Langley Castle Hotel: Experience Medieval Luxury and History

Nestled in the heart of Northumberland’s picturesque countryside, Langley Castle Hotel offers a truly enchanting escape for those seeking a blend of history, luxury, and unforgettable experiences. Boasting over 700 years of history, this medieval fortress-turned-hotel promises a unique and memorable stay for its guests.

The captivating charm of Langley Castle lies not only in the beautifully preserved medieval architecture but also in the sumptuous interiors and impressive modern amenities. Surrounded by sprawling gardens and woodlands, the hotel offers a serene and tranquil retreat for travellers. As we explore the grandeur of this hotel, we’ll delve into the fascinating history, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional services that set it apart from the rest.

From the moment you step through the imposing gatehouse into the opulent Great Hall, you’ll be transported back in time, experiencing the perfect balance of historic elegance and contemporary comfort. LANGLEY CASTLE HOTEL’s dedication to ensuring a captivating experience makes it the ideal destination for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or even a unique venue for your special event. So, let’s discover the fascinating world behind the castle walls and find out what makes this hotel the perfect getaway destination.

Discovering Langley Castle Hotel

Nestled in the picturesque Northumberland countryside, Langley Castle Hotel offers guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in centuries of history. This stunning 14th-century edifice, once a stronghold during the tumultuous era of border warfare, has been impeccably restored to provide luxury accommodations in a truly enchanting environment.

Built in 1350 by Sir Thomas de Lucy, the castle has witnessed significant historical events, such as the capture of King David II of Scotland by English forces. Over the centuries, ownership changed hands multiple times, giving the castle its rich tapestry of stories. Today, it’s owned by the Robb family, whose careful attention to detail ensures a perfect blend of historical authenticity and modern comforts.

As a Grade I listed building, the castle features impressive architecture and remarkable fortifications. With its 7-foot-thick walls, this medieval stronghold was built originally to protect its inhabitants against attacks and raids. After a period of abandonment during the 18th century, the building was bought by Cadwallader Bates, who meticulously restored and preserved its remarkable features, providing the foundation for the hotel we see today.

At Langley Castle Hotel, visitors can stay in individually designed rooms, some boasting original period features such as:

• Exposed stone walls
• Four-poster beds
• Gothic-style windows

Current amenities include a sumptuous restaurant featuring local produce, beautiful gardens, and a relaxing Drawing Room for indulging in afternoon tea.

Guests also have access to a variety of activities and attractions in the surrounding area, such as:

• Exploring Hadrian’s Wall, a stunning World Heritage Site
• Visiting the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Walking through the scenic Hexhamshire countryside
• Discovering nearby towns and villages, like the market town of Hexham

Providing a fascinating insight into the past alongside premium modern comforts, Langley Castle Hotel truly is a distinctive destination. While it has evolved from a defensive fortress to a beacon of hospitality, its captivating history and enduring charm continue to delight visitors from near and far.

Delving into the Castle’s History

Nestled in the heart of Northumberland, Langley Castle Hotel serves as a stunning example of medieval architecture. Built in the 14th century, this impressive structure has witnessed a series of significant events throughout its existence. Let’s dive into some of the fascinating historical details that make this castle an exceptional destination for travellers.

Originally constructed by Sir Thomas de Lucy in 1350, Langley Castle was intended as a defensive stronghold. Standing proudly on a rocky outcrop, the castle’s commanding position allowed it to play a crucial role in enduring the turbulent tensions between England and Scotland. Throughout the years, the castle has undergone various changes in ownership, with each successive resident adding their unique touch to the estate.

Here’s a brief breakdown of the castle’s ownership timeline:

In the 16th century, ownership of the castle passed to the Radcliffes, resulting in an era of political intrigue. The Rising of the North, a rebellion led by the Earl of Northumberland and the Earl of Westmorland, resulted in the confiscation of the estate by the Crown. However, the castle was eventually restored to the Radcliffe family, only to once again change hands in the mid-17th century when the Derwentwaters acquired it.

