Coachman’s Quarters

All right, you’re not exactly sleeping inside Muncaster Castle, but it’s near as can be, with a unique B&B experience available in the renovated coachman’s lodgings and hay-lofts around a cobbled courtyard, with the manicured castle lawns just a step away. And in the evening, when everyone has gone home for the day, you’re left to sip a glass of wine in the Muncaster gardens and play at being lord of the manor for a while. Rooms vary from cosy doubles to larger family rooms – and indeed if you’re looking to arrange a large family gathering, you can book the entire block for your party.  Both B&B and self catering options are available and there is a large, well equipped, communal kitchen.  All of the rooms are fresh and clean, with stone walls and exposed beams adding plenty of atmosphere.

There is ample parking adjacent to the rooms and plenty to see and do right on your doorstep. The castle itself dates back to 1026 and has been the Pennington family home since at least 1208. Dogs are allowed into two of the bedrooms, as well as the communal lounge area, and there is no shortage of space to exercise them. Castle tours are informative and residents enjoy free entry to the extensive rounds around the castle, as well as discounted rates on castle tours and a variety of other local attractions. There are plenty of walks from the door, including a lovely stroll down into Ravenglass which boasts stunning views, the fascinating remains of a Roman bath-house and the ever popular Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, affectionately known locally as La’al Ratty, which will whisk you up into the heart of the stunning Eskdale Valley.