This castle in Wales has been compared to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and is said to be ‘like stepping into a giant storybook filled with knights and kings’
The castle dates back to the 13th century(Image: Ceri Breeze via Getty Images)
Brimming with history and overflowing with character, this Welsh castle has captured the hearts of visitors who’ve compared its splendour to some of the globe’s most iconic landmarks.
Caerphilly Castle is a medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century and, after a two-year restoration, has reopened its doors to the public. Visitors can now wander through the Great Hall and inner castle ward whilst exploring cutting-edge digital exhibitions inside. It was originally built by Gilbert de Clare as part of his strategy to maintain control of Glamorgan – then Wales’s most populous and industrialised county.
With the Prince of Wales’s influence rapidly expanding, he needed to establish his authority swiftly. To achieve this, construction began in 1268 on what became the nation’s largest castle and second only to Windsor Castle across the entire UK.
Spanning more than 30 acres with massive walls and gatehouses, alongside extensive water defences, it’s fair to say his ambitions were realised. One visitor shared their impressions on TripAdvisor, saying: “A sprawling site that is quite impressive.
“The large site minimises crowding, so you should be able to enjoy the site at your leisure – we certainly did. Limited amount of interiors remaining but still well worth the visit.”
To grasp just how enormous this fortress truly is, it’s three times larger than the Principality Stadium, Wales’ rugby headquarters. Many have likened it to Italy’s iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, thanks to its own tilting tower which makes it all the more distinctive.
One visitor said: “Caerphilly Castle is like stepping into a giant storybook filled with knights and kings. From the moment you lay eyes on its towering walls, impressive moat and imposing towers, you are transported back in time.”
Another highlighted the tower as their standout feature, saying: “This is one of the most beautiful castles in the UK. It is very pretty, especially the leaning tower.”
Located in South Wales, Caerphilly Castle sits just 30 minutes by car from Cardiff city centre. It’s also conveniently positioned less than an hour from Swansea and within 90 minutes of Gloucester.
Entry to the castle is reasonably priced, with adult tickets at £11.90 and family passes at £38.10, whilst disabled visitors and children under five can enter free of charge. Commenting on the admission cost, one guest remarked: “I have paid more for far less at other mansion houses, etc, and this was so worth the entrance fee.”
Head out to explore Conwy Morfa Beach and the local seaside, where you can treat yourself to fresh cockles and fish and chips.
The hotel is also close to Llandudno, Wales’ largest seaside resort. This town is home to a bustling high street, famous promenade and pretty pastel houses.
Guests looking to unwind can also visit the Quay Hotel Spa.
Here you can enjoy a thermal area, a spacious swimming pool, a vitality pool, heated loungers and foot baths.
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If you’ve got cash to splash, the treatments here are fantastic, designed with skincare brand Oskia.
What is there to eat and drink at the hotel?
The hotel restaurant and bar offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery, and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Book a treatment or simply chill out by the indoor poolCredit: The Quay Hotel and SpaThe hotel offers spa packages for both the daytime and overnight staysCredit: The Quay Hotel and SpaConwy Castle was built in the late 13th centuryCredit: The Quay Hotel and Spa
Dishes include a 24-hour slow-cooked beef that melts in the mouth, as well as salted caramel cheesecake.
The hotel restaurant is also well-known for its delicious seafood, including mussels and mackerel.
Swing by the Cove Bar afterwards and cosy down on one of the comfy sofas – the house red is excellent.
What are the rooms like?
Each of the rooms are bright, airy and beautifully decorated in calming, coastal hues.
Pick from Cosy Cove rooms, the smallest of the bunch, or Superior and Executive rooms, which have a bit more space.
Is the hotel family friendly?
The Quay Hotel and Spa offers some suites that have room for two adults and two children.
The hotel also offers dog-friendly stays in their ground floor Superior Rooms.
Just make sure to mention you’ll be bringing them when booking.
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
The Quay Hotel and Spa is fully wheelchair accessible.
With spooky season upon us, John Ellis settled down for a night with the ghosts and ghouls at Chillingham Castle
21:29, 20 Oct 2025Updated 21:30, 20 Oct 2025
John spends a sleepless night at Chillingham Castle
As I switched off the light and climbed into bed, I trembled with fear. I was spending the night with the ghosts and ghouls at Britain’s most haunted castle – Chillingham, in Northumberland. I’ve loved all things spine-chilling for as long as I can remember. Horror films, ghost tours – I can’t get enough. That said, I have to say, lying in the dark in a place where people experience the paranormal on a daily basis, I did begin to wonder what I’d got myself into. Would there be a bump in the night? Only time would tell. But with Halloween just around the corner and spooky season in full swing, there was never a better time to find out.
Chillingham Castle dates back to the 13th century, although there’s been evidence of occupation on the site for 4000 years. It used to be a stronghold which protected England from Scotland and has therefore seen its fair share of violence. And it’s grim and grisly past lives on to this day with regular reported visits from beyond the grave.
“Chillingham has had many turbulent times and a fair amount of Scottish prisoners met their end here,” Richard Craig, Chillingam’s ghost hunt guide, tells me. “Then, when the castle moved into domestic matters and became more of a gentleman’s manor, there were a lot of staff coming in and out, along with all the aggravations of the time. They have embedded themselves in the walls of the place too. Along with nearby burial sites, there seem to be lines of energy at Chillingham which make it a meeting place for the moved on.”
Richard sees spooks all the time. “We’ve had some pretty curious occurrences. I could sit and talk to you all week. Yes, I’ve seen ghosts. It goes on day and night. On Wednesday I observed three different apparitions. One of them, it was raining at 4.30pm in the afternoon, on the south lawn. It lasted about five seconds and then it was gone. They like stairways too, areas of passage.”
Not all supernatural encounters are visual, he says. “Some you see, some you don’t. You might simply sense their presence. You might get a funny feeling, or one of sadness. There could be a strange smell. Lady Mary for example smells of roses, while the ghost of Crawling Key smells of rotten cabbage.”
Some are friendly, some are not. “Some have a sense of humour,” says Richard. “Simon the stone mason, he’s a shoulder tapper. He likes to mess about with men with tufty hair at the back. Crawling Key however goes for ladies’ ankles.”
Some of Chillingham’s ghosts lived there, some worked there. “One came through on a ghost listening app and told me his name – Booey – and I then found his name in one of the old books on site. He held quite a high position on the estate.”
On my arrival through the grand castle gates I had an uneasy feeling immediately. You could almost feel the history weighing on you in the courtyard. Chatting to Richard, it seemed I was not alone – in every sense of the saying. “The courtyard is haunted by the executioner… and a man named John,” he tells me. “If you go out after dark, chances are you’ll meet him – and the rest of our resident ghosts.”
