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Augill Castle - Kirkby Stephen

‘Wow - it’s just like Narnia!’ exclaimed 5 year old Sam. Places to stay don’t come much more magical than this. In a wild and beautiful corner of Cumbria, Augill offers five-star accommodation in a real fairytale castle, complete with turrets, battlements and hidden doorways. Originally a Victorian gentleman’s folly, Augill is full of character, but you can forget about spider’s webs and fusty furnishings. Sumptuous fabrics, antique furniture and the finest Egyptian bedlinens make for a luxurious setting. The wonderful hosts, Wendy and Simon, and their children, have created a welcoming, anything-goes atmosphere perfect for the whole family. Nothing is too much trouble, and children are royally catered for, allowing parents the chance to really unwind. Augill might be Narnia for kids, but it is Utopia for adults!

Each bedroom has its own individual character, decorated in bold colours with large comfy beds and thick drapes - great for a good night’s sleep. Quirky touches abound - you might find a turret for a wardrobe, a piano in your bathroom or a church pew next to the loo! You certainly don’t need or want modern technology here, but flat screen TVs are provided in all rooms, with access to children’s channels. An Augill bear sits on the bed (£5 from the sale of every teddy bear goes towards Wendy & Simon’s chosen charity).

Children soon befriend each other round the large table at high tea, tucking into local Cumberland sausages and mash followed by homemade apple crumble and custard. A game of hide and seek may take all evening, with a break for dressing up as a princess or knight, a quick game of snooker or a tinkle on the grand piano. The sound of laughter rings out as they forget all about their Wiis and Nintendos and let their imagination take flight. Outside, a tree-house sits in the far reaches of the extensive grounds, a tennis court is strewn with go-carts, and there is an adventure play area and large trampoline.

For adults, a fixed four course dinner is provided at weekends, and a two course supper at various times during the week. Guests dine together around the large dining room table, adding to the house-party atmosphere, and you can help yourself to wine from the well-stocked honesty bar in the Library. On days when supper is not provided, a list of recommended restaurants is available, or guests are welcome to collect a takeaway to eat in the dining room. After dinner, settle down near the roaring fire in the lounge adjacent to the bar and playroom, or head to the lounge at the far end of the castle, decorated in peaceful cream and neutral shades with window seats overlooking the gardens.

Breakfast is long and lazy, served from 9am until the last guest has finished. Choose from homemade breads with local honey and jams, organic yogurts, freshly squeezed juices and porridge or Full English with fresh Augill eggs, Cumberland ham and eggs or grilled Manx Kippers.

Augill operates on the ethos that a happy child means happy parents. Wendy has thought of everything, fresh milk and mineral water are provided in fridges in the North wing, with space to store baby food. There is a microwave, first aid kits, iron - all the touches parents appreciate having on hand. Wendy and Simon are also environmentally aware and have planted a herb and cut flower garden and in excess of 300 trees and shrubs around the 15 acres of garden. Wood for the numerous lounge fires comes from the castle grounds, and even the dressing gowns are eco-friendly.

Adventure Details

• Room Rate: Double or twin rooms including breakfast from £160. Four course dinner £35 per person. Midweek supper £20 per person.
• Children's Rate: £15 per night for an additional bed in parents room, for 5 - 12 year olds.
• Rooms: 11 rooms including inter-connecting rooms and 'Little Castle' suite.
• In Room: Hospitality tray of fresh coffee, speciality teas, kettle. Lavender hot water bottle. Torch and candles. Environmentally friendly dressing gowns and toiletries, hairdryer. Flat screen TV. Augill teddy bear.
• Baby Monitor: Yes, confirm use on booking.
• Children's Meals: 2 course high tea served from 6pm (earlier if required) - £5 for 3 -12's, under 2's free; selection of finger food and purees.
• Crèche / Play Room: Play room filled with games, books, dressing up costumes, children's snooker table and table tennis. TV and DVDs.
• Other Facilities: Outdoor adventure play area, tennis court, go karts, tree house, wooden fort, 2 adult bikes and 1 children's bike, trampoline, 15 acres of extensive gardens. Wellies. Croquet lawn and outdoor games. Cots, zed beds, high chairs, soft cutlery and crockery. Sealable nappy disposal bins. Use of microwave. Fridges stocked with jugs of fresh milk and mineral water. Iron and ironing board. Laundry service. Non feather pillows.
• Room Service: Wendy and her team are available from early morning until late evening.
• Adult Treats: Sit and relax in one of the sumptuous lounges or at one of the outdoor tables on the terrace or in the garden. Selection of games, books and glossy magazines. A perfect place to unwind.