Bickleigh Castle in Tiverton (Devon), England

Bickleigh Castle offers a choice of rooms, including the Tudor Suite inside the castle itself and self-contained cottages around a courtyard. The Tudor Suite spans three floors with a four-poster bed, a roll-top bath, and access to the Great Hall. Each room has a private bathroom, tea and coffee facilities, and adjustable heating.

Guests can use the hot tub, tennis court, and children's playground set within the castle grounds. The hotel provides bicycles for cycling, fishing rods on the River Exe, and a picnic area with tables. Inside, the property has a chapel, a Great Hall, and a conservatory lounge.

Breakfast is served in the conservatory and includes a continental spread with fresh fruit, yogurt, croissants, and a cooked full English breakfast on request. Cream teas are available on Thursday afternoons with scones, jam, and cream. Dinner is not provided on-site, but the Fisherman's Cot pub is a five-minute drive away.

Family rooms with separate single beds for children are available, and the property has a playground and a trampoline. The hotel also offers access to the tennis court, croquet on the lawn, and movie nights in the lounge. Cots and high chairs can be provided on request.

The castle dates from the 10th century and has a Saxon chapel, one of the oldest standing buildings in Devon. Guided tours of the castle, the chapel, and the grounds are led by the owners John and Sarah. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, the guard rooms, and the weapon room during the tour.

Accommodation: Tudor Suite inside the 1000-year-old castle

Amenities: Hot tub, tennis court, fishing on River Exe

Dining: Full English breakfast and Thursday cream teas

Family: Family rooms, playground, trampoline, croquet

Tours: Guided castle tour with Saxon chapel visit

Location: Quiet Exe Valley, 20 min from Exeter Airport