The castle loved by Kevin McCloud of Grand Designs and home to royalty just ten miles from Coventry

It is hard to imagine that right on our doorstep is a castle steeped in the fabric of the nation’s history. Astley Castle, near Nuneaton, was the home of Elizabeth Astley, wife of King Edward IV, Elizabeth of York, who became the wife of King Henry VII, and Lady Jane Grey, who was crowned in 1553.

Not only that, the old building, which dates back to the 13th century, also infamously plays host to a ghost – the lady in red.

Its history was almost lost in a devastating fire, but thanks to a £2.7 million Lamdark Trust restoration project, the moated castle has been restored. Some of the original 13th century stone and timbers have been retained and integrated with modern design to create plush accommodation for up to eight people with scenic views over the Arbury Estate.

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This restoration won a major design award, the RIBA Stirling Prize for Architecture in 2013. It was also hailed by Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud as “magnificent” after he visited in 2021.

In fact, he was so “blown away” by one particular feature – an impressive scale – he even pinched the idea of ​​his own home in Herefordshire.

Despite its national attention, Astley Castle remains one of Warwickshire’s best-kept secrets when it comes to enjoying a short break somewhere truly different, and you can book to stay there.

You can find out more about how to book a stay on the Landmark Trust website here

For those who prefer to visit and explore, there are special open day events taking place at Astley Castle in just a few days. Landmark Trust is hosting the event on

• Friday, June 7 – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
• Saturday, June 8, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
• Sunday, June 9 – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
• Monday, June 10 – 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m

Due to the historic nature of the buildings, there is limited capacity for Open Day events. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website here

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