Beside me, I could feel the regret radiating from my friend Glen for agreeing to come with me on my trip to Chillingham. “Why did I agree to this?” he muttered on a frequent basis throughout. But – sorry Glen! – it was too late to back out now. Richard advised us to download a couple of apps to enhance our paranormal experience. I know, right? Very high tech for a ghoul. But Ghost Talker Lite and Spirit Box, Richard said, would help us to communicate with any of the deceased who wished to make our acquaintance.
And later, ghost John did indeed come through. “John. Danger. Weapon…” the words popped up on the app. My twin, Stu, who had also come along for the ride, bristled at the encounter. Did he mean I – John – was in danger? Or he – also John – was in danger? I couldn’t be sure, but for one of us was impending peril. It sent a shiver down my spine knowing a ghost was so nearby.
Feeling spooked, we decided to walk around the castle grounds for some mental respite. However, we found none, instead chancing upon the castle’s Hanging Trees, a tangled mess of tumbled-over yews, the branches on which intruders and prisoners were once – as the name suggests – hung, until their flesh fell off their bones. How lovely. A clear night, the moon was out. A gentle breeze through the trees made an eerie creaking sound. Chilled to my core, I couldn’t get away fast enough.
So… do most people make it through their night at Chillingham Castle? I have to say it wasn’t looking good for the three of us. “The amount of runners I’ve had is unbelievable, lots of people chicken out,” laughs Richard. “One group of seven, we’d only been going 90 minutes and they couldn’t take any more. One of them kept getting poked in the ribs by a ghost and another was being pushed around. Even the tea room is haunted.”
I tell Richard where we’re staying in the castle – The Tower Apartment. “Ah yes, that is haunted,” he says. Glen nearly passes out. Stu turns pale. Richard continues: “In 2022, I stayed over, went to the bathroom, I was just about to turn the tap on, and a girl’s voice said ‘hello’. I had a good look around – no one.” So far, so terrifying.
And indeed, it was a fitful night’s sleep to say the least. Glen slept with the light on. Stu was unbothered and snored his way til morning. And me? Every sound I heard, every bang or bump, I wondered if it was a paranormal pest… or simply the castle’s ancient plumbing playing up. Dawn seemed to take an age to come, and when it did arrive I was grateful. We rose wearily, looked about the room, and began to pack our things. I had survived my night in Britain’s most haunted castle – just.
*Apartments at Chillingham Castle start from £139 for two people for one night
THE world is full of amazing places to go for a dip, but one spot really is a ‘hidden’ gem – as you can swim underneath a castle.
The Château d’Urspelt, in the heart of the Éislek region of Luxembourg, is a luxurious hotel within a former castle.
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The Château d’Urspelt is in a former castle and can be found in the Éislek region of LuxembourgCredit: AlamyAnd hidden below the castle are amazing caves that guests can swim through.Credit: chateau-urspelt.luThere are different areas, including places to sit and just enjoy the peaceCredit: chateau-urspelt.lu
But below it is the ultimate surprise – a pool designed in the shape of a sunken grotto.
Guests can step into the pools, with different rock-style formations across the walls and ceilings, as well as plants draping down.
And the indulgent experience doesn’t stop there as the spa also has six treatment rooms, a relaxation room, two hammams, two saunas, a whirlpool and a fitness room.
After enjoying the different spa areas, guests can put their feet up and relax with a cup of tea in the tea room.
Access to the wellness area costs €60 (£52.36) per person, or it is free when you book a massage or treatment.
As for the castle-turned hotel, which opened back in 2008, the rooms are equally as decadent as the spa experience.
There are a variety of different room types to choose from, with 57 rooms and suites.
Continuing with the theme of grandeur, in the castle’s historic cellars – which were dug out by hand from the original basement – is the U Lounge Bar.
When workers were digging out the basement, they also discovered a well, which has since been exposed.
The bar serves a range of drinks including spirits, wines and cocktails.
The rooms are lavish as well, as are the multiple places to grab a bite to eatCredit: chateau-urspelt.lu
Alternatively, guests can head to The Library for a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
In the morning, guests are invited to head behind the reception desk to reach a sprawling buffet breakfast, with homemade jams, freshly baked cakes and honey produced by bees on site.
The outdoor pool, which overlooks the entire estate, even has its own bar, serving up refreshing drinks and light snacks.
In the warmer weather, guests can enjoy the indoor-outdoor Patio or for a more refined experience, The Dining Room.
Otherwise the château is also home to an orchard, three running and walking routes and even electric scooters for hire.
For when the weather is nice, there is a heated outdoor patioCredit: Alamy
Rooms at the hotel cost from around £147 per night and the hotel is located around an hour from Luxembourg Airport.
Travellers looking to explore the surrounding area won’t be short of options either, as the château is close to many charming towns.
For example, 30km away from the château is Vianden Castle, which was built between the 11th and 14th centuries.
In fact, it was named as one of the 20 most beautiful castles in the world, by CNN Travel.
And each year the castle hosts a medieval festival in August, with duelling knights and jugglers.
In fact, Alness stop on the North Coast 500 (NC500) route – a popular 516-mile scenic road trip in the Scottish Highlands.
Around Alness you get great views as it’s close to the Cnoc Fyrish hill, and the Cromarty Firth which is home to seals and bottlenose dolphins.
One of the best views is up near the Fyrish Monument, a stone ruin high up on the hillside that overlooks the Cromarty Firth.
For anyone driving through on the NC500, or visiting, make sure to make Dalmore Distillery one of your stops.
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It’s one of Scotland’s most famous whisky producers and Dalmore Distillery has been making single malt Scotch whisky since 1839.
The site has said it will re-open to visitors in 2026 with a “new experience” for whisky enthusiasts.
Dalmore Distillery has been making single malt Scotch whisky since 1839Credit: UnknownDalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant has won an Travellers’ Choice Award by Tripadvisor for 2025Credit: Supplied
Very near the distillery is Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant, the town’s locally run farm where you can pop in for a bite to eat.
The farm shop won a Travellers‘ Choice Award in 2025 for its consistently high reviews, particularly for its cakes.
But they also serve up breakfast from eggs benedict and the ‘breakfast stack’ to lunch, like steak flatbread to scampi and chips.
For anyone wanting to hunker town in Alness, the two hotels on the high street are the Commercial Hotel with rooms from £80 per night.
Or at the other end of the high street is the larger Station Hotel with big rooms around £110 per night, and there’s a pub underneath.
One of the best spots for views is at the Fyrish MonumentCredit: Alamy
Nearer to Ardross Castle is the Kildermorie Estate, a traditional Scottish Highland Estate open throughout the year.
