At the northern end of the Wirral Peninsula is a picturesque beach with golden, soft sand. Nestled amongst low dunes, Leasowe Bay is a picturesque hideaway with phenomenal views.
Leasowe Castle was built in 1593 for Ferdinando Stanley, 5th Earl of Derby, as an observation platform for the Wallasey races. When it was owned by the Cust family in 1815, the first St Bernard to be brought to England lived within the castle walls.
The castle was owned by several family members until it became the Leasowe Castle Hotel in 1891. It was then bought by the Trustees of the Railway Convalescent Homes in 1910 and housed German prisoners of war during the First World War.
Until 1970, a superior, an assistant superior, a head gardener, a maintenance technician and various catering and housekeeping staff lived in the castle. It lay dilapidated until 1982, when it was bought and restored and has been a hotel ever since.
Visitors can book a stay at Leasowe Castle, which has nearly 50 rooms to choose from. Some have been modernised, while others feature four-poster beds and the classic castle aesthetic if that’s what you prefer. Thankfully, most rooms have lovely sea views.
Elsewhere in the castle is Brasserie 1593, which is open to the public for breakfast and dinner. The hotel currently has a reception room called ‘The Star Chamber’, which is often used for relaxation, afternoon tea and events. If you prefer to sit outside, Wreckers Bar has a relaxed beer garden with a menu of alfresco food and drinks.
The ceiling of the Star Chamber in the Palace of Westminster was brought to the palace in 1836, along with panelling and other furnishings, including tapestries depicting the four seasons. The room got its name because the ceiling was decorated with bright stars. It was salvaged from the old Palace of Westminster before the Star Chamber was demolished in a building project in 1806, and remains in the palace today.
Leasowe Castle is also a great place to celebrate, offering guests the opportunity to hold wedding ceremonies and large events within its walls, all with the picturesque coastline as a backdrop.
Book a stay or find out more about Leasowe Castle here
