Langley Castle Hotel

This historic property offers a truly immersive experience, with its 14th-century castle setting providing a unique and memorable stay. Guests are consistently captivated by the authentic ambiance and the opportunity to delve into centuries of history. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a romantic getaway, history buffs eager to explore its past, and families looking for a distinctive and engaging experience. Its beautiful grounds, often graced by roaming peacocks, add to the charm. The attentive and professional staff are a highlight, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all, including dog owners. To make the most of your visit, be sure to participate in the daily castle history tour, which offers fascinating insights into the building's rich heritage.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed to enhance the guest experience. The drawing room and bar area are frequently praised as unique, relaxing spaces with elegant decor, where guests can enjoy drinks and even bring their pets. The expansive grounds are beautifully maintained, offering peaceful areas for strolls and the delightful presence of peacocks. While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool or extensive leisure facilities, it compensates with its historical charm and comfortable common areas. Guests appreciate the provision of Penhaligon toiletries in rooms, adding a touch of luxury. Some rooms, particularly those in the main castle, require navigating spiral staircases as there is no public lift. Minor points include occasional issues with Wi-Fi signal and some TVs being older or having reception problems.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be very clean and comfortable, often highlighting the spaciousness and immaculate condition. The beds are frequently described as super comfy, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few guests found them either too soft or too firm, and some noted issues with pillows. The bathrooms are typically spacious and well-appointed, with good linens and towels. However, some reviews mention that the decor in certain rooms, particularly in the lodges or older castle sections, can appear tired or dated, with instances of peeling paint, cracked tiles, or worn furnishings. While generally quiet, some guests reported noise levels from the peacocks in the morning or from adjacent rooms within the castle due to the historic structure.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience consistently receives high praise. Breakfast is widely celebrated as excellent, delicious, and high quality, offering a comprehensive selection including full English breakfast and Eggs Benedict, with many items cooked to order. For dinner, guests appreciate the choice between a refined fine dining menu and a more casual relaxed dining menu, both of which are lauded for their food quality and deliciousness. The restaurant atmosphere is often described as regal and private. While most guests are highly satisfied, some noted that portions on the fine dining menu could be small, and there were occasional comments about slow service or minor issues with food temperature. Afternoon tea is also popular, known for its generous and tasty offerings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a superb location nestled in beautiful, quiet countryside, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider region. Its proximity to key historical sites like Hadrian's Wall and the town of Hexham is a significant draw for sightseers and those interested in history. The grounds are extensive and well-maintained, providing pleasant areas for walks. Ample parking is available on site. While the main castle offers an authentic experience, guests should be aware that some accommodations are located in separate lodge rooms or cottage rooms a short walk from the main building, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues or during inclement weather.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their exceptional friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness, describing them as welcoming and eager to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is generally smooth, and staff are commended for their efficiency. The hotel is notably dog-friendly, with staff accommodating pets in designated areas like the drawing room. The daily historical tours of the castle, led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff, are a particular highlight, providing valuable insights into the property's past. While service is largely excellent, a few guests experienced occasional instances of slower service speed in the bar or restaurant areas.

Additional Information
A unique and charming aspect of the hotel is the presence of peacocks freely roaming the grounds, adding to the picturesque setting, though their morning calls can be a minor disturbance for some. The complimentary castle history tour offered daily is a highly recommended experience, providing a fascinating glimpse into the building's past. Guests should be aware of the pet policy, which includes a per-night fee for dogs, and some reviews suggest that the hotel could enhance the pet amenities provided for the cost. A 10% service charge is added to restaurant bills, which some guests found unexpected. The hotel is a popular wedding venue, and while generally well-managed, some guests noted that events could occasionally impact service or atmosphere.