It’s around 19,000 acres with plenty to do for those looking for activities from fishing in the lochs to bird watching and hiking up the Carn Chuinneagh mountain.
There’s accommodation on the estate too from cottages that sleep two to the lodge that can host up to 20 guests.
As for Ardross Castle, it’s sadly not open to visitors.
But if you’re up for a hike, some fans of the show have said you can get views of the front of the castle across the valley at Wester Lealty.
Others say you can hike along the coastal path where you can spot the castle in the distance.
Here are 7 castles you can stay in to feel like you’re on The Traitors…
Leasowe Castle Leasowe Castle is nestled along the Wirral seaside and is a 15 minute drive from Liverpool city centre. The castle has basic twin, double and master bedrooms with four-poster beds. It also has suites in the castle including one in the tower and one in the turret. Historically, Leasowe dates back to the 16th century, and has a unique octagonal tower.
Tulloch Castle Hotel
Tulloch Castle is a 12th-century-castle set against the landscape of the Highlands of Scotland, and is a five-minute drive away from Dingwall. The hotel is dog friendly, and nature fans can explore the North Coast 500 route too. The castle retains many of its period features, including the 250-year old panelled entrance hall, and restored original fireplaces and ceilings.
Castle Bromwich Hall
Castle Bromwich Hall really gives off Traitors vibes thanks to its gothic appearance. The mansion on the outskirts of Birmingham is a Grade I listed building and has retained many original features from the 1700s, including the huge entrance hall and grand staircase. The bedrooms are kitted out with traditional looking furniture, from four poster beds to chandeliers and claw foot bath tubs. You can even stay in their ‘Bridal Suite’ which was used in by Queen Elizabeth I.
Cave Castle Hotel
Cave Castle Hotel has over 350 years of history with original turrets and stone features. The huge castle in Hull has 71 rooms, some with four-poster beds and modern features in the newer wings. Cave Castle also has offers like Galentines, which for a girls night away includes Prosecco on arrival and treatments at the spa. The hotel has got ratings of 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor with guests “impressed” by the “spectacular” building and “picturesque” grounds.
Walworth Castle Walworth Castle, in the Tees Valley countryside, dates back to 1189, and is set in 18 acres of lawns and woodlands. It’s a good choice for anyone who has an interest in the paranormal as the castle its said to be haunted, with murder mystery evenings too. They offer four poster tower suites with double Jacuzzi baths as well as an also an award winning restaurant and farmers bar.
Lumley Castle Hotel
Surrounded by parklands and overlooking the River Wear is the Lumley Castle Hotel in County Durham. Lumley Castle Hotel was built in 1388 and converted into a hotel in 1976. The most impressive room is the King James Suite which has a 20ft high four-poster bed, its own reception room and Jacuzzi bath.
Ruthin Castle Hotel and Spa
The four star castle hotel is found within the Clwydian Range in North Wales and has been dubbed “romantic” by guests. Ruthin Castle has rooms from standard to deluxe suites as well as on-site spa with mud room, woodland hot tubs and massages, body scrubs and facials. Guests on Tripadvisor were particularly impressed with the gardens and the “peacocks on the grounds”. They also have garden games like croquet and giant chess.
Celebrity Traitors has kicked off as Claudia Winkleman returns to host a line-up of famous faces including Jonathan Ross, Alan Carr, Stephen Fry, Kate Garraway, Tom Daley and more
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Claudia Winkleman has returned to host the Traitors and Faithfuls(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Studio Lambert/Euan Cherry)
The highly-anticipated Celebrity Traitors has finally kicked off this week, with Claudia Winkleman returning to the Scottish Highlands to pit traitors versus faithfuls for a potential £100,000 prize pot for charity.
The Traitors‘ castle has become an iconic location thanks to its picture-perfect landscaped gardens, huge grounds, breathtaking library, living room and even its own bar. It’s therefore not surprising that fans always clamour to find out if they can hire it out for a holiday with their friends and recreate their own Traitors experience.
The real-life location is Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, around half an hour’s drive north of Inverness.
Unfortunately before you rush to book a room at the beautiful 19th century spot, it’s not a hotel. However, it can be hired for the likes of weddings or corporate events. The landmark’s website is quite clear: “The estate is located in Ross-shire and is available for exclusive use hire for both corporate and private clients. The Castle is not a hotel and we do not let individual rooms.”
If you do hire it, don’t expect to find the infamous Roundtable Room; the whole set-up with the table and atmospheric decor is for the show.
It’s not hugely surprising; even during the show, the Traitors and Faithfuls themselves don’t sleep on the property but instead get whisked away to a nearby hotel, as Ardross Castle wouldn’t have enough rooms to accommodate all of the participants. (Although they do of course travel back to have breakfast in that gorgeous dining room, even if those breakfasts can get very tense).
Don’t be disheartened if you were picturing a fun weekend in a castle for a big group holiday; there are plenty of other castles across the UK which are open for bookings. Sykes Holiday Cottages, the Landmark Trust, Host Unusual and Big House Experience all have a variety of castle listings that cater to a wide array of budgets and group sizes.
It appears that The Traitors has caused quite a boost of tourism in Scotland, with increased searches for stays in the areas. Chris Ross, Chief Brand Officer & EMEA Executive Chair at Collinson International, said of the trend: “We’ve seen a remarkable uplift in visits to our Scottish airport lounges, and it’s clear that The Traitors has played a major role in putting Scotland, and especially the Highlands, firmly on travellers’ wish lists.
“Our data shows fans are turning their on-screen fascination into real-world adventures, with more travellers than ever flying to Scotland to experience the drama, beauty and intrigue for themselves. Scotland’s moment in the spotlight really is translating into a tourism boom.”
One travel lover has taken to TikTok to share her recommendation for a UK trip to a ‘real-life fairytale castle’. It has been described as “one of the largest and most complete castles in England”
Samantha Bartlett Assistant Editor, Social News
06:03, 09 Oct 2025
She described it as a ‘real-life fairytale castle’ (file)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
It’s always nice to have a trip abroad planned. However, as well as taking a holiday overseas, it’s also great to explore the stunning places the UK has to offer.
One travel lover has taken to TikTok to share her recommendation for a UK day trip to a ‘real-life fairytale castle’. Aleksandra, known as @aleksandra10s on TikTok, shared a clip of the ‘hidden gem’ with her 3,273 followers telling them that it was “one of the largest and most complete castles in England” that is in “pristine” condition and has “beautiful” gardens. And what as the location she was talking about? Arundel Castle, based in Sussex.
Aleksandra shared clips of the castle’s stunning grounds in a video set to Disneys ‘Beauty and the Beast’ soundtrack.
