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 adding 'an incredibly personal touch'. Family photographs and cushion-heaped window seats complement the antiques. It is very family friendly, with everything from baby monitors to dressing-up clothes. 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, sumptuous bedding, towels and robes. Bathrooms are huge, some with a roll-top bath. In the Music Room restaurant, pick two or three small plates to share tapas style – perhaps pigeon breast, lentil and kidney bean dahl or chicken tagine – or if you don't want to share, order a double portion for a single dish. An 'amazing breakfast' includes freshly squeezed orange juice, smoked salmon and scrambled egg, and egg Florentine. (TA, SM)