APPLEBY CASTLE

Appleby-in-westmorland, Cumbria Grade Ii-listed

Harking back to Roman times, when a fort existed on the site to protect the crossing over the River Eden, Appleby Castle is one of the few remaining intact Norman keeps in Britain. Close to the Pennines, it has been held by various kings of Scotland and England, which guests can learn more about on the daily tour. Many of the castle rooms feature oak four-posters and, in the north-east tower, views from the State Bedroom reach to the river itself – now a peaceful haven for kingfishers and wild swans. Double room from £ 100 ( applebycastle.co.uk).