Sleeping like royalty: Castle stays are growing in popularity
Travel Sleeping like royalty: Castle stays are growing in popularity
Guests can enjoy a daily afternoon tea service at many castle hotels, including Ashford Castle. (Red Carnation Hotels/Travepulse/TNS)
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Inspired by popular historical drama series and social media, a growing travel trend encourages travelers heading to Europe to enjoy a different accommodation style than a hotel or private cottage: castles.
Castles, especially in the United Kingdom and Ireland, increasingly turn to the travel industry for historic preservation. They're being restored and refashioned into luxury hotels and vacation rentals for travelers, sustaining both the local communities and the structure's unique architecture and story.
But why are they becoming more popular? What's behind the trend? And what should travelers know about staying at these historic properties?
Why are castle stays a growing trend?
There are many reasons people want to stay at historic castles instead of traditional hotels, especially in destinations like the United Kingdom.
By watching historical dramas and traveling with heritage in mind, travelers are inspired by the past and want to immerse themselves in history, admire historic architecture and enjoy peace and quiet in a secluded area away from city life.
Don't believe me? Brendan Vacations, a well-known tour operator specializing in travel to the U.K. and Ireland, has seen a growing interest in itineraries that offer at least one stay in a castle. In 2024, nearly 60% of bookings included at least one overnight stay in a castle. This year, 70% of the operator's bookings will include an overnight stay in a castle.
"More travelers are seeking immersive experiences that bring a destination's history and culture to life," Catherine Reilly, managing director of Brendan Vacations, explains. "From distinctive accommodations to memorable dining, they want stays that leave a lasting impression. Ireland and Scotland conjure images of grand estates, medieval knights and royal courts - romantic visions fueled by both history and popular shows like "Outlander" and "Bridgerton."
"Whether drawn to real historical sites or inspired by period dramas, many visitors are eager to explore or even spend the night in a castle, indulging in the fantasy of living like royalty."
Castle hotels also offer experiences that travelers can't have at a hotel, no matter how many stars it might have.
Ashford Castle is one such castle hotel. Located in County Mayo, Ireland, the five-star castle hotel boasts 800 years of history, luxury accommodations and plenty of unique experiences.
"Home to Ireland's oldest established falconry school, guests can enjoy this unique tradition alongside activities such as fishing, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, archery, scenic heritage walks, and tennis," explained Nial Rochford, Managing Director at Ashford Castle. "Each experience is designed to encourage guests to slow down, spend time outdoors, and share meaningful moments in a place full of character and stories. The castle also features a luxury spa …"
A castle stay is often the choice of luxury travelers looking to enjoy all a destination has to offer.
Even travel advisers have noticed the growing trend.
"I've absolutely noticed an uptick in clients wanting to stay in a castle over the past few years. Most especially in Ireland - it seems every request I get for Ireland wants to spend a few nights in a castle," said Heather Grodin, CTA-ACC Travel Planner Affiliated with MEI & Mouse Fan Travel.
"Clients are seeing these castle hotels all over social media, or even their favorite TV shows, and they're wanting to experience that for themselves," Grodin continued. "It's the whole 'when in Rome' mentality - when else will they have that opportunity and they're taking advantage of it!"
The difference between castle hotels and rentals
Kilmartin Castle, Vrbo, castle stays, castles, luxury rentals
Kilmartin Castle is a renovated and privately owned Vrbo in Scotland that dates back to the 1500s. (Photo Credit: Vrbo)
While castle stays are becoming more popular, not all are alike. They can typically be split into two categories: castle hotels, which function just as traditional hotels, and privately owned vacation rentals, which are rented like a Vrbo or Airbnb.
There are a few differences. Vacation rental castles can be great options for large groups, friends or families, special speaker events or big celebrations like destination weddings. They can offer different amenities than a more traditional hotel experience.
Owners Stef Burgon and Simon Hunt restored and transformed Kilmartin Castle into the fairy tale Scottish castle escape that it is today. A popular Vrbo, the castle provides a private chef, veggie garden and local guides who offer experiences ranging from foraging to archaeologist-led history excursions.
"We have noticed a significant rise in travelers seeking unique experiences beyond traditional hotels, said Burgon and Hunt. "With the prominence of social media, people are eager to share memorable moments, and staying in a castle provides the ideal backdrop for that."
"Furthermore, after the pandemic, many are in search of safe, spacious and picturesque retreats, qualities that castles offer in abundance," they said. "Travelers now prioritize experiences over materialism, and the chance to stay in a historic castle resonates deeply with that modern traveler desire."
