Staying exclusively in your very own castle with family and friends sounds like something out of a fairy story and yet, reader, I am here to tell you that fairy stories do indeed come true at Pennsylvania Castle. Words: Andy Cooper.
That’s my experience having just returned from an amazing stay at this dramatic neo-gothic, nine-bedroom castle which sits on the edge of the Isle of Portland in Dorset overlooking the English Channel. Our family gathering of 12 luxuriated in the gorgeous surroundings of this fabulous building which offers every kind of luxury you will need for an unforgettable stay.
With those nine fabulously appointed bedrooms, plus three reception rooms, an indoor heated swimming pool and a large kitchen – it’s an awesome party house, perfect for large family gatherings or group getaways.
And you couldn’t be closer to the coast – Pennsylvania Castle is perched high up on the rocks at the far end of the Isle of Portland, giving you dramatic views of the seas down below…and an opportunity to take to the adjacent coast path for bracing walks before returning to your luxe accommodation and relaxing.
Our party of 12 didn’t even use all the bedrooms, meaning there would have been plenty of space for more guests. As it was, the space was so bounteous it was perfectly possible to find a quiet room and relax in front of the fire whilst the more boisterous among us enjoyed party games and music elsewhere. And if you need more space for a larger party, then the wider Penn Estate even offers additional adjacent accommodation to complement the castle.
For me, the centrepiece of the whole building was the pool/orangery – a delightfully bright and light room with loungers set around the side, allowing you to relax with a chilled glass of something before taking to the waters.
But running the pool a close second must be the dining room with its adjacent bar area – the perfect spot for a set piece dinner with the food and drink flowing and happy faces gathered around the table and conversing. The adjacent spacious kitchen features just about every gizmo and utensil you might think of to ensure your self-catering stay is ease personified.
But if you want the excellent team at Pennsylvania Castle to take the strain for you, the events team is readily on hand to assist with a range of activities which can also be booked, such as sailing, RIB rides or electric bike tours.
The team also works with a number of catering teams who can offer a wide range of options, from drop-off meals that require simply warming up, to full catering experiences with a private chef available throughout your stay.
And a further wonderful touch is the Penn Creative Collection which can help make your stay extra special. With extensive knowledge of the castle, the team knows how to enhance your celebration through florals, styling, and design, ensuring the guest experience is at the heart of every scheme, creating the right atmosphere.
Frankly, nothing is left to chance and the whole experience was a wondrous chance to gather in sumptuous surroundings and create magical memories.