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She commented: “Arundel Castle, in Sussex, is a real-life fairytale castle in pristine condition and beautiful gardens. One of the largest and most complete castles in England, it’s a gem worth visiting.”
The castle is a restored and remodelled medieval castle that was first was established by Roger de Montgomery in the 11th century.
People were loving the clip as many said they also enjoyed a visit to the castle.
One person commented: “I love Arundel Castle, one of my favourite places to visit.”
While another agreed: “Such a magical place like a real-life fairytale.”
A third chined in: “I live 10 minutes down the road and still love walking past it.”
The castle suffered damage in the English Civil War and then restored in the 18th and early 19th centuries by Charles Howard, 11th Duke of Norfolk. Further restoration and embellishment was then carried out from the 1890s by Charles Alban Buckler for the 15th Duke.
Since the 11th century, the castle has been the seat of the Earls of Arundel and the Dukes of Norfolk. It is also a Grade I listed building.
Those who want to visit will have to plan a trip in soon as the 2025 season will only runs up until Sunday 2nd November.
The gardens are open from 10.00am – 5.00pm, as is the Fitzalan Chapel. The Keep can be visited from 10.00am – 4.30pm and Castle rooms are open between 12.00 noon – 5.00pm.
Visitors should also note last admission is 4.00pm and the castle is closed on Mondays, except bank holidays and in August.
The conjurers have decided to stay put at Hollywood’s Magic Castle.
In a membership vote of the Academy of Magical Arts that concluded Monday, members say that about 92% of those voting endorsed a reorganization plan designed to give control over the castle’s operations and revenue to a company owned by Magic Castle landlord Randy Pitchford.
As part of the deal, AMA members can continue to use the castle as their clubhouse. The AMA, a nonprofit group, would continue to promote magic, running educational efforts and awards programs.
If the magicians had voted no, they would have needed to find a new venue at the expiration of their lease on Dec. 31, 2028.
Members said they received results by email from the academy Tuesday morning, with tallies showing a 1,038-89 vote to approve changes to AMA bylaws and a 1,043-84 vote to approve changes to AMA articles of incorporation. The vote “will provide a strong foundation for the future of the Academy of Magical Arts,” wrote Christopher Grant, president of the AMA board of directors, in an email to members. The Magic Castle remains open daily and leaders have vowed a swift transition to new management.
Leaders of the AMA and Magic Castle Enterprises — the Pitchford-owned company taking over operations — declined to comment on the results. An AMA spokesperson said “the AMA and MCE treat membership proceedings as private club matters and therefore refrain from public comment on internal processes.”
The AMA’s membership was recently put at 4,664, suggesting that most academy members didn’t vote.
In the run-up to voting, some members said they were not being told enough about what the AMA gets out of the deal. Several academy members said that moving from their historic home could deeply damage the AMA.
“We’ve given up a significant portion of self-governance for an undefined and indefinite occupancy,” said Ralph Shelton, a longtime AMA member and attorney who opposed the proposal.
Soon after reporting vote totals on Tuesday morning, AMA leadership sent another missive saying that veteran Magic Castle general manager Hervé Lévy was leaving his position, effective Tuesday. Lévy was not immediately available for comment.
The Magic Castle opened in 1963.
(Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)
The Magic Castle, a 1909 Edwardian-style mansion, opened in 1963 as a clubhouse and performance venue for the Academy of Magical Arts, a nonprofit group founded by the Larsen family. The membership vote, conducted Sept. 8 through 29, follows several dramatic changes for Pitchford, the Magic Castle and the Academy of Magical Arts.
Despite trouble in 2020, when the pandemic shut it down and a Times investigation detailed allegations of sexual harassment and racism, the mansion reopened in 2021 amid a leadership overhaul.
Pitchford, 54, is a longtime academy member, having married his wife, Kristy Pitchford, in the castle in 1997. His Texas-based company, Gearbox Entertainment, created the popular Borderlands video game franchise. When he bought the Magic Castle building in 2022, he inherited a lease that allows the AMA to remain at the castle through December 2028. Rather than negotiating to extend that pact, Pitchford and his team MCE have been working on plans for a dramatic reorganization.
With the changes, Pitchford’s MCE is to gain control of castle operations, including its restaurant, bar, gift shop and valet parking. Also, MCE will get to nominate two members to the AMA board, which will shrink from nine members to five.
Some members expressed faith in Pitchford’s long history with the Magic Castle and noted that two members of academy’s pioneering Larsen family hold key positions with MCE. During the voting period, longtime AMA member Christopher Hart, who serves as chair of the academy’s board of trustees, said, “I think [Pitchford] has tried to do everything in his power to preserve the nature of this iconic place.”
Nunney has previously been dubbed the ‘prettiest village in England’ and it’s easy to see why, with its medieval castle, traditional pub and picturesque surroundings
This gorgeous town is perfect for a weekend getaway(Image: David Goddard, Getty Images)
It’s almost time for the clocks to go back, and chillier weather is settling in, now’s the perfect moment to secure a snug winter break closer to home.
Fortunately, Britain boasts some stunning locations, with beloved spots scattered across the nation.
If you’re lacking ideas, there’s a charming village that’s previously been dubbed England’s ‘most beautiful’ that’s absolutely worth exploring this winter.
Nunney is a tranquil village nestled in the heart of the West Country, within Somerset’s Mendip district.
The village is rich in heritage, much of which remains visible today.
Its medieval fortress, traditional village local and gorgeous surroundings are standout attractions for tourists.
The French-influenced castle, originally constructed for Sir John Dalaware in 1371, is encircled by a deep moat and is believed to have been modelled on Paris’s Bastille.
The walls remain largely preserved and it is “in perfect scale with its surroundings”, according to Visit Somerset.
Enthusiastic ramblers will be delighted to find the village trail.
Obtainable from Frome’s Tourist Information, the trail offers the finest way to discover the village’s attractions.
If you’ve built up a hunger whilst discovering Nunney, you might fancy popping into The George pub, which conveniently sits directly across from the castle.
As a traditional 17th century coaching inn, The George boasts exposed timber beams and crackling fires during winter and dishes up substantial local fare alongside 10 rooms for visitors travelling from afar. If you fancy extending your trip, consider a visit to Frome, a mere two miles from Nunney.
Recognised as one of the Times “Best Places to Live in Britain”, Frome is renowned for its historic architecture and independent boutiques.
As “the original Somerset Market Town”, Frome has kept up the tradition with regular markets every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. The Frome Independent Market also makes an appearance on the first Sunday of each month from March through December.
Labelled as a “mini festival”, this monthly market takes over the entire town, drawing in thousands of visitors who come to browse the shopping stalls, sample local food and drink from vendors, and enjoy the street entertainment.
