Augill Castle

With its towers and battlements this Victorian-folly castle, in 15 acres of grounds, looks imposing yet 'you actually feel like it is your castle'. 'A magical place to stay,' says a reader on a return visit. 'Quirky, unique and delightful, with the warmest of welcomes.' Owners Simon and Wendy Bennett have furnished the huge rooms – wood panelling, ornate ceilings – in a grandly shabby, homely style. Family photographs and cushion-heaped window seats complement the antiques. It is very family friendly. Bedrooms in the castle might feature turrets for wardrobes, floor-to-ceiling Gothic windows, a four-poster or Victorian chaise longue. They are eccentrically furnished with sale-room finds, bold wallpapers and ‘sumptuous bedding, towels and robes’. Bathrooms are huge, some with a roll-top bath. Evening meals in the former Music Room might include braised supreme of guinea fowl with pearl barley risotto or wild mushroom arancini with chilli tomato sauce. An ‘amazing breakfast’ includes freshly squeezed orange juice, smoked salmon and scrambled egg, and egg Florentine. ‘Each time it feels better. Wendy and Simon continue to improve the offering.’ (Timothy Allen, Steve Marshall)