As National Tell a Fairy Tale Day (26th February) approaches, Langley Castle in Northumberland is preparing to make children’s dreams come true. A recent survey commissioned by the castle revealed that a third (33%) of children have never had the chance to play prince, princess, or knight in a real castle.

Step Into a True Fairy-Tale Setting

Langley Castle, a genuine medieval fortress near Hexham, is filled with enchanting features to ignite young imaginations. Children can gaze from battlements, sweep down a grand staircase in princess dresses, or explore hidden passageways, including a mysterious underground tunnel. The spiral staircase, designed to confound invaders, and the still-visible murder hole, once used to pour boiling water or oil on attackers, offer a glimpse into the castle’s rich history. With twelve garderobes (medieval toilets), Langley was built to withstand sieges, making it a truly immersive setting for young adventurers.

A Castle Steeped in History and Literature

Langley Castle dates back to 1350 and was built by Sir Thomas de Lucy, a knight of King Edward III. Over the centuries, it has been home to relatives of royalty. Even literary royalty has visited—J.K. Rowling herself has walked its halls, and visitors will notice striking similarities between Langley Castle and scenes from her famous books.

Unleash Young Imaginations

With a chapel on the battlements, four-poster beds, and raised window seats set within seven-foot-thick walls, Langley Castle is the perfect place for children to step into a fairy-tale world. Whether they reach for a princess tiara, a plastic sword, or even a lightsaber, the castle provides an unforgettable experience.

“Langley Castle has everything a parent could wish for when it comes to creating a magical experience for their children,” says general manager Mohamed Serag. “Even older visitors are awestruck as they sweep up the castle’s drive and step inside.”

Fairy-Tale Dreams for All Ages

It’s not just children who can live out their fairy-tale fantasies. The survey found that 29% of British adults have never slept in a four-poster bed, and 42% have never stayed in a true medieval castle hotel. Many couples have embraced the fairy-tale romance at Langley Castle, whether eloping for intimate weddings or hosting grand celebrations, including spectacular Indian weddings.

Perfect Timing for a Royal Treat

With Valentine’s Day and half-term fast approaching, now is the perfect time to experience Langley Castle’s magic. National Tell a Fairy Tale Day on 26th February provides the ideal excuse for parents to treat their little princes and princesses to a fairy-tale adventure.

Plan Your Visit

Fairy-tale experiences at Langley Castle aren’t limited to February. Whether booking an overnight stay, enjoying a meal, or indulging in afternoon tea, families can step into a world of wonder throughout 2025. Visit www.langleycastle.co.uk to plan your magical visit.

 

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.