Bickleigh Castle - A Majestic Devon Estate for Exclusive Gatherings

Location: Bickleigh, Tiverton, Devon, England





Bickleigh Castle is a Norman-era fortress turned luxury estate that sleeps up to 40 guests across 18 bedrooms. Set amid 60 acres of private gardens along the River Exe, this Grade I-listed castle blends historic grandeur with modern comfort. Its exclusive-use grounds offer an idyllic backdrop for fairy-tale weddings, corporate retreats, or any unforgettable group escape in the Devon countryside.





PROPERTY DETAILS



This medieval property includes the castle and several thatched cottages around a courtyard, available exclusively to one group. In total there are 18 bedrooms – including a Tudor bridal suite in the castle and cottage rooms – comfortably accommodating up to 40 guests. You'll have use of a magnificent Great Hall and an atmospheric chapel, as well as perks like a tennis court, croquet lawn, and outdoor hot tub tucked in the gardens.





THE SPACE



n the Great Hall, beneath lofty timber beams and chandeliers, guests can gather by a roaring log fire for feasts or cozy evenings. A separate Mews sitting room with a bar offers a more intimate setting for nightcaps or conversation. Throughout the castle and cottages, stone archways, period furnishings, and plush four-poster beds lend historic elegance, while every bedroom provides modern amenities and splendid views.



Guests can also enjoy use of the hot tub, situated at the back of the Castle beside the croquet lawn. Accommodating 4 to 6 people, it is available for use until 11pm.





GUEST ACCESS



Your booking gives your group exclusive access to the entire estate. All the reception rooms, lounges, courtyard, and grounds are yours to explore freely, with no public visitors or other guests on-site – it’s truly your private castle during your stay. You are free to roam the grounds, enjoy a game of tennis or croquet, and we can arrange special on-site activities like archery or guided tours to enrich your visit.





INTERACTION



Our Fresh Escapes concierge and the castle’s staff will greet you upon arrival and remain on call to assist as needed. They can arrange anything from housekeeping and private chefs to catered events or excursions, but otherwise remain unobtrusive so you can enjoy the castle as your own home.



We have a selection of outside caterers which we can recommend to guests. Guests will need to arrange catering directly with outside caterers. Bickleigh Castle offer Continental Breakfast at £10 per person.





STAYING RULES



To preserve this historic estate and ensure everyone’s comfort, we ask that you follow a few house rules. The property is non-smoking indoors and pet-free. While celebrations are welcome, any event beyond your booking (such as a wedding or large party) requires prior approval. Please respect the antique furnishings and tranquil setting – especially at night – keeping noise to a considerate level.





NEIGHBOURHOOD



Bickleigh Castle sits in the unspoilt Exe Valley of mid-Devon, surrounded by rolling hills and a peaceful valley. The quaint village of Bickleigh is a short walk away (with a traditional pub), and the market town of Tiverton is just 4 miles up the road for shops, cafés, and a 12th-century castle. For a taste of city life, Exeter lies only about 20 minutes’ drive south – home to a magnificent cathedral, historic quayside, and restaurants and cultural attractions.



A range of outdoor pursuits can also be arranged during your stay. Water sports are available through Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre in Exeter, while clay pigeon shooting experiences can be booked nearby. Guests may also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities organised by Phoenix Leisure.



Guests are welcome to arrange their own entertainment, including live music, discos, or bands — we recommend a 4-piece band for the space and atmosphere. Please note that all entertainers must provide a copy of their public liability insurance prior to the event. In accordance with our music licence, amplified music may be played indoors until 1am only, and no amplified music is permitted outdoors.





GETTING AROUND



Bickleigh Castle is about 9 miles from the M5 (J27), 20 minutes from Tiverton Parkway or Exeter St David’s railway stations, and 30 minutes from Exeter Airport. Ample on-site parking is available for guests’ vehicles, and we can assist with transfers or local transport if needed.