Bickleigh Castle

The castle is actually part of a castle, plus later buildings. The castle bit is very historic and special. However, there isn't really enough there to warrent more than a 30 minute look around. I am a member of Historic Houses so visiting cost me nothing except showing my membership card. I'd have been very very disappointed if I'd paid cash to get in. As it was, I just wasted my time. Upon arrival we wandered around the garden/grounds. Sorry, but they are scruffy although pretty, with no interesting plants for a keen gardener to enjoy. We joined the guided tour at 2.30pm but would have been better off going around on our own. We thought we'd miss out on the guide's knowledge and insight. This is where the 'oh dear' really set in. The guide talked for about an hour on bits of history very very slightly linked to the castle. He proudly showed off reproduction painting and very ordinary antique items. I am very keen on history and art, the subjects fascinate me, but I was so bored! and there was no way to escape in a polite way. The castle is also a wedding venue. They are, perhaps, better at weddings.

Location,setting, staff and accommodation were so fantastic. Well worth a visit, we will definitely go again. Very welcoming staff and lovely group of other guests so lovely to chat with all .So relaxing, excellent nights sleep in such comfortable clean beds and room. Very historic and beautifully restored cottages.

Fabulous weekend, very clean, breakfast was wonderful, great for history, a very peaceful weekend away.

Our family of 4 recently stayed at Bickleigh Castle for 3 nights. We had a wonderful stay and the hosts were very kind and helpful throughout our stay. John met us at check in and made sure we had everything we needed for breakfast each morning. He also took time to give us a very nice and informative tour of the castle. He was very pleasant to converse with throughout our stay, and he knew what seems like every detail of the castle! The area was beautiful around the castle as well. My girls thought it was really a neat and unique experience.

We stayed the weekend of 22nd - 24th March in the Tudor Suite/Bridal Suite. It was pretty amazing. The only room within the castle it self. The hosts Sarah and John were lovely and very knowledgable. John showed us around the Castle explaining the various rooms including the Great Hall and the stories that went along with it. Absolutely delightful. A couple of nice places to eat within walking distance and many heritage sites to visit. Thank you so much for making our stay their memorable. Would definitely recommend.

Very quiet only one staying there, no evening dining.

We went on the History Tour on the 18th December. What a fabulous fact filled afternoon in a house with so much history and so many interesting items and artifacts. John could relate anything to the building, owners, local events, royal events, or UK history! A mine of information. Only constraint was the time, or we could have stayed for much longer. Made so welcome with mulled wine, mince pies, and a roaring fire in the main hall. Will certainly go back again.

Room in old thatched cottage adjoining castle with tour of the castle

I stayed with my husband and two children. The setting was incredible and steeped in history. It was a lovely sanctuary of peace and quiet. I recommend it as a truly unique place to stay!