Langley Castle Hotel

Langley Castle was built in 1350 by Sir Thomas de Lucy to protect his lands in Northumberland. Over the years, it passed through many families and was part of some dramatic events in English history. In the 17th century, the castle belonged to the Earls of Derwentwater. James, the third Earl, and his brother Charles joined the Jacobite rising in 1715, which tried to restore the Stuart king. Both brothers were executed, and the castle was taken by the Crown. A memorial near Haydon Bridge remembers their story.

After this, the castle was left mostly empty and was used for different purposes, including housing soldiers and later a girls’ school. In 1882, a local historian, Cadwallader Bates, bought the castle and started restoring it. After he died, his wife, Josephine, continued the work, rebuilding the chapel and keeping the medieval feel. Today, Langley Castle is a hotel, still full of its original character, where visitors can enjoy centuries of history and imagine life in the old castle walls.

Langley Castle is one of England’s few medieval fortified castle hotels, and its 14th-century architecture is impossible to miss. The original stone-arched door makes a dramatic entrance into interiors full of history. Inside, mullioned windows frame views of the peaceful private parkland, while antique furniture in rich fabrics gives the rooms a stately, welcoming feel. Spiral staircases, suits of armor, and sparkling chandeliers add character, letting guests feel the castle’s past in every corner.

The hotel has nine individually designed rooms within the main castle, each with luxurious touches and inspiring views. Castle View accommodation offers 19 contemporary rooms in a converted building just steps away, including family-friendly and twin rooms, plus two guest bedrooms at Castle View Lodge. Every space blends heritage charm with practical comforts. The hotel is wheelchair accessible, with lower bathroom sinks and toilets fitted with grab rails for added safety.

The grounds are peaceful, with 10 acres (4 hectares) of gardens, perfect for a quiet escape or dark-sky stargazing. Toll Bar Luxury Villa, a new self-catering cottage opened in 2024, offers designer interiors and medieval castle views, creating a private and romantic retreat within the estate.

Dining at Langley Castle Hotel is part of the full castle experience, whether you are staying overnight or visiting for the day. The castle’s restaurant is known as one of the finest in the North East, blending seasonal British and contemporary flavors using the freshest local produce. In the elegant Josephine Restaurant, guests enjoy a fine dining dinner from the evening menu, with options ranging from relaxed daytime dishes to a tasting experience or classic Sunday lunch. Pre‑dinner drinks in the atmospheric Drawing Room set the tone with its stained‑glass windows and roaring log fire.

For lighter fare, the Drawing Room welcomes residents and visitors alike for morning coffee, snacks, afternoon tea, or relaxed lunches in a cozy atmosphere. Whether you choose a multi‑course evening meal or a casual afternoon tea beneath glittering chandeliers, the food at Langley Castle highlights the best of the region’s produce.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea at Langley Castle is a timeless treat served in the atmospheric Drawing Room, where stained‑glass windows and cosy seating create a warm, elegant setting. Guests can relax with a three‑tiered selection of freshly made finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and a range of delicate sweet pastries and cakes. A choice of freshly brewed loose‑leaf teas or coffee accompanies the spread, and you can also upgrade to a glass of chilled Prosecco or Champagne for an extra special touch.

There are also variations, such as a heartier gentlemen’s afternoon tea with savory bites, and seasonal events that include festive or themed versions of the classic experience. Prices start from a reasonable rate per person, making it a popular choice for special occasions or a casual treat.

Opening hours: 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Langley Castle is a breathtaking setting for a wedding, blending medieval character with flexible and stylish celebrations. Couples can hold civil ceremonies in historic rooms such as the Drawing Room or Josephine Room, or choose outdoor spaces like lawn areas and woodland.

Small and intimate weddings are catered for with the “Weddings for Two” package, which includes overnight stays, sparkling wine and canapés, use of the Drawing Room for the ceremony, and full use of the castle’s grounds for photographs. For larger celebrations, the castle offers day‑only wedding packages that include your civil ceremony and a Prosecco reception. The package also features a three‑course wedding breakfast with wine, a toast of Prosecco, red or white carpet arrival, and popular spaces for receptions such as the Pavilion Restaurant, Stuart Suite, or Tipi.

Exclusive‑use weddings are available, letting you and your guests enjoy the whole castle and its bedrooms for your celebration, with tailored menus, canapés, drinks, entertainment, and overnight accommodation included. Every wedding is supported by a dedicated planning team ready to adapt packages or help design a bespoke experience, making Langley Castle a truly memorable and personal venue for your big day.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Langley Castle is the perfect starting point for adventures across Northumberland. Lace up your walking boots and follow trails through rolling hills, explore the legends of the Cheviots, or walk in the footsteps of pilgrims to Holy Island. Hadrian’s Wall is just a short drive away, perfect for a daytime trek before returning to the castle in time for afternoon tea.

If you prefer water, Langley Dam offers a fly-fishing paradise. Rainbow and blue trout await, whether you’re casting from the bank or drifting gently in a boat. Horse riders will love the Allen Valley, where each trot and canter reveals panoramic views of Roman Wall Country, Rothbury Hills, and the Cheviots. For a different thrill, clay pigeon shooting tests your focus and skill in all seasons.

Cyclists can explore miles of quiet country roads, coastlines, and scenic tracks, while golfers have championship-standard challenges at Hexham and Slaley, including the famous “Sleeping Giant” hole. For history lovers, private guided tours of Hadrian’s Wall, Northumbrian castles, and the Tyne reveal hidden stories at every turn.

Christmas at Langley Castle is magical. Picture a light dusting of snow, the crackle of the log fire in the Drawing Room, the scent of cinnamon in your coffee, and the cozy warmth of the castle walls. In December, the hotel comes alive with festive menus, warming drinks, and special seasonal gatherings, perfect for family visits or joyful get-togethers.

For New Year’s Eve, the castle hosts an elegant gala dinner with fizz and canapés, disco entertainment, a midnight piper, and fireworks to welcome the New Year. Whether you’re here for Christmas treats or ringing in January, seasonal celebrations at Langley Castle make the holidays unforgettable.

Whether for corporate meetings, training days, or private celebrations, Langley Castle offers a memorable experience with a mix of historic architecture and modern facilities. The castle accommodates two to 120 delegates, with personal support to ensure every event runs smoothly. Smaller gatherings can use The Pavilion, a bright, contemporary space for up to 30 guests, while The Stuart Suite suits larger groups with medieval stone walls, arched windows, treetop views, and flexible layouts. For private events like birthdays, anniversaries, or family gatherings, the castle provides a unique backdrop, attentive service, and access to historic rooms and grounds. Whatever the occasion, Langley Castle combines practical facilities with character to make every celebration special.