Amberley Castle

Enjoying a commanding position over the chocolate-box village of Amberley, the castle from which it gets its namesake, is a 12th-century stay in heart of West Sussex. As you ascend its formidable driveway, beneath its drawbridge gate, you are greeted by more welcoming interiors. Rooms are far cosier than this grandiose edifice suggests, whilst still original features, including lead-pained arched windows and the odd suit of armour. Award-winning dining is superb, with as much as possible seasonal and locally sourced. The ‘three-course’ dinner changes daily, consisting of canapés to start and an amuse-bouche in between each course. For breakfast, a small buffet of expertly baked pastries, fresh fruit, as well as an enormous section of loose-leaf teas and pots of strong coffee. The full English, or eggs any style is a prerequisite to a day spent traversing the surrounding countryside. Not feeling that exertive? Explore the castle’s manicured grounds, keeping an eye out for Bob the white peacock – a long-serving resident at Amberly Castle and guest favourite. Alternatively take a scenic stroll down the village, where you’ll find a charming local pub, tea room, potter’s barn, and not much else! There’s also a tennis court, plus the lively market town of Arundel is just a short drive away.