British history is full of kings, and queens, fighting battles against other kings, or those thinking that they have a stronger right to the throne. Amongst a lot of these battles will stand a castle or two which have stood the test of time to tell their story to us today.
From 10th century motte-and-bailey castles when the Normans arrived, to your traditional high walled stone castles that have put up with the War of the Roses and the English Civil War, not to mention those that were added to during the two World Wars. There is something for the whole family at these castles, with a lot holding amazing events that you can get involved with throughout the year.
So why not escape the present, travel back through time and indulge in a bit of history from spell-binding St Michael’s Mount, the Tudor strongholds of Pendennis and Pembroke Castle, the medieval Dunster and the Civil War prison of Charles I at Carisbrooke, to name but a few. Rest awhile at one of these stepping-stones and create your own history and tales to pass on.
Here are ten of our cosy self catering cottages in the UK that you can stay at while touring the castles of Britain.
Springtide
Marazion | Cornwall | Sleeps 2
Nestled in the heart of Marazion, Springtide is a gorgeous, intimate love nest for two with the glorious beaches, plentiful restaurants and variety of shops right on your doorstep. This traditional cottage is just a hop across the causeway from St Michael’s Mount, entrancing, captivating, full of charm and history.
The Annex
Mayfield | Sussex | Sleeps 2
The Annexe offers a bright living area, where you can snuggle up on the sofa, fire up the cosy wood-stove effect gas fire and watch your favourite movie with a nice glass of something. Explore some of the area's historic and cultural heritage at Glyndebourne, Bateman's, Scotney Castle, Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Penshurst Place and Gardens.
Cutty Sark
St Mawes | Cornwall | Sleeps 6
Cutty Sark has a wonderfully cosy, welcoming atmosphere with a large squashy sofa and wood-burner, it is a perfect coastal retreat all year round. It is ideally situated in the heart of St Mawes; only a short stroll from the sea, village shops, an excellent selection of places to eat out, and of course St Mawes Tudor Castle.
Riverview 
Withypool | Somerset | Sleeps 4
Withypool is at the heart of the beautiful Exmoor National Park and Riverview has a wonderful elevated village position with panoramic views of the River Barle below and the open moorland beyond. Dunster Castle is a short drive away and great family day out.
Agatha Cottage
Brixham | Devon | Sleeps 4
This exceptional semi-detached cottage is located in a wonderful corner of south Devon near Agatha Christie's former home Greenway with beautiful walks down to the River Dart and Torbay, as well as numerous castles in the area. Ideal for that romantic retreat or a grown-up haven for a break with friends.
Halcyon Cottage
West Lulworth | Dorset | Sleeps 5
Less than two miles from Lulworth Cove, Halcyon Cottage is a pretty, detached stone cottage in the heart of the village of West Lulworth. Right from the door you can head out to the coast path and find your way to the pebble beach and peaceful blue waters of Lulworth Cove. Just outside of West Lulworth stands the imposing Lulworth Castle, built in the 17th Century – the grounds are a perfect spot for a picnic.
Rock Pool House 
Pembroke | Wales | Sleeps 10
Choose Rock Pool House for the perfect, fun filled family holiday. Just a short 15 minute drive from glorious beaches including the surfer's paradise at Freshwater West where part of the Harry Potter films were made. There is so much to do and see in the area especially when it comes to visiting Pembroke Castle. In fact, with over 400 castles to choose from, it's hard not to stay near a castle when visiting Wales.
Keepers Cottage
Wootton | Isle of Wight | Sleeps 7
This gorgeous stone cottage is tucked away in the most idyllic and tranquil location; surrounded by fields and woodland, this is the perfect holiday setting to truly escape from it all. Carisbrooke Castle is close by as is Osborne House, two great family day's out.
Kingham Cottage
Bath | Somerset | Sleeps 4
This 'best of all boltholes' is just a couple of miles outside the wonderful city of Bath and yet in a rural setting with panoramic valley views and a deep sense of peacefulness. Surrounded by numerous castles too making for a culturally rich holiday.
Castlemans Stables East and West
Battle | Sussex | Sleeps 4 each
Set within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in the heart of East Sussex's 1066 countryside, Castlemans Stables East and West is surrounded by golf courses, vineyards, gardens and castles including Bodiam, Hastings and Herstmonceux.
To find other places to stay have a look at all our self catering cottages.