One village has been named as a ‘perfect quiet alternative’ to a popular seaside resort, which has also been labelled one of the UK’s happiest places
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Warkworth is becoming an increasingly popular choice as a staycation destination(Image: hopsalka via Getty Images)
Bamburgh, with its stunning castle and picturesque beach, was recently crowned one of the UK’s happiest places. But there’s another Northumberland gem that’s giving it a run for its money.
“Just down the coast from Bamburgh, Warkworth offers the same fairytale feel but with fewer visitors and a riverside twist,” the experts said. “Like Bamburgh, it boasts an imposing medieval castle with sweeping views, but instead of a clifftop perch, Warkworth’s fortress rises above a peaceful loop of the River Coquet.
“You’ll still find golden beaches nearby, but here the pace is gentler. Explore craft shops, row to a hidden hermitage carved into the rock, or unwind in a cosy pub where the fire’s always lit.”
Situated a 40-minute drive from Bamburgh and just 30 miles from Newcastle, Warkworth has been receiving well-earned praise this year. It was also recently named by experts at Sykes Holiday Cottages as one of the top “up-and-coming” destinations for UK staycations.
The 12th-century Warkworth Castle, which towers over the village from its elevated position in a curve of the River Coquet, welcomes visitors throughout the year, with tickets available to purchase through English Heritage.
Featuring its distinctive cross-shaped keep and remarkable stone carvings, plus hosting everything from falconry displays to medieval tournaments, the castle represents just one of numerous historical treasures that guests can discover during their visit to Warkworth.
Another essential destination for history enthusiasts exploring the village is Warkworth Hermitage, an impressive 14th-century chapel and priest’s residence hewn into a cliff face that lies concealed along the river and can only be reached by boat journey.
Meanwhile, Castle Street serves as the principal thoroughfare in Warkworth and boasts some of the “most scenic views in Northumberland,” according to the county’s tourism board. Warkworth Castle is positioned at one end, and the village’s 12th-century church is at the opposite end.
There are numerous unique accommodation options in Warkworth, ranging from a 200-year-old stone cottage situated directly on the riverbank to a converted dairy and cow byre transformed into a holiday lodge. Additional highly-rated cottages available for booking for brief stays in the village include:
There are also some top-rated hotels in the village where visitors can rest their heads, with the number one option according to reviews on Booking.com being Bertram’s, a boutique B&B that is also a café during the day and a bistro at night. It is closely followed by Warkworth House Hotel, a dog-friendly hotel with 14 rooms to choose from.
It has been used as a location for a number of blockbuster movies and TV shows known for the stunning views and ‘timeless architecture’ with lots to do for everyone to enjoy
The infamous castle recognisable to Potterheads(Image: Getty Images)
A Northumberland castle, known for its appearances in blockbuster films and hit TV shows, has been named one of the top film locations to visit in the UK.
The castle has been praised for its ‘timeless architecture’ and ‘stunning’ surroundings. For years, the cast and crew of the popular drama Vera have descended upon the North East each summer to film new series of the beloved show.
While Gateshead, Newcastle and South Shields have all featured, it’s Northumberland that has been the primary filming location, with numerous spots in the area taking centre stage as Brenda Blethyn retired from her iconic role earlier this year.
Northumberland also made waves on the big screen in 2025, following the release of Danny Boyle’s zombie sequel 28 Years Later. The film shot straight to the top of the UK film charts after its summer release.
The Oscar-winning director utilised various locations in the region for his story, including Rothbury, Kielder and Holy Island, reports Chronicle Live.
While it didn’t make an appearance in 28 Years Later, Alnwick Castle is no stranger to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, having now been named one of the top film locations in the UK by travel gurus at Holiday Cottages.
The castle, which served as the backdrop for key scenes in the first two films, including the iconic flying lesson in The Philosopher’s Stone, has also played host to the cast and crew of big-budget blockbuster Dungeons and Dragons, as well as the acclaimed period drama Downton Abbey and Star Trek: The Next Generation.
In their glowing review of the famous landmark, Holiday Cottages wrote: “Northumberland has long been a favourite location for filmmakers because of its captivating history and landscapes that seem almost otherworldly, and one of its most famous landmarks is Alnwick Castle, which will be instantly recognisable to fans of a certain wizarding franchise as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two films.
“Visitors can wander through the Outer Bailey, where Harry first learned to fly on a broomstick with Madame Hooch, and children and adults alike can experience the magic themselves by taking part in the castle’s Broomstick Training Lessons, while the courtyards recall the memorable scenes when the flying car came crashing down in the early films.”
The travel site heaps praise on Alnwick, describing it as a ‘joy to explore’ with its enchanting cobbled streets, unique shops and stunning coastline, all contributing to its ‘magical’ staycation appeal.
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A Hollywood institution known for mystery, deception and drama, the Magic Castle is now gripped by a new variety of suspense.
Magic Castle mansion owner Randy Pitchford, who bought the establishment in 2022, has presented a reorganization plan to his tenant, the Academy of Magical Arts. The AMA is the nonprofit club that operates the castle and whose performer-members have helped build it into one of the world’s top venues for magic.
In a series of proposals, Pitchford has offered AMA members a choice between embracing his plan — which gives him control over castle operations and most revenue — or finding another clubhouse when the academy’s lease expires Dec. 31, 2028.
Members have until Sept. 29 to decide.
With backing from the AMA’s board of directors, Pitchford presents this moment as a chance for the academy to secure a vibrant future for the Magic Castle while preserving its legacy.
But the proposal is causing “division, fracturing and confusion” among many AMA members, as one magician, Ralph Shelton, put it. Some members, who asked not to publish their names, told The Times they believe that Pitchford is using an ultimatum to take control of the castle. Other members say they simply worry that Pitchford is giving AMA members too little information.
“The easiest people to fool are magicians and scientists,” said Shelton, a Huntington Beach attorney who put himself through law school by doing magic. “You know what they’re looking for and you work around that.”
Pitchford did not immediately respond Thursday to requests for comment on the allegation that he is using an ultimatum to take control of the castle. But Pitchford and his team had said that by taking over the risks and rewards that come with running the Castle, his company is freeing up the AMA to focus on its non-commercial mission — promoting magic — “for as long as it wishes to use the Magic Castle as its clubhouse.”
Since Sept. 8, the academy’s 4,664 members have been casting electronic votes on whether to change the organization’s bylaws and other documents to allow the proposed realignment. In previous polling, the members who voted have heavily favored a deal. A “yes” vote would mean the reorganization would begin as soon as Oct. 1.
At the Magic Castle, guests say a secret password to enter.
(Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)
Pitchford learned magic at the castle before building a video game empire as the co-founder of Gearbox Entertainment. In a Sept. 9 statement to The Times, he noted that he and his wife were married in the Magic Castle’s Palace of Mystery in 1997, “so our investment into its preservation and quality is quite personal to us.”