Castle rentals are typically quite pricey, so if you aren't traveling in a big group, booking a castle hotel might be more cost-effective. Castle hotels may provide more amenities, on-site experiences, and dining and wellness opportunities than a vacation rental.
Lough Eske Castle Hotel is a 5-star castle hotel in County Donegal, Ireland. The stunning property offers a luxury hotel stay within a 150-year-old castle and opportunities to immerse guests in Irish culture with archery, falconry and traditional Irish music performances.
"While Lough Eske Castle boasts all the modern amenities one would expect from a luxury hotel, it retains its timeless historical charm," said Dónal Cox, General Manager of Lough Eske. "Guests will enjoy a unique combination of opulent comfort and rich heritage, with the castle's elegant architecture and interiors steeped in history…"
"Don't miss the opportunity to savor gourmet dining that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and be sure to treat yourself to the traditional afternoon tea served in the castle's cozy drawing rooms - a delightful way to immerse yourself in the castle's regal atmosphere."
Tips on how to sleep like royalty
So, what should you or your clients know about planning a stay at a castle?
The first is that no two castles are the same - and that's true from the experiences available at the castle to the castle's general accessibility.
Suppose you or your clients have any physical mobility challenges. In that case, it's going to be essential to research the individual accessibility of any accommodation you book, especially so for a castle, as some might not have elevators, ramps or other accessibility offerings. If the website doesn't provide adequate information, contact the general manager directly to inquire.
"With many castles dating back to the European feudal era, from Medieval to Renaissance times, these structures were not created with thoughts of elevator access; modern heating and cooling requirements or for that matter, spa facilities," explained Camilla Davidson, the UK & Ireland and France Specialist at Red Savannah.
"In many cases, guests could expect steep staircases – with no lift access for luggage; rudimentary air conditioning [if at all] or worse still, accommodation with a modern wing or ugly purpose-built separate building, not remotely resembling the chivalric dream of the main castle property."
Travelers should consider working with a travel adviser or tour operator to avoid accessibility pitfalls and ensure they book the best castle stay for them.
"...Many are not as ADA-friendly as the U.S. standard," explains Ronda Helton, Owner and Luxury Travel Designer of The Travel Connection Group. "I was in France last week and was staying in the Loire Valley. The hotel was only two floors high, and no elevator was available."
"For some, this is not a big deal, but to others, it's a complete deal breaker," said Helton. "Also, the grounds may be cobblestones or rough, making it difficult to walk. Handrails are often absent as well."
Beyond accessibility, some castles might offer different experiences due to the region or other factors. It's also important to consider how you will be arriving at the castle, as many are located in more remote country areas and require a vehicle transfer or car rental.
"When looking for a castle property, travelers really need to be mindful of location. Choose a property that fits into your itinerary so you're not driving far out of your way to get to one," explains Heather Grodin. "They'll also want to be aware of the amenities offered. Castles can offer dinner shows, falconry, skeet shooting, hunting, golf - the list is endless.
"But not every castle offers all of these things," Grodin said. "So decide ahead of time what is important to you and select a castle that offers or specializes in that activity."
No matter what, research and expert help will always improve your chances of finding the perfect place to sleep like royalty.
________
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This story was originally published May 5, 2025 at 11:56 AM.
