Langley Castle Hotel: A Medieval 14th-Century Castle in the Heart of Northumberland

Sponsor — this business supports Hexham Focus

If you're looking for somewhere with true history behind it, Langley Castle takes some beating. Built in 1350 and still standing proudly in the South Tyne Valley near Hexham, this is a genuine medieval fortified castle, complete with seven-foot-thick walls and more than 670 years of stories within them.

Inside, nine individually styled Featured Castle rooms blend period character with modern comfort: think four-poster beds, window seats carved into ancient stone, and in some cases spa baths, a sauna and original fireplaces. For families or those travelling with dogs, 19 additional rooms lie just a short walk away in the Castle View courtyard, many overlooking the castle itself. Two medium-sized dogs are welcome per room for a small nightly fee, though the main castle bedrooms and restaurant remain dog-free. Or stay in the newly renovated Toll Bar Luxury Villa, a modern two bedroom self contained cottage in the grounds which is dog-free.

Fine Dining is now a major highlight. Langley Castle holds 2 AA Rosettes and has recently welcomed Culinary Director Mark Greenaway, the acclaimed Scottish chef known for his creative, seasonal approach and appearances on The Great British Menu. Under his direction, the castle's "field-to-fortress" philosophy celebrates the best of Northumberland produce, transforming simple ingredients into dishes full of flavour and finesse. Guests can enjoy candlelit fine dining in the historic Josephine's Restaurant, a more contemporary experience in the Glass Pavilion, or afternoon tea and evening drinks in the chandelier-lit Drawing Room. Private dining ranges from intimate gatherings of 30 in the Pavilion to grand celebrations of up to 120 in the Stuart Suite, one of the North East's most striking wedding venues with its arched stained-glass windows and dramatic atmosphere.

The castle's Battlements Tour offers a glimpse into its remarkable past, taking visitors through areas not normally open to the public, including some of Europe's best-preserved medieval garderobes, a curious highlight for history enthusiasts.

Set within ten acres of private gardens and woodland, Langley Castle is perfectly placed for exploring Hadrian's Wall, Vindolanda and the surrounding Northumberland countryside. Its awards cabinet reflects its reputation: AA Four-Star Gold, VisitEngland Gold Award, and accolades including Best Hotel for Romance UK (2018), Small Hotel of the Year Silver (2022), Gold Award for Resilience and Innovation (2023), and Highly Commended Hotel (2023).

Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a wedding to remember, or simply a break steeped in history and fine food, Langley Castle delivers it all, with centuries of character and a fresh culinary vision leading the way.

Find out more here: https://langleycastle.com/