Augill Castle is a privately owned Victorian Gothic Folly set in 15 acres of grounds with glorious public rooms and space to sleep up to 32 adults, and seat up to 40 in the dining room.
It was the chance to breathe new life into a sadly neglected castle that brought the Bennett's to Cumbria in 1997. They originally opened a few rooms as a lifestyle business to indulge their passion for the building. The business took off in a way they never anticipated and Augill today is a much bigger project than they could have imagined. Nevertheless, they continue to work hard to retain its unique family atmosphere.
Augill Castle may be unlike anywhere you have ever stayed before. Why? It is, as one guest wrote, perfectly imperfect. The castle has been a family home and they continue to seek to recreate a true country house experience.
Augill is quite simply a place to relax, reflect and kick off your shoes without causing a scandal. They believe big beds, billowing pillows, bath sheets and good showers are more important to you than direct dial telephones, trouser presses and modem ports although, thankfully the castle is now fully superfast wi-fi’d!
“What joy to be back in the real world at such a special place. Fabulous staff, food and divine beds … what more can we ask after lockdown?” May 2021
The place is far from perfect and that’s what makes it all so interesting. 148 windows and an acre of roof take some upkeep. But some of the renovation decisions have led to retaining original features rather than replacing them with new because they want the history of the building to sing – even if it is slightly off-key sometimes.
The Bennetts aim for genuine hospitality made of genuine interactions. They hope you will enjoy what makes them different and revel in creating long lasting memories.
They may do things differently from the norm and Augill is a very personal creation, but they sincerely hope you succumb to the magic, as they have, and enjoy the experience!
Wendy is all about people. She owns the place, loves the place and opens the doors with genuine love for everyone who visits. With 26 years experience, each wedding is still truly individual because she listens to what you want and helps you make it a reality. She is a yes girl. But honest with it. And will assist you all the way from concept to reality. Its personal for Wendy. She cares. And it shows.
Augill Castle, Brough, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, CA17 4DE
