my word - do not miss the opportunity to eat here - absolutely top notch food - it surpassed all my expectations- real high end quality ingredients and Craig the chef is a master at what he does - he really is a credit to the Appleby area and if you get the chance to visit the castle do try and eat there - the oak panelled traditional dining room is a wonderful space to sample such a beautiful tasty meal We met the owner - Mrs Nightingale - who was so warm and friendly and Peter Bass, the manager, who is an excellent pianist. I have only positive things to say about the whole experience- totally preferable stay to a “soulless” chain of hotels - we will definitely be back for another visit

Had we read the reviews prior to our visit, we would not have gone. A number of factors contributed to this. We weren’t able to leave our car in the courtyard, despite being the only guests. We then had to open the gate ourselves the following morning. We had a table booked for dinner at the pub in the village and regret being persuaded to eat at the castle - it was simply drab! The poor dining room had lost all its life. No light, nothing hung on the walls, ripped, stained furnitures. We also had a 40 minute wait for our food that we had been asked to pre order - and to then be charged £23 the following morning for our 18 month old’s meal - horrified. Breakfast was poor at best. The room itself was lovely and warm - after an upgrade fee was paid for the Tufton. Bathrobes were listed, but missing. It also stated tea and coffee maker - AKA kettle and sachets. Fairly clean - despite visible dust and flies in many areas. Lovely bathroom - although no hot water. This was however rectified instantly and we were able to use a different bathroom a short walk away. I find the check in time late and rather strict. We were waiting out in the freezing cold until 3.05. Check in was slow. I also find the extra cost to visit the tower a bit much - not something we were willing to pay. The village is lovely and the area has a lot to offer.

From the moment we walked in, we received the warmest welcome. The absolutely gorgeous owner, Mrs. Nightingale, ensured everyone was exceptionally well looked after. The beautifully cooked, traditional dinner, served in a magnificent room with a real fire place was perfectly complemented by carol singers and captivating stories that brought the rich history of the place to life. The entire evening felt like we have stepped into a move set as we were fully immersed in the real history of Great Britain. I can’t wait to be back again and to explore the place even further by visiting the Norman museum.

We went for a mid week meal which was especially nice being local to be able to dine in such wonderful surroundings. The meal was a set meal, soup, turkey, and sticky toffee pudding. The meal was very good value and tasted excellent, the sticky toffee pudding was exceptionally good. The evening was made extra special by Peter playing the piano beautifully and then giving us a history talk about the castle.