Unfortunately, the castle suffered significant damage during the English Civil War. It subsequently fell into disrepair until 1882 when historian Cadwallader Bates purchased and began its extensive restoration. As a result, the castle’s current layout features a delightful blend of historic architecture and Victorian charm.

Today, Langley Castle is owned by Stuart & Sylvia Johnson-Baily, who transformed it into the wonderful Langley Castle Hotel in 1985. Guests can experience the rich history of the castle while enjoying modern comforts such as en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant and a fabulous garden space.

In short, with its remarkable history and beautiful architecture, Langley Castle Hotel provides a uniquely charming setting for visitors. Throughout the centuries, this hotel has stood as an exceptional testament to resilience and the enduring importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Visit Langley Castle Hotel to enjoy its storied past and elegant atmosphere.

Accommodation Offered at Langley Castle

When it comes to the luxurious and historic experience, Langley Castle Hotel in Hexham, Northumberland, is a perfect location. Dating back to the 14th century, this medieval fortress stands as an exceptional piece of history, providing a unique ambience and an unforgettable stay for guests. The hotel houses a range of accommodation options to cater for different preferences and budgets while maintaining a high standard of quality and service.

There are 27 beautifully-appointed guest rooms available, which include feature rooms, deluxe CastleView rooms, and a selection of standard rooms. The following categories can be chosen from:

• Feature Rooms: These nine unique rooms are located within the Castle itself, providing an authentic historical experience. Each of them offers stunning views of the surroundings and come with luxurious, modern amenities. It’s worth mentioning that one of these rooms is the infamous Radcliffe Room, where the brave and the bold can spend a night amongst whispers of ghostly happenings.
• CastleView Rooms: Set in the CastleView building, these 18 rooms offer a blend of traditional charm and contemporary style. They’re designed to provide all the comforts of modern living while retaining the atmosphere of the Castle surroundings.

Upon spending a night within these historic walls, guests can indulge in various dining options at Langley Castle Hotel. The 2 AA Rosette awarded Josephine Restaurant offers a sumptuous dining experience, with an expertly crafted menu to tantalise the taste buds.

Apart from its elegant accommodation and dining options, Langley Castle Hotel offers a picturesque setting for weddings and other special events. The magnificent Great Hall, enchanting Castle grounds, and the dedicated team of event planners provide the perfect combination to make any occasion memorable.

In summary, Langley Castle Hotel offers history, luxury, and comfort in one magnificent package. It’s a true gem for those who appreciate the unique blend of medieval charm and modern amenities.

Experience the splendour of medieval history now and book a stay at the majestic Langley Castle Hotel!

Exploring the Castle Grounds

Stepping into the grounds of the stunning Langley Castle Hotel is like taking a journey back in time. The castle, built in the 14th century, has a rich history that can be experienced as we wander through the beautifully maintained gardens and explore the impressive architecture.

The castle walls, constructed in 1350, have stood witness to significant historical events. Notably, it played a key role during the Wars of the Roses, where it suffered damage but managed to retain its majestic presence. Over the centuries, ownership of Langley Castle passed through various distinguished hands. These include Sir Thomas de Lucy, who initially built the castle, and later Sir Edward Radcliffe, who transformed it into a comfortable residence in the 16th century.

Today, Langley Castle Hotel offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern essentials. Preserving the original architecture, its function has gently evolved from a defensive residence to a luxurious hotel. It’s now owned and operated by the Robb family, with the Lord of the Manor title bestowed upon the hotel’s proprietor, Dr. Stuart Madnick.

Within the castle grounds, we can immerse ourselves in a variety of activities:

• Battlefield Tours: Langley Castle Hotel organises special guided tours for history enthusiasts, providing a deeper understanding of the landmark events that took place here.
• Wildlife Spotting: The castle is surrounded by lush woodlands, home to various species of birds and wildlife. Grab a pair of binoculars, venture out, and test your identification skills.
• Library: The castle’s historic library offers peace and quiet amongst a wealth of fascinating books, perfect for anyone seeking knowledge or solace on their visit.
• Gardens: Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the fragrant blooms, while enjoying the picturesque views of the Northumberland countryside.

