The Cheapest Castles and Palaces You Can Rent for a Day in the UK: Royal Charm on a Budget

Staying in a castle might sound like a dream reserved for royalty or the ultra-wealthy — but in the UK, where history and heritage blend with modern tourism, that dream is surprisingly affordable. From medieval fortresses to charming turreted manors, you can rent a real castle or palace for a day without breaking the bank.

This article explores the cheapest castles and historic estates available for daily rental in the UK, including real-life examples, average costs, what’s included, and smart travel tips. Whether you’re planning a fairytale photoshoot, romantic retreat, family celebration, or simply want to experience historic grandeur — this guide proves that castle life isn’t just for kings.

1. What to Expect from a Budget Castle Stay

Renting a castle doesn’t always mean high costs — but it also doesn’t mean 100-room palaces either. Most affordable options are small castles, gatehouses, fortified manor houses, or castle-like towers.

? Common Features in Budget Castle Rentals:

• Period architecture (stone walls, turrets, towers)
• Cozy interiors with antique decor
• Self-catering kitchens
• Gardens or small grounds
• Rustic or modernized bathrooms
• Fireplaces, wood beams, and thick stone walls

? Average Prices:

• £150–£300 per night for 2–4 people in a smaller historic property
• £300–£600 per night for groups (6–10 guests) in larger spaces
• Weekday bookings often cost less than weekends

2. Top 5 Cheapest Castles and Historic Properties for Rent in the UK

Let’s explore the best low-cost castle experiences in Britain you can rent for a night — each offering a unique slice of history and charm.

? 1. Augill Castle – Cumbria, England

Price: From £195/night (double room with breakfast)
Type: Boutique castle hotel with private room rentals
Capacity: 2 guests per room (larger suites available)
Location: Near the Lake District, North West England

Features:

• Traditional Gothic-style architecture
• Rooms with four-poster beds and clawfoot tubs
• Breakfast in the Great Hall
• Optional afternoon tea and private dining

Budget Tip: Book directly via their website in the off-season (winter weekdays) for discounts.

? 2. Fenton Tower – East Lothian, Scotland

Price: From £300–£350/night (entire tower, off-peak)
Type: 16th-century fortified tower
Capacity: Sleeps up to 13
Location: Near North Berwick, Scotland (35 minutes from Edinburgh)

Features:

• Stunning stone tower with 5 bedrooms
• Open fires, library, drawing room
• Available for self-catering or catered stays
• Surrounded by countryside and wildlife

Why it’s a deal: Perfect for group stays. If split between 10+ guests, it can cost less than £35 per person per night.

? 3. The Pink Castle – Largs, Scotland

Price: From £300/night (entire property, seasonal pricing)
Type: 14th-century castle with quirky pink paint
Capacity: Sleeps 8–10
Location: On the Firth of Clyde coast

Features:

• Hot tub and outdoor dining area
• Ocean views
• Traditional Scottish castle layout
• Modern kitchen and bathrooms

Great for: Families, themed parties, or couples seeking something unique.

? 4. Craigston Castle – Aberdeenshire, Scotland

Price: From £250–£400/night (self-catering flat in part of the castle)
Type: 17th-century baronial mansion
Capacity: Apartment for 4 guests
Location: Scottish Highlands

Highlights:

• Grand castle exterior with turreted towers
• Historic interior with original furniture
• Private grounds and woodland walks
• Optional castle tour and whisky tasting

Pro Tip: Stay in the on-site apartment instead of renting the full castle to save money.

? 5. Appleby Castle – Cumbria, England

Price: From £120–£250/night (B&B in castle rooms)
Type: Norman keep with guest rooms
Capacity: 2–6 guests per booking
Location: Eden Valley, near the Yorkshire Dales

Includes:

• Historic castle stay with breakfast
• Tower room or courtyard suites
• Option for evening meals and tours
• Stunning medieval hall and chapel

Why choose it: Authentic medieval atmosphere at a fraction of luxury hotel prices.

3. Where to Find Budget Castle Rentals

?️ Booking Platforms:

• Airbnb: Use filters like “castle” or “historic”
• CoolStays: Unique accommodation with design flair
• Canopy & Stars: Offbeat UK stays, often with rural charm
• Host Unusual: Alternative rentals including towers and manors
• The Landmark Trust: Preserved historic buildings at fair prices

4. Tips for Booking Castles on a Budget

Travel Off-Season

• Book weekdays between November and March
• Avoid holidays, weddings, and summer weekends
• Shoulder seasons (April/October) offer lower rates but pleasant weather

Travel with a Group

• Many castles sleep 8–14 people
• Splitting the cost can make it cheaper per person than a hotel

Book Direct

• Many castles offer lower prices through their own websites
• You may also get extras like breakfast, early check-in, or free tours

Look for Self-Catering

• Properties with kitchens save you money on dining
• Bring your own wine and snacks instead of room service

Read Reviews

• Pay attention to cleanliness, heating (especially in winter), and comfort
• Choose properties with 4.5+ stars on multiple platforms

5. What to Pack for a Castle Stay

Even budget castles are unique properties — some modern, others rustic. Be prepared:

• Warm layers (stone walls can be chilly at night)
• Food supplies (especially in remote locations)
• Entertainment (some may lack TVs or Wi-Fi)
• Comfortable shoes for walking on stone floors or grounds
• Toiletries — not all rentals provide hotel-style amenities

6. Experiences You Can Add On

For an extra fee (or included at some locations), you may enjoy:

• Private castle tours
• Archery or falconry demonstrations
• Afternoon tea in the drawing room
• Historical storytelling or murder mystery evenings
• Hot tubs and spa treatments (modernized castles)

7. Are Budget Castles Worth It?

Yes — if you know what to expect. Many budget castles offer authenticity over luxury. You might trade marble bathrooms for creaky staircases and thick walls, but gain a once-in-a-lifetime memory.

✔️ Great For:

• Couples wanting a romantic escape
• History buffs
• Budget-conscious travelers
• Group holidays with friends or family
• Photographers, writers, and creatives

❌ Maybe Not For:

• Luxury-seekers wanting modern amenities
• Those needing wheelchair accessibility
• Last-minute travelers (many budget castles book months in advance)

Living like royalty — even for one night — is no longer reserved for aristocrats or celebrities. Across the UK, affordable castles and mini-palaces are available for rent, offering charm, history, and unforgettable atmosphere for less than many city hotels.

Whether you’re sipping tea in a 14th-century turret or exploring the grounds of a Scottish stronghold, there’s a budget-friendly castle experience for every traveler.

With the right planning and platform, you can make your fairytale getaway a reality — without needing a royal budget.