travel

Staycation Like A Royal From The Crown

Ahead of the fourth season of The Crown airing on Netflix on 15th November, Oliver’s Travels has shared some of its grandest British castles and properties that would be sure to live up to Queen Elizabeth II’s standards.

From a beautiful Gothic castle where Prince Charles and Camilla once stayed to an Elizabethan gatehouse with a storied past, here are just a few ideas to live like royalty:

Gothic Castle Estate, County Galway

This 18th century castle has hosted many high-profile visitors including Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The Castle sleeps up to 16 guests across eight luxurious bedrooms and features spacious drawing rooms perfect for socialising. Conveniently located only 30 minutes from Shannon airport, the castle boasts 600 acres of private woodland and Europe’s largest privately owned 1,000-acre lake. Guests can enjoy pike fishing on the lake or nearby pheasant shooting during the season. Rates from £12,744 for a two-night stay.

Lothian Castle, Edinburgh

The 600-year-old Lothian Castle is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval Scottish fortifications. Steeped in history, it has encountered many key personalities in British history over the years including Mary Queen of Scots and Oliver Cromwell. Sleeping up to 24 guests in its 12 bedrooms, the castle is fit for a king or queen with its grand reception rooms, breath-taking views, elegant fireplaces, and colourful tapestries. Rates from £12,094 for a two-night stay.

Timeless Castle, Scottish Borders

Guests staying in The South Wing of Timeless Castle will feel like they have stepped back in time or straight onto the set of The Crown with its high vaulted ceilings, elegant furnishings, and family portraits. Family home to the Duke of Lauderdale, it is one of the oldest and finest castles in Scotland and remains home to the Maitland family to this day. For the ultimate royal experience, guests can book a private dinner in the vaulted cellars or the magnificent state dining room adorned with portraits of the Maitland family. A range of experiences can also be arranged on request including an exclusive guided tour of the castle by a member of the Maitland family, whisky or wine tastings, and spa treatments. The castle sleeps up to 16 guests across its five apartments. Rates from £3,980 for a three-night stay.

Chevaliers Gatehouse, Shropshire
This Elizabethan era gatehouse has welcomed King Edward V, Charles I and Sir John Betjeman into its grounds. There are also tapestries that honour Charles I’s son, Prince Rupert, who slept at the Gatehouse while commanding royalist troops during the Civil War. Guests will feel like royalty whilst staying in the two bedrooms, featuring silk drapes, sumptuous four-poster beds, Tudor fireplaces, antiques, and huge exposed beams. Rates from £768 for a three-night stay.

Wilfred Manor, The Cotswolds

Wilfred Manor is an expansive Grade I listed manor with a fascinating history. King Charles I is said to haunt the four acres of landscaped gardens, after he took refuge within the manor during the siege of Gloucester in 1643. Its 12 bedrooms are individually decorated with luxurious furnishings and each offer a different perspective of the Cotswolds Hills. Guests can take part in a spot of croquet, cricket and badminton on the landscaped gardens or explore the local horse-riding routes. After a day filled with activities, a relaxing soak in the outdoor hot tub is just what is needed. Rates from £6,071 for a three-night stay.

To book visit https://www.oliverstravels.com/ or call 0800 133 799.