As an AMA member for more than 30 years, he said he is “thrilled that the Academy of Magical Arts, with the overwhelming support of the membership, are our ally in forging a bold, mission-first partnership for at least the next 30 years of magic at the Magic Castle.”
The Magic Castle, a 1909 Edwardian-style mansion, opened in 1963 as a clubhouse and performance venue for the Academy of Magical Arts, which was founded and sustained for years by the Larsen family. From the start, the academy was a tenant in the building, leasing from private owners, the Glover family, on terms often described as “a handshake deal.”
For decades, visitors have been drawn by the idea of dressing to the nines and roaming room to room, sipping cocktails as conjurers and sleight-of-hand artists ply their trade. Performers and members have included Cary Grant, Johnny Carson, Orson Welles, Jason Alexander, Neil Patrick Harris and Larry Wilmore (who sits on the board of directors). Exclusivity is part of the appeal, too. To get in, most guests need an invite from a member.
The enterprise ran into trouble in 2020 when the pandemic shut it down and a Times investigation detailed allegations of sexual harassment, groping and racism. In 2021, the mansion reopened amid a leadership overhaul.
Erika Larsen, president of Magic Castle Enterprises, and mansion owner Randy Pitchford.
(Tara Ziemba / Getty Images)
The latest chapter in the castle’s story began in April 2022 when Pitchford bought the property from its longtime landlords, the Glover family.
Pitchford, 54, whose Texas-based company created the popular Borderlands video game franchise, is a controversial figure in the video game industry. His purchase of the castle, valued by the L.A. County Assessor at $50 million, also included an adjacent apartment building and the 33-unit Magic Hotel next door.
About the same time as the castle purchase, Pitchford also bought intellectual property rights to the Magic Castle name from Milt Larsen, who died in 2023.
When Pitchford was announced as buyer of the castle, many academy members voiced optimism. “We were absolutely thrilled beyond measure,” said Paul Kott, an Anaheim-based commercial and residential real estate broker who has been an AMA member for 50 years. “We know his heart wants to dedicate this place to the art of magic.”
To manage the new holdings, Pitchford and his wife, Kristy Pitchford, created companies called Magic Castle Enterprises (for intellectual property) and Magic Castle Entertainment (for real estate), together known as MCE. They also enlisted Erika Larsen, daughter of castle pioneers Bill and Irene Larsen, as president of Magic Castle Enterprises, and Jessica Hopkins, granddaughter of Bill and Irene Larsen, as chief operating officer.
In January 2024, the AMA’s leadership told members that the group’s lease on the building would not be renewed — causing a surge of anxiety among members — and that academy board was negotiating with MCE in hopes of keeping the group in place.
On July 30, 2024, AMA members said they received an email that included a warning from MCE saying that if it couldn’t make a deal with the academy, MCE might “create a new club with enticing features and pricing” that “might possibly lead to [the academy’s] demise.”
(In a later email exchange with The Times, Pitchford said he did not recall that specific sentence; he did not respond to a request to confirm or deny the passage.)
In December 2024, AMA leaders invited members to vote on a proposed “resolution implementation agreement” for MCE to take over the Magic Castle’s commercial operations while the academy remained on site indefinitely and focused on its nonprofit role, including awards programs and educational efforts.
MCE reported that more than 90% of ballots favored the deal. Opponents said that a minority of members cast votes. A second vote yielded similar results.
Further details emerged in a “white paper” document that MCE circulated in February 2025. It said MCE would operate and collect revenue from the castle gift shop, bar, restaurant, box office and valet parking. AMA members would pay dues through a new entity which would divide that revenue between MCE and the academy. The Magic Castle would serve “as the exclusive clubhouse of the AMA indefinitely.”
MCE also pledged to invest $10 million in capital improvements and maintenance and relieve the AMA of remaining lease and trademark-related financial obligations. Meanwhile, the AMA board of directors would gradually shrink from nine members to five, two of them nominated by MCE.
In March, the Magic Castle announced that the MCE and AMA board of directors had signed a resolution implementation agreement, the framework for a deal. An AMA spokesperson said that MCE and the AMA board of directors “have negotiated terms for long-term access. Details of the agreement will not be released.”
“I think [Pitchford] has tried to do everything in his power to preserve the nature of this iconic place,” said longtime member Christopher Hart, who serves as chair of the academy’s board of trustees, which oversees artistic choices at the castle. Hart played “Thing,” the disembodied hand, in the “Addams Family” movies.
“The rumors have been so rampant in so many directions,” said Gay Blackstone, a longtime member who has served in many roles on the academy board of directors and board of trustees. Blackstone said she still has research to do before casting her vote but “I know that [Pitchford’s] love and passion for the magic are tremendous.”
Still, for some, doubts persist. “I don’t think the membership is being given what they need to make a good decision…. How long can we stay? how much is it going to cost?” Kott asked.
Now comes another membership vote. On Sept. 8, members began a binding vote on proposed changes in academy bylaws and other documents that would make the new deal possible. Those changes include creation of a Magic Castle Club, separate from the Academy of Magical Arts.
That “is an important wrinkle,” Shelton said.
The concept of the Magic Castle Club “is not to compete with the A.M.A., but we needed a new entity to collect dues on behalf of the A.M.A. and MCE per the arrangement,” Randy Pitchford said in a statement to The Times Sept. 15. Once an agreement is in place, Pitchford said, “All club activities, events, initiatives, etc, are and will be led and directed by the Academy of Magical Arts.”
The goal, MCE leaders have said, is “a seamless transition with a focus on an uninterrupted member and guest experience.”
If the membership rejects the changes, Christopher Grant, president of the academy’s board of directors, said in a statement that “MCE will terminate its current lease with the AMA” and the academy would need to find a new clubhouse by January 2029.
Further effects of a “no” vote, especially for academy-member performers and audiences at the Magic Castle, are harder to predict.
In his Sept. 9 statement, Pitchford suggested that the new proposal puts in place “the same kind of relationship that founded and created” the Magic Castle in the first place.
“Change is always scary,” Hart said. “Members just want the same experience they’ve always had and loved about the castle.” The proposed changes, Hart added, “could make the castle greater than it’s ever been.”
Posters calling for the release of the Epstein files are displayed on a wall in Washington, DC on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. On Tuesday, four people were arrested in Britain over projecting videos and photos of the two men together on Windsor Castle. Photo by Annabelle Gordon/UPI | License Photo
Sept. 17 (UPI) — Authorities in London have arrested four adults accused of being responsible for the projection of photos and videos of President Donald Trump with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein onto Windsor Castle on Tuesday night.