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Epoch Times
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Sleeping Like Royalty: Castle Stays Are Growing in Popularity
By Lacey Pfalz TravelPulse Inspired by popular historical drama series and social media, a growing travel trend encourages travelers heading to Europe to enjoy a different accommodation style than a hotel or private cottage: castles. Castles, especially in the United Kingdom and Ireland, increasingly turn to the travel industry for historic preservation. They're being restored and refashioned into luxury hotels and vacation rentals for travelers, sustaining both the local communities and the structure's unique architecture and story. But why are they becoming more popular? What's behind the trend? And what should travelers know about staying at these historic properties? A Brendan Vacation private chauffeur and guest in front of Dromoland Castle. Brendan Vacations/Travepulse/TNS Why Are Castle Stays a Growing Trend? There are many reasons people want to stay at historic castles instead of traditional hotels, especially in destinations like the United Kingdom. By watching historical dramas and traveling with heritage in mind, travelers are inspired by the past and want to immerse themselves in history, admire historic architecture and enjoy peace and quiet in a secluded area away from city life. Related Stories 4/29/2025 4/27/2025 Don't believe me? Brendan Vacations, a well-known tour operator specializing in travel to the U.K. and Ireland, has seen a growing interest in itineraries that offer at least one stay in a castle. In 2024, nearly 60 percent of bookings included at least one overnight stay in a castle. This year, 70 percent of the operator's bookings will include an overnight stay in a castle. 'More travelers are seeking immersive experiences that bring a destination's history and culture to life,' Catherine Reilly, managing director of Brendan Vacations, explains. 'From distinctive accommodations to memorable dining, they want stays that leave a lasting impression. Ireland and Scotland conjure images of grand estates, medieval knights, and royal courts—romantic visions fueled by both history and popular shows like 'Outlander' and 'Bridgerton.' 'Whether drawn to real historical sites or inspired by period dramas, many visitors are eager to explore or even spend the night in a castle, indulging in the fantasy of living like royalty.' Castle hotels also offer experiences that travelers can't have at a hotel, no matter how many stars it might have. Guests can enjoy a daily afternoon tea service at many castle hotels, including Ashford Castle. Red Carnation Hotels/Travepulse/TNS Ashford Castle is one such castle hotel. Located in County Mayo, Ireland, the five-star castle hotel boasts 800 years of history, luxury accommodations and plenty of unique experiences. 'Home to Ireland's oldest established falconry school, guests can enjoy this unique tradition alongside activities such as fishing, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, archery, scenic heritage walks, and tennis,' explained Nial Rochford, Managing Director at Ashford Castle. 'Each experience is designed to encourage guests to slow down, spend time outdoors, and share meaningful moments in a place full of character and stories. The castle also features a luxury spa …' A castle stay is often the choice of luxury travelers looking to enjoy all a destination has to offer. Even travel advisers have noticed the growing trend. 'I've absolutely noticed an uptick in clients wanting to stay in a castle over the past few years. Most especially in Ireland—it seems every request I get for Ireland wants to spend a few nights in a castle,' said Heather Grodin, CTA-ACC Travel Planner Affiliated with MEI & Mouse Fan Travel. 'Clients are seeing these castle hotels all over social media, or even their favorite TV shows, and they're wanting to experience that for themselves,' Grodin continued. 'It's the whole 'when in Rome' mentality—when else will they have that opportunity and they're taking advantage of it!' Archery is one of the many experiences guests can enjoy at Ashford Castle. Red Carnation Hotels/Travepulse/TNS The Difference Between Castle Hotels and Rentals While castle stays are becoming more popular, not all are alike. They can typically be split into two categories: castle hotels, which function just as traditional hotels, and privately owned vacation rentals, which are rented like a Vrbo or Airbnb. There are a few differences. Vacation rental castles can be great options for large groups, friends or families, special speaker events, or big celebrations like destination weddings. They can offer different amenities than a more traditional hotel experience. Owners Stef Burgon and Simon Hunt restored and transformed Kilmartin Castle into the fairy tale Scottish castle escape that it is today. A popular Vrbo, the castle provides a private chef, veggie garden, and local guides who offer experiences ranging from foraging to archaeologist-led history excursions. 'We have noticed a significant rise in travelers seeking unique experiences beyond traditional hotels, said Burgon and Hunt. 'With the prominence of social media, people are eager to share memorable moments, and staying in a castle provides the ideal backdrop for that.' 'Furthermore, after the pandemic, many are in search of safe, spacious, and picturesque retreats, qualities that castles offer in abundance,' they said. 'Travelers now prioritize experiences over materialism, and the chance to stay in a historic castle resonates deeply with that modern traveler desire.' Castle rentals are typically quite pricey, so if you aren't traveling in a big group, booking a castle hotel might be more cost-effective. Castle hotels may provide more amenities, on-site experiences, and dining and wellness opportunities than a vacation rental. Lough Eske Castle Hotel is a 5-star castle hotel in County Donegal, Ireland. The stunning property offers a luxury hotel stay within a 150-year-old castle and opportunities to immerse guests in Irish culture with archery, falconry and traditional Irish music performances. 