World heritage site, Durham, is located in the northeast side of England and a three-hour train ride away from London. The combination of breathtaking scenery and historical attractions has made this area a popular destination. Topping the list of the most popular tourist attraction are Durham Castle, which was built in 1072, and Durham Cathedral, otherwise known as the Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin, and St. Cuthbert of Durham. Both structures are UNESCO world heritage sites and are recognized as two of the most notable landmarks in England. Considered architectural and historical marvels, these attractions continue to be used even today, although the castle has become the home of Durham University. Another historic attraction on site is the Durham Town Hall, a Grade II-listed Victorian Great Hall. While access here is limited, travelers may request private tours if they wish to explore its interiors. If you’re a nature lover, you can also visit the Durham University Botanic Garden, which covers 25 acres (10.1 hectares). Meanwhile, Wharton Park features a variety of outdoor attractions, including but not limited to a putting green, an outdoor gym, and a miniature car track. If you are looking for a luxurious stay in the region, check out the top castle hotels in and near Durham, England.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel (from USD 80)
Located west of Darlington, Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel dates back to 1189 and is surrounded by 18 acres (7.2 hectares) of lawn and woodlands. Unlike other castle hotels which feature stark interiors, this one has well-lit, modern rooms, each of which has a free WiFi connection. If you want to feel like royalty, book a room equipped with a four-poster bed in this hotel with a hot tub. Families will love the fact that there’s a playground for their children to have fun in.
There are two dining options available in the hotel - the indoor restaurant, which offers a formal, elegant dining experience, and an outdoor one, which is more casual. Buffet and full English/Irish breakfast are offered to guests.
Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel
Address: Walworth
6.73 km (4.2 mi) from Locomotion
2. The Townhouse (from USD 184)
This hotel is a Georgian townhouse located in the Old Elvet area of Durham, making many of the city’s attractions accessible even on foot. Depending on your booking, you can get a room in the main house, the townhouse, or the garden. You may even get one that comes with a hot tub or overlooks the River Wear. An amazing feature of this castle hotel in England is the themed rooms, so it’s entirely possible that each visit to the hotel will give you a completely different experience. The hotel comes with its own restaurant so you don’t have to wander far to enjoy a meal. Guests have continental, full English/Irish, and vegetarian options to choose from for breakfast. Besides the restaurant, the hotel also has a cocktail bar where guests can kick back and enjoy a few drinks after a day of exploring the sights. Sports enthusiasts can catch a match at the Durham University Cricket Club, which is just 150 m (0.09 mi) away.
OYO The Townhouse
Address: 34 Old Elvet
17.23 km (10.8 mi) from Locomotion
3. Lumley Castle Hotel (from USD 111)
Lumley Castle Hotel is a favourite choice for destination weddings, and it’s easy to see why just by looking at its facade. With its majestic structure nestled in a beautiful parkland, guests will be forgiven if they half-expect knights on horseback to ride past, as this establishment can make them feel as though they travelled back in time. Parents who wish to enjoy quality time or explore the town can avail of the babysitting services offered by the hotel. The establishment has its own restaurant. However, because of its popularity, guests are advised to make reservations to ensure that they can dine there. Full English/Irish is offered as a breakfast option to guests. All rooms have WiFi access. The castle is within driving distance to Durham, Newcastle, and Sunderland. Golf enthusiasts will love the fact that there’s a golf course just a short distance away from the hotel.
Lumley Castle Hotel
Address: Chester-Le-Street
25.95 km (16.2 mi) from Locomotion
4. Moor End Guest House (from USD 115)
Moor End Guest House is located right along River Wear. While it styles itself as a bed and breakfast, its amenities and services are more in keeping with hotels. While it was built back in 1840, rooms have been equipped with modern furnishings for guests’ comfort and convenience. Besides coffee and tea making facilities, these also come with a flat-screen TV, a hairdryer, and WiFi. Moor End Guest House also features a free electric car charging point. Those who are driving to and from the city will be glad to know that free parking is available on this property. Those who will be taking public transportation, meanwhile, will also love the fact that buses regularly pass by the area to take passengers to attractions such a Durham Castle. Breakfast options include full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals.
Moor End House Bed & Breakfast
Address: 7-8 Moor End Terrace, Durham, England, GBR, DH1 1BJ
19.12 km (11.9 mi) from Locomotion
Nearby castle hotels
5. Augill Castle in Cumbria (from USD 265)
Reasonably priced for a castle stay, but some meals felt overpriced.
Unique, self-contained 'little castle' apartment. Open fires, spacious rooms, and lovely grounds to explore.
Tucked away in a fairy tale-like wooded area, offering a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.
Excellent breakfasts with plenty of choices. Some dinners were great, but portion sizes and quality were inconsistent.
The 19th-century Augill Castle, located 43.2 miles (69.52 kilometers) from Durham, was renovated in 1997 by the current owners to turn it into an exquisite hotel for families to stay and spend quality time at. The original castle structure was retained in the new design plans. Staying in one of the rooms at this luxury castle hotel in England will leave you with an experience of living in the 19th century.
Wake up to delicious breakfast served every morning and relax in one of the family rooms as your kids play around. The on-site bar is excellent for unwinding and mingling with other visitors. The castle is accessible for wheelchair users and provides on-site free parking without reservations.
Augill Castle
Address: Leacett Lane
44.77 km (27.9 mi) from Locomotion
6. Swinton Park (from USD 523)
Luxurious but pricey, with additional charges for spa access and breakfast.
Stunning spa, beautiful parkland, EV charging, board games, and billiards.
Idyllic estate with a deer park, lakes, and a nearby golf course.
Excellent dining options, though some found the prices high and menu descriptions complex.
Located in Yorkshire, Swinton Park is a luxury 4-star hotel near Durham, that once served as the ancestral home of the Cunliffe-Lister family. Booking here will not only mean getting accommodations, it also means having access to a Bird of Prey Centre and a spa and country club, which features an indoor pool, a hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms, and a sauna and offers a variety of beauty and relaxation treatments. Guests who wish to have a memorable wedding can have the ceremony here, as the hotel holds a civil license for weddings. Staying here also puts you within close proximity to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Continental breakfast is offered. There are two restaurants on-site: Samuel’s Restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, while the Terrace Restaurant has lunch and dinner menus.
Swinton Park
Address: Masham
45.75 km (28.5 mi) from Locomotion
Durham: A city of history
Durham may not be the largest city, but it comes fully packed with attractions that are sure to attract any history lover. Certainly, there are excellent themed hotels in Durham that are great for vacationers. If, however, you want to immerse yourself in the history of this area, opt for a unique stay in Durham’s castle hotels and better understand what life was like in the Medieval era.
Frequently asked questions about top castle hotels in and near Durham, England
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