Visiting the castle is an opportunity to explore its majestic past, while at the same time, enjoying the upscale facilities today’s discerning traveller expects. The unique ambience of Langley Castle Hotel ensures that our stay becomes a memorable one, etched in history just as the walls that house it. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the majesty and charm of this historic treasure in Hexham, Northumberland.

Dining Options for Guests

When staying at the Langley Castle Hotel, guests will be delighted by the variety of dining options available. We pride ourselves in providing a memorable and exquisite dining experience that suits different tastes and preferences.

The highlight of our dining options is the Josephine Restaurant. Here, our guests can enjoy a combination of traditional British cuisine along with contemporary culinary delights. Our team of talented chefs are dedicated to using fresh, local ingredients to create a truly outstanding menu. Some of the popular dishes at Josephine’s include Northumbrian beef, fresh seafood, and delightful vegetarian options.

For more casual dining, the Langley Castle Hotel offers the Pavilion Café. This charming spot is perfect for a relaxed breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea. The café features a selection of mouth-watering cakes, pastries, and sandwiches, along with a range of hot and cold beverages.

Additionally, we understand that many of our guests have specific dietary needs and preferences. We’re happy to cater to these requirements, and our expert culinary team can create tailor-made dishes for guests with special requests. This includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options.

During your stay, don’t miss the opportunity to experience our traditional Sunday Lunch. We offer a delicious roast dinner, including all the trimmings that one would expect from a classic British Sunday feast.

For those interested in some pre-dinner drinks or a late-night tipple, our Drawing Room Bar is the ideal spot. The bar boasts an impressive selection of spirits, wines, and local ales, as well as tasty bar snacks and small plates.

In summary, here are the dining options available at Langley Castle Hotel:

• Josephine Restaurant – Fine dining with a modern British menu
• Pavilion Café – Casual dining for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea
• Special Dietary Requirements – Tailor-made dishes for specific dietary needs
• Sunday Lunch – Traditional roast dinner with all the trimmings
• Drawing Room Bar – A variety of drinks and bar snacks

We’re confident that our dining options will satisfy even the most discerning palates, ensuring that every guest has a delightful gastronomic experience during their stay at the Langley Castle Hotel.

Notable Langley Castle Events

Throughout Langley Castle Hotel‘s rich history, there have been numerous key events and notable moments that set this impressive structure apart from others. We’ll take a closer look at some of the highlights in the castle’s history.

Built in the 14th century, Langley Castle is a Grade I listed building situated near Hexham, Northumberland. Originally constructed by Sir Thomas de Lucy, a well-respected knight in the region, the castle stood witness to the shifting political and social changes of its time, particularly those relating to border disputes between England and Scotland.

During the English Civil War, Langley Castle was inhabited by Royalist supporters, forcing a siege by Parliamentarian forces. The castle was severely damaged during this time and remained in ruins for centuries before its restoration.

The 19th century saw Langley Castle restored to its former glory under the ownership of local historian and antiquarian Cadwallader John Bates. Over the years, the building changed ownership several times, eventually being converted into a hotel by Stuart and Lucy Johnson in 1985.

The present-day Langley Castle Hotel not only serves as a picturesque #accommodation option for visitors but also provides a historic setting for various events such as:

• Weddings: Langley Castle offers an enchanting backdrop for couples seeking a grand and romantic wedding venue. The castle’s stunning grounds and rooms provide an idyllic setting for both ceremonies and receptions.
• Ghost Hunts: Given the castle’s long history and rumours of resident ghosts, thrill-seekers can participate in organised ghost hunts and explore the mysterious past of this ancient building.
• Corporate Events: Langley Castle’s stately atmosphere, combined with modern conference facilities and team-building activities, make it an ideal location for hosting business gatherings and conferences.