Uncorroborated video of the projection posted online shows it appeared to be a video detailing the connections and friends between Trump and Epstein involving videos and photos of them together.
The video was projected on London’s famed Windsor Castle ahead of Trump’s visit to London for a state visit.
Thames Valley Police said Tuesday night that four adults were arrested on “suspicion of malicious communications,” while describing the video protest as a “public stunt.”
“Our officers responded swiftly to stop the projection and four people have been arrested. We are conducting a thorough investigation with our partners into the circumstances surrounding this incident and will provide further updates when we are in a position to do so,” Chief Superintendent Felicity Parker of Thames Valley Police said in a statement.
All four suspects, whose identities have not been made public, remained in police custody as of Tuesday night.
Epstein died by apparent suicide in a Manhattan jail in August 2019 while awaiting trial for sex-trafficking offenses.
The disgraced New York financier was a longtime assocaite of the president, and their relationship and questions surrounding it have dogged Trump for much of his second term.
Trump, who campaigned on releasing federal investigation files on Epstein, has received strong criticism from not only Democrats but from members of his on base for not making those documents public.
Late last month, a House committee released records from Epstein’s estate that included a birthday letter to Epstein from Peter Mandelson, resulting in British Prime Minister Keir Starmer firing him as London’s ambassador to the United States.
The committee last week also released a lewd, decades-old birthday note allegedly from Trump to Epstein.
Trump has attempted to brush the issue aside, calling it a “Democratic hoax” and the birthday note a “fake.”
The American president has sued both The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal over their reporting on the letter.
Trump is scheduled to be in Britain from Wednesday through Friday, during which he is to visit Windsor Castle, where King Charles III will host him and first lady Melania Trump.
This will be Trump’s second state visit to Britain, following his first in 2019.
The outdoor enthusiasts at Millets have compiled a list of the UK’s best free hidden gems, based on ratings on TripAdvisor and Google, and the results are in
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This beach has been named England’s top free hidden gem(Image: Getty)
England is brimming with hidden treasures, from quaint, untouched coves in Cornwall to breathtaking woodland strolls in Lancashire. Embleton Bay, a beach tucked away in the north of England, has been crowned the country’s top free hidden gem.
This pristine and dramatic beach in Northumberland has won the hearts of visitors from far and wide. The outdoor experts at Millets have curated a list of England’s top free hidden gems, based on TripAdvisor and Google ratings, with this stunning beach clinching the top spot.
The top pick of Embleton Bay is an unspoilt stretch of coastline, flanked by low dunes and overseen by the imposing ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. It’s also a stone’s throw away from the historic town of Embleton, which boasts the UK’s largest village hall.
The ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle can be seen from the beach(Image: Getty)
Dunstanburgh Castle, whose remnants are visible from the beach, was erected in the 1300s by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, a cousin and adversary of Edward II. By the late 1800s, the castle had deteriorated into ruins, and the remains of Dunstanburgh became a favourite subject for artists and poets.
And it’s not just the outdoor specialists at Millets who rave about Embleton. One visitor took to TripAdvisor to write: “Beautiful, quiet dog friendly beach with great views. A castle at one end of the bay and a pub at the far end up at Low Newton By The Sea.
“Embleton Beach is pretty amazing. We were lucky enough to be staying in a cottage overlooking the bay and walked the dog on the sands every morning, often with nobody else in sight!”.
Meanwhile, another visitor gushed: “Embleton bay is a hidden gem on the Northumberland coast. The beach is powdery white sand and the sea is clear and safe for bathing. Dunstanburgh castle makes a dramatic backdrop and it is a pleasant walk along the coast to Craster.”
Embleton offers a peaceful escape from the crowds drawn to other beaches(Image: Getty)
A third raved: “Beautiful beach and coastline. Water very clear, and looked clean. Great views of Dunstanburgh Castle, sandy and rocks, great for dogs and children.”
One more holidaymaker remarked: “This is a delightful and peaceful beach with wonderful views of the nearby castle. Wonderful to watch the birdlife. It is very peaceful and calming, but unfortunately that depends on how many dogs are around at the time.”
Revealing the findings of their study into England’s finest free hidden treasures, Millets blog writer Sam Chadwick explained: “The UK is full of beautiful locations, and in recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors. We have collated our ultimate hidden gems list, revealing the highest rated hidden gems that are completely free to enjoy.”
An anime film slayed its Hollywood competition at the box office this weekend.
“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle,” already a big hit in Japan, was the highest-grossing movie domestically, beating new films “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale,” “The Long Walk” and “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.”
The film distributed by Sony Pictures and Crunchyroll opened with a better-than-expected $70 million in ticket sales from the U.S. and Canada, according to studio estimates, making it the biggest anime opening ever. It’s also the highest-grossing domestic debut of the year so far for an animated film.
Its global weekend for Sony, which owns the Crunchyroll anime brand and streaming service, totaled $132.1 million, which includes 49 international markets.
Globally, “Demon Slayer” had already made more than $272 million in box office revenue, with $213 million in Japan alone, according to data from Box Office Mojo.
The success of “Demon Slayer” is a relief to theater owners at a time when other genres are struggling, including superheroes, comedies and original animation. It’s the latest evidence of anime’s growing global clout.
The new “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” is part of a larger popular anime franchise.
It’s the first installment of a planned trilogy that will span the final showdown between the Demon Slayer Corps and the monstrous creatures the secret organization was created to defeat. A previous theatrical film, “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba — The Movie: Mugen Train,” was a box office hit in 2020.
The new “Downton Abbey” film from Focus Features launched with $18.1 million in ticket sales in the U.S. and Canada, which was good enough for third place behind the second weekend of New Line’s “The Conjuring: Last Rites.” Lionsgate’s “The Long Walk,” based on a Stephen King novel, opened in fourth with $11.5 million domestically.
“Spinal Tap II,” a sequel to the 1984 mockumentary comedy classic, opened with a weak $1.7 million.
AN ancient town that was once the largest behind London is found in the Cotswolds.
Cirencester is often nicknamed the Capital of the Cotswolds, being its largest town.
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Cirencester is dubbed the Cotswolds’ capitalCredit: Alamy
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The town was once the largest behind LondonCredit: Alamy
It was founded by the Romans, and was even the second largest town behind London at the time.
Now, it remains a popular market town and a commuter spot, being less than an hour from the capital.
There is the central Cirencester Market Place, with a market every Monday and Friday, as well as seasonal ones on Saturdays.
Don’t expect to find many chain shops in town either, with the majority being independent stores.
Read more on the Cotswolds
Make sure to head to Malt and Anchor, named one of the best fish and chip shops in the UK.