'While Lough Eske Castle boasts all the modern amenities one would expect from a luxury hotel, it retains its timeless historical charm,' said Dónal Cox, General Manager of Lough Eske. 'Guests will enjoy a unique combination of opulent comfort and rich heritage, with the castle's elegant architecture and interiors steeped in history…' 'Don't miss the opportunity to savor gourmet dining that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and be sure to treat yourself to the traditional afternoon tea served in the castle's cozy drawing rooms - a delightful way to immerse yourself in the castle's regal atmosphere.' Tips on How to Sleep like Royalty So, what should you or your clients know about planning a stay at a castle? The first is that no two castles are the same—and that's true from the experiences available at the castle to the castle's general accessibility. The Basil Brooke room inside the Lough Eske Castle Hotel. Lough Eske Castle Hotel/Travepulse/TNS Suppose you or your clients have any physical mobility challenges. In that case, it's going to be essential to research the individual accessibility of any accommodation you book, especially so for a castle, as some might not have elevators, ramps, or other accessibility offerings. If the website doesn't provide adequate information, contact the general manager directly to inquire. 'With many castles dating back to the European feudal era, from Medieval to Renaissance times, these structures were not created with thoughts of elevator access; modern heating and cooling requirements or for that matter, spa facilities,' explained Camilla Davidson, the UK & Ireland and France Specialist at Red Savannah. 'In many cases, guests could expect steep staircases—with no lift access for luggage; rudimentary air conditioning [if at all], or worse still, accommodation with a modern wing or ugly purpose-built separate building, not remotely resembling the chivalric dream of the main castle property.' Travelers should consider working with a travel adviser or tour operator to avoid accessibility pitfalls and ensure they book the best castle stay for them. '...Many are not as ADA-friendly as the U.S. standard,' explains Ronda Helton, Owner and Luxury Travel Designer of The Travel Connection Group. 'I was in France last week and was staying in the Loire Valley. The hotel was only two floors high, and no elevator was available.' 'For some, this is not a big deal, but to others, it's a complete deal breaker,' said Helton. 'Also, the grounds may be cobblestones or rough, making it difficult to walk. Handrails are often absent as well.' Beyond accessibility, some castles might offer different experiences due to the region or other factors. It's also important to consider how you will be arriving at the castle, as many are located in more remote country areas and require a vehicle transfer or car rental. 'When looking for a castle property, travelers really need to be mindful of location. Choose a property that fits into your itinerary so you're not driving far out of your way to get to one,' explains Heather Grodin. 'They'll also want to be aware of the amenities offered. Castles can offer dinner shows, falconry, skeet shooting, hunting, golf—the list is endless. 'But not every castle offers all of these things,' Grodin said. 'So decide ahead of time what is important to you and select a castle that offers or specializes in that activity.' No matter what, research and expert help will always improve your chances of finding the perfect place to sleep like royalty. Copyright 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Visit at Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Dear Readers: We would love to hear from you. What topics would you like to read about? Please send your feedback and tips to
Epoch Times
07-05-2025
- Epoch Times
Bed and Breakfasts Are Making a Comeback, and Here Are Some of the Best Towns to Find Them
Noreen Kompanik TravelPulse Owners of bed and breakfasts, the immensely popular trend of the 1980s and 1990s, faced a decline in interest among vacationers for a while in the 2000s. Perhaps it was because of the shared bath concept or the hotels and resorts popping up on the accommodation scene with their myriad amenities and benefits that made these once-coveted places less alluring to the traveler. Or perhaps, just a shift in travel trends. Beds and breakfasts, however, have shaken off their dusty image and they're back in a big way. Yes, you can still stay in stately historic mansions, former schoolhouses, and old mills. But some of the trendiest properties are also featuring themed rooms, designer furniture and on-site activities such as wine and cheese pairing, afternoon tea, cooking classes, ski lessons, or helping out on the property's farm. As a true bed and breakfast aficionado, I enjoy the affordability, personalized service, unique settings, romantic getaway opportunities, complimentary social hours, and quiet, relaxed atmospheres. Here are some of the destinations in the U.S. to enjoy your first (or next) bed and breakfast experience. Cape May, New Jersey This charming seaside town located at the southern tip of New Jersey is known for its beautiful beaches, Victorian architecture and relaxed coastal vibe, a blend of small-town America and old-world elegance. Related Stories 4/5/2025 7/4/2024 Cape May is also renowned for its impressive selection of bed and breakfasts. Guests will find everything from colonial revival homes with wraparound porches and Victorian treasures to boutique offerings with eclectic design elements. Fernandina Beach, Florida Located on Amelia Island in northeast Florida, Fernandina Beach offers 13 miles of pristine beaches, a rich history, a range of outdoor