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
🕐 1. 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
👨👩👧👦 2. Travel with a Group
- Many castles sleep 8–14 people
- Splitting the cost can make it cheaper per person than a hotel
💻 3. Book Direct
- Many castles offer lower prices through their own websites
- You may also get extras like breakfast, early check-in, or free tours
🧳 4. Look for Self-Catering
- Properties with kitchens save you money on dining
- Bring your own wine and snacks instead of room service
🔍 5. 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.