The town even has its own Cirencester Castle, which dates back to the 1107.
The town is is home to its own lido as well, which opened back in 1870.
Cirencester Open Air Pool is open until next week, before closing for the season.
There are two pools, a four-lane adult pool which is always at 26C as well as a kids pool.
Our pool’s serenely beautiful setting is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town so come and enjoy the sessions that run from May to September.
I stayed in the new cosy treehouses right in the middle of the Cotswolds which are perfect for an autumn break?
The main pool is 27m long, has 4 lanes and is kept at an inviting 26 degrees. Originally built as a 30 yard pool, a 1 mile swim is 59 lengths.
We also have a children’s pool that’s 0.5m deep.
One of the popular places to stay is the Kings Head Hotel, which was named as the best hotel breakfast in the UK last year.
Along with that, it also has 66 rooms, as well as an underground spa and on-site deli.
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Now it is a popular commuter townCredit: Alamy
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It is also home to a popular lidoCredit: Alamy
Three other Cotswolds places to visit
Bourton-on-the-Water Often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this village is famous for its beautiful low bridges over the River Windrush, scenic streets, and attractions like the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Birdland Park and Gardens.
Bibury Described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury is renowned for its quaint stone cottages along Arlington Row, the tranquil River Coln, and the picturesque Bibury Trout Farm.
Stow-on-the-Wold This historic market town offers a quintessential Cotswold experience with its charming market square, antique shops, historic inns, and the impressive St. Edward’s Church, famous for its unique door flanked by ancient yew trees.
Aug. 15 (UPI) — Former congressman and Gov. Michael N. Castle, R-Del., has died at the age of 86, the politician’s family confirmed in a post online.
The moderate Republican served two terms as governor between 1985 and 1992 before being elected to Congress in 1993.
“Congressman Mike Castle was a founding member of the Republican Main Street Partnership, a leading organization for centrist Republicans, and worked in a bipartisan manner to help move people from welfare to work, support fiscally responsible government, improve public education, and protect the community,” his family said in the statement.
“He served on the House Committee on Financial Services, Committee on Education and Workforce and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.”
Castle, who is survived by his wife of over 33 years, Jane DiSabatino, ultimately became the longest-serving member of Congress from Delaware in the state’s history.
He also served as the lieutenant governor of Delaware from 1981 to 1985 prior to being elected governor, and in the state legislature before that.
“Over the arc of the more than 40 years that I knew him – I met him when I was 16 – he repeatedly provided his knowledge and expertise to help me along my own way,” Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said in a statement, calling Castle an “incredible man.”
“When we eventually ran against each other, I did my absolute best to run a respectful, positive, policy-based campaign. As we campaigned against each other, I only liked him more.”
Castle was known as a backer of educational and environmental reforms.
As a member of Congress, Castle was a major proponent of the 2001 “No Child Left Behind,” legislation that was an effort to improve test scores among U.S. school children.
“Governor Castle understood there is no greater legacy we leave to future generations than the quality of our environment. As Governor, his administration’s Environmental Legacy program to protect and preserve forests, wetlands, and beaches won recognition for its foresight and impact,” his family said in the statement.
In addition to DiSabatino, who he married in 1992, Castle is survived by his “many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.”
Visitation will take place August 21 at a funeral home in Wilmington, Del.
Astronaut Jim Lovell, commander of the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission to the moon, died August 8, 2025, in Illinois, his family announced. He was 97. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
Drumnadrochit is a small village in the Scottish Highlands that is famous for being the home of the Loch Ness Monster, but it has so much more to offer than that.
Drumnadrochit is home to the “picturesque” Urquhart Castle(Image: MG Photography via Getty Images)
Many tourists heading to Scotland aren’t chasing sunshine. They flock to these shores seeking breathtaking scenery and fascinating heritage – with some grub and tipples on the side.
There’s a tiny Highland village that manages to deliver on virtually every front for holidaymakers – yet most Scots likely couldn’t even tell you what it’s called. Drumnadrochit has earned fame as the supposed dwelling place of the Loch Ness Monster, but there’s more to it than that – it’s also home to one of the globe’s most celebrated and recognisable fortresses, provided you’re an Outlander fan.
The village itself houses barely 1,100 residents, though numbers balloon each year as monster seekers arrive hoping to spot the legendary beast, reports Scottish Daily Express.
Visit Scotland’s website hails Drumnadrochit as amongst the finest spots for discovering the Highlands. It states: “The village is surrounded by the glens, Glen Urquhart and Glenmoriston, as well as the Great Glen that reaches across from Inverness in the east to Fort William in the west.
The Highlands village is home to the mythical Loch Ness monster(Image: Getty Images)
“The area is rich in things to see and do with activities ranging from exploring Urquhart Castle, a classic romantic ruin jutting out into the loch, horse riding, cycling, cruising the length of Loch Ness and fishing trips.
“Loch Ness, the largest and most famous loch in the Great Glen, is a top UK holiday spot that draws crowds each year hoping to spot Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness monster.
“The Nessie replica might be as close as you get to the real deal, but you can also delve into the eerie history of monster hunting facts and folklore at the centre.
“Nessieland lets you watch a documentary about monster sightings over the years, and explore the Nessie caves to uncover the legends and mysteries. The attraction also boasts an adventure playground and offers cruises on Loch Ness.”
Urquhart Castle, with its stunning views and rich Highland heritage, has been the backdrop to some of Scotland’s most dramatic historical events.
It saw intense military action from the 1200s until 1692 when Edward I of England – known as the “Hammer of the Scots” – seized the castle in 1296. The fortress was later retaken by the Scots and once again fell into English hands.
The castle has an impressive 4.3 rating on TripAdvisor (Image: TomasSereda via Getty Images)
Urquhart Castle has a 4.3 out of five rating on TripAdvisor with one visitor posting: “I came to Loch Ness for Urquhart Castle. The place transcends words, and inspires paintings. It’s so gothic and romantic, I loved the fact that it overlooks the deepest part of the loch and called out to Nessie from the beach next to the castle. The best views up close is definitely to be had on castle grounds.”
Another said: “The magnificent Urquhart Castle is on the shore of Loch Ness and a beautiful and short drive from Inverness. We left Inverness around 9am and had a very pleasant drive to Urquart Castle stopping once at a popular viewing point to see the Loch Ness.”
A third added: “The Urquart Castle was a great experience! We spend around an hour and a half there and we were lucky enough to get great sunny weather so we weren’t too cold and got great photos!
“We really appreciated that we didn’t need to go on an organized tour and we could just go through at our own pace and read all the information. The castle isn’t very big so you can really see everything they have there pretty quickly and see the amazing views. Our experience was probably made better our lucky weather but we would go back again for a peaceful walk.”