and water activities, a historic, quaint downtown, scenic beauty, and a welcoming community. Victorian architecture is a standout here, reflected in its many cozy bed and breakfasts that blend historic elegance with modern comforts. But you'll also find Italianate, old Florida, and New England designs as well. Most homes are owned and operated by local families who also live on-property. And expect to enjoy gourmet breakfasts with that warm Southern hospitality the island is known for. The Addison B&B on Amelia Island, Florida. The island features the 13-mile-long Fernandina Beach. Noreen Kompanik/TNS Charleston, South Carolina This captivating coastal city seamlessly blends a rich, fascinating history, vibrant culture, and true Southern charm. Founded in 1670, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. renowned for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and the Charleston City Market, established in the 1790s with Gullah artisans still creating handcrafted sweetgrass baskets in the marketplace. The city's historic district features iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row, the Battery promenade, and antebellum mansions which is why staying in the historic district is a must. Staying in a historic bed and breakfast sets the stage for the ideal getaway, and there are so many amazing options to choose from. Horse and carriage rides are a familiar sight throughout historic Charleston, South Carolina. Noreen Kompanik/TNS Dahlonega, Georgia If you're looking for a charming mountain town destination, think Stars Hollow or Hallmark perfection), Dahlonega, located in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, delivers with charming bed and breakfasts that feel like a warm Southern hug. The site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush in 1828, Dahlonega offers stays that range from historic homes near its storybook downtown to vineyard-view cottages snugged among the vines. And just venturing out a bit, you'll find hiking trails and waterfalls, fishing and kayaking opportunities, wine tasting rooms, leaf-peeping in the fall, and an adorable downtown historic square. Pacific Grove, California Nestled between Monterey and Pebble Beach, this picturesque coastal town on the Monterey Peninsula is famous for its Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, where thousands of these magnificent insects migrate each fall and winter. Lovers Point Park is a popular spot for picnicking, kayaking, and catching the sunrise, being one of the few places on the West Coast where you can see the sun rise over the ocean. For a small town, Pacific Grove sports a delightful selection of Victorian bed and breakfasts, each providing a unique blend of historic charm, coastal beauty and personalized hospitality. For a small town, Pacific Grove, California, sports a good number of delightful Victorian bed and breakfasts, each providing a unique blend of historic charm, coastal beauty and personalized hospitality. Noreen Kompanik/TNS Fredericksburg, Texas Founded in 1846 by German immigrants, Fredericksburg still proudly celebrates its heritage with events like Oktoberfest and Maifest. The gem in Texas Hill Country blends wine country flair with Southern hospitality and offers a historic main street with boutique shops, art galleries, bakeries beer gardens, and cozy cafes. From mid-March through April, the hills are blanketed with vibrant wildflowers, the most notable, the bluebonnets. Fredericksburg offers a diverse array of bed and breakfasts. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat, a rustic escape, or a luxury stay, you'll find one to suit your preferences. Savannah, Georgia The city of Savannah is like a dreamy blend of Southern elegance, spooky legends, moss-draped oaks, and rich American history—all wrapped up in a walkable, artsy, and totally photogenic package. If you've ever wanted to step into a storybook (or a movie set), Savannah is your spot. Georgia's first city, founded in 1733, was laid out in a grid of 22 beautiful public squares, each with fountains, statues and towering oaks. Historic mansions, inns and bed and breakfasts surround these picturesque squares, offering a multitude of places to stay. Bed and breakfasts are our favorites, and depending on what you're looking for, you'll find everything from Revival mansions with courtyards and Victorian inns with antique furnishings to haunted places (if you dare)! Newport, Rhode Island Known as the 'sailing capital of the world,' Newport has deep yachting roots and regularly hosts international sailing regattas. The coastal treasure sports a rich maritime history, legendary Gilded-age mansions and seaside charm that makes it feel as though you've stepped back in time. Newport's downtown waterfront is cobblestoned and full of boutiques, seafood restaurants, art galleries, and colonial architecture. Bed and breakfasts here are uniquely arrayed, reflecting the character of the home, whether on the waterfront overlooking Narraganset Bay or on historic streets in town. St. Augustine, Florida As the nation's oldest continuously inhabited European-founded city, St. Augustine is a city draped in layers of history and cultural richness. The city's allure as a beautiful destination is woven from a rich tapestry of historical charm, architectural elegance, and natural beauty. The city's cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial architecture transport visitors to a bygone era, creating a sense of timelessness that is both enchanting and unique. St. Augustine has many lodging options for visitors, but the most popular choices are its bed and breakfasts, located in Old Town or in a beach, or waterfront setting. Copyright 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Visit at Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Dear Readers: We would love to hear from you. What topics would you like to read about? Please send your feedback and tips to