In summary, Langley Castle Hotel has experienced an eventful and colourful history:

From its origins as a border fortress during England and Scotland’s tumultuous past, through the ravages of the English Civil War, to its current status as a luxury hotel and venue, Langley Castle continues to hold a unique place in both local and national history.

Weddings

Ideal Location for Corporate Events

Imagine hosting your next corporate event at a breathtaking venue filled with history, charm, and modern amenities. Langley Castle Hotel in Hexham, Northumberland, offers all of this and more. Here’s why our hotel is an excellent choice for your business needs.

One standout feature of Langley Castle Hotel is its remarkable architecture. Langley Castle is a genuine 14th-century fortified castle, built in 1350 during the reign of Edward III. With its ornate stained-glass windows, 7-foot thick walls, and battlements, our castle brings a unique atmosphere to your corporate events that’s sure to impress and inspire guests.

Moreover, the castle has experienced numerous historical events throughout its existence. Some significant moments include its role as a key defensive structure during the Border Wars between England and Scotland, and later, the residence of Sir Thomas Liddell, royal administrator under James I, and Sir Edward Ratcliffe during the English Civil War in the 17th century. These historical connections not only add to the castle’s character but also provide a captivating backdrop for your event.

When it comes to event spaces, Langley Castle Hotel caters to various requirements. We offer numerous onsite venues, including:

• The Cadwallader Room: suitable for smaller gatherings or meetings of up to 20 guests
• The Stuart Room: apt for presentations and seminars, accommodating up to 40 people
• The Drawing Room: featuring a grand fireplace and seating for 60 attendees
• The Pavilion: our most extensive facility, with a capacity of 120 delegates

Equipped with modern technology, all our spaces provide the latest audio-visual equipment, free Wi-Fi, and catering options tailored to your event.

Accessibility is a significant advantage of holding corporate events at our location. Langley Castle Hotel is conveniently situated near major transport links: only 30 minutes away from Newcastle Airport, and less than 3 hours by train from London King’s Cross, making it easily reachable for national and international guests.

Currently, Langley Castle Hotel is owned and operated by the Robb family, who have overseen its transformation into a luxurious boutique hotel since the 1980s. It’s the perfect combination of historic charm, modern amenities, and exceptional service, which makes hosting your next corporate event with us a brilliant decision.

In summary, Langley Castle Hotel provides a unique and memorable setting for corporate events, blending history, stunning architecture, versatile event spaces, and excellent transport links. So, why settle for a standard conference centre when our enchanting hotel promises an unforgettable experience that leaves lasting impressions on your guests?

Wrapping Up Your Langley Castle Experience

In a nutshell, the Langley Castle Hotel offers a unique and unforgettable stay. As we recap our Langley Castle experience, let’s touch upon the significant historical events, the magnificent building itself, previous and current ownership, and the castle’s present-day status and uses.

A rich history surrounds this 14th-century castle, built by Sir Thomas de Lucy. It’s seen the ravages of the Wars of the Roses, experienced the Paxton family’s ownership, and next, the Howards of Naworth took over the property. The 20th century saw Cadwallader Bates restoring the castle bringing it back to life.

Today, the proud owners, Dr. Stuart and Mrs. Josephine Madnick, have successfully transformed the property into a luxury four-star hotel. The castle stands tall with its seven-feet-thick walls and ten individual guest rooms. Each of the rooms is adorned with historical artefacts and luxurious amenities.

While staying at Langley Castle, guests should not miss the following:

• Dining at the award-winning Josephine’s restaurant
• Participating in on-site activities such as archery, falconry, and woodland walks
• Exploring adjacent attractions such as Hadrian’s Wall and the Northumberland National Park

So, whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a captivating historical experience, or an elegant wedding venue, the Langley Castle Hotel offers a distinct taste of medieval charm and modern luxury. We’re confident that your visit to this captivating historical gem will leave an indelible impression, making you eager for a return trip!