Fortress ramparts smothered in blazing creepers, walled gardens hiding whimsical summer houses and minarets so luxurious that no maiden should ever wish to be saved, however handsome the rescuer.
From Scotland’s wild north to the York Moors’ high cliffs and the moody hinterland that marries Cornwall and Devon, the British Isles are rife with dwellings where mythical tales have been conjured; princesses galloping through fiery wars, dragons screaming their way through closed draw-bridges and love so deep it disturbs the deepest, most cursed slumber.
Be the hero of your own legend this year and escape the shackles of the everyday by welcoming 2022 in somewhere extraordinary; somewhere that symbolises individuality, romance and frivolity. Your fantastical castle, tower or folly awaits.
Saffron Tower
Far from the madding crowds of packed city streets, this 12th century tower watches over the wild Welsh coast in a romantic walled garden, sheltered from Anglesey's untameable weather. Once concealed by creeping ivy and transformed into a magical escape for two, Saffron Tower is as fairytale as they come.
Castle on the Well
A castle-like home built on the site of a 6th century chantry, Castle on the Well is complete with castellations and an impressive domed copper ceiling, offering an enchanting retreat for six in rural Devon. Let little ones tear around the gardens, imaginations ignited, while adults watch on with glass of wine in hand.
The Summer Folly
Hidden within the extensive grounds of Grimsthorpe Castle in bucolic Lincolnshire countryside, this curious home sleeping four is a welcoming sight for sore eyes. Combining Renaissance-inspired frescoes and happy pops of colour, The Summer Folly is an ancient building with a fascinating history that awaits your grand arrival.
Found Tower
On the Suffolk coastline, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Found Tower promises a holiday like no other. A Martello tower built to defend the shoreline turned impressive holiday home, here lies a truly unique escape for up to six. The icing on the cake is the 360-degree view from the top terrace.
Dragonwood Boat House
Dragonwood Boat House is an opulent option for couples to flee to this year, sat within a 60-acre country estate in pretty Rutland. The creation of local craftspeople, Harlequin interior designers splashed their trademark gemstone colours all over the inside of this picturesque boathouse to put a unique spin on a traditional Victorian folly. Spend days wandering the pretty gardens or floating atop the lake in kayaks; Champagne picnic on the jetty, anyone?
Thornemead Castle
For a true (and luxurious) step back in time, Thornemead Castle is a proud, stately home on the west coast of Somerset, sleeping 10. Think antiques, history and romance abounding within Gothic walls, all tied together with refined regality and grace.
The Walled Garden
Once upon a time this honey-coloured home was the potato storehouse for Dyrham Park. Set on the edge of the Cotswolds and built of castellated Bath stone, this sweet folly even has its own waterfall to tempt high tea picnics by the ornamental pools in the never-ending garden. Sleeping up to four guests, The Walled Garden has allure by the bucketload.
Browse our fantastical castles, towers and follies collection to find your one-of-a-kind escape for 2022.
