You’ll sleep inside a real 16th-century star-shaped fortress built for Queen Elizabeth I, wake up to stunning harbor views, and enjoy fresh lobster caught by the hotel’s own boat. This unique castle hotel sits on Britain’s most remote islands, offering free swimming pools, tennis courts, and complimentary transfers. You’re surrounded by four acres of beautiful gardens and can easily hop between over 140 islands. Keep exploring to discover what makes this extraordinary destination truly special.
- Sleep Inside a Historic 16th-Century Star-Shaped Fortress Built for Elizabeth I
- Wake Up to Panoramic Views Over St Mary’s Harbour and Surrounding Islands
- Experience Authentic Tudor Architecture Combined With Modern Luxury Amenities
- Explore the Most Remote Archipelago in the UK From Your Doorstep
- Dine on Fresh Lobster and Crab Caught by the Hotel’s Own Fishing Boat
- Relax in Atmospheric Bars Located in Former Castle Prison Areas
- Enjoy Free Access to Golf, Tennis, and Indoor Heated Swimming Pool
- Stay in 4 Acres of Secluded Gardens Sheltered From Atlantic Winds
- Take Advantage of Complimentary Airport Transfers and Island Boat Planning Services
- Choose From 38 Unique Accommodations Including Castle Rooms and Garden Suites
- The Sum Up
Sleep Inside a Historic 16th-Century Star-Shaped Fortress Built for Elizabeth I
When you sleep at Star Castle Hotel, you’re actually staying inside a real fortress that Queen Elizabeth I ordered built over 400 years ago! This isn’t just any castle – it’s got eight sides that form a star shape, which is why it’s called “Stella Mariae” (Star of Mary).
Queen Elizabeth built it in 1593-1594 to protect England from Spanish ships after they tried to attack with their famous Spanish Armada.
The castle has thick granite walls that slope outward to bounce cannonballs away, plus a real moat around it! You’ll walk through the original stone doorway from 1593 to get inside.
What makes this place super cool is that you’re sleeping in the same building where Prince Charles (who later became King Charles II) once hid during a war! The fortress was built with four bastions and a curtain wall to defend against any ships trying to invade the islands.
Wake Up to Panoramic Views Over St Mary’s Harbour and Surrounding Islands
As you open your eyes in the morning, you’ll see something absolutely amazing – St Mary’s Harbour spread out below you like a giant postcard! From your elevated room at Star Castle Hotel, you’re perfectly positioned to watch boats bobbing peacefully in the crystal-clear water while the sun paints everything golden.
You’ll spot multiple islands scattered across the turquoise sea like stepping stones. Look for Tresco’s sandy beaches, Bryher’s rocky hills, and St Agnes lighthouse twinkling in the distance. The Hugh Town quay bustles with colorful ferries bringing visitors to explore.
During sunset, the harbour transforms into a magical light show with boats silhouetted against fiery skies. You can even stargaze afterward, using the twinkling harbour lights below as your foreground for an unforgettable celestial display. The absence of light pollution makes this location ideal for observing the night sky in all its glory.
Experience Authentic Tudor Architecture Combined With Modern Luxury Amenities
Star Castle Hotel isn’t just beautiful from the outside – you’re actually staying inside a real Tudor fortress that’s been standing strong since 1593! You’ll sleep in rooms with thick stone walls that once protected the Isles of Scilly from Spanish raiders. The castle’s eight-pointed star shape and original stonework make you feel like royalty from Queen Elizabeth I’s time.
But here’s the cool part – you get all the historic charm plus modern comfort! Your room has proper heating, comfy beds, and modern bathrooms built right into those ancient walls.
You can eat dinner in the former officer’s messroom or grab drinks in what used to be the dungeons. There’s even an indoor swimming pool and garden cottages if you want contemporary style instead! Located on the island of St. Marys, you’ll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore the stunning Isles of Scilly archipelago.
Explore the Most Remote Archipelago in the UK From Your Doorstep
While most UK destinations require long drives through crowded cities, you’ll wake up at Star Castle Hotel surrounded by 140 untouched islands floating in crystal-clear Atlantic waters! You’re staying on St. Mary’s, perfectly positioned for island-hopping adventures that take just minutes to reach.
During low tide, you can actually walk between some islands – imagine wading from Tresco to Bryher like a real explorer!
Five main islands await your discovery: Tresco’s tropical gardens, St. Martin’s remote beaches, Bryher’s wild coastline, and St. Agnes with the UK’s southernmost farm.
The hotel’s location means you’ll step outside into Britain’s smallest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These remarkable islands formed from granite rock that emerged from deep underground millions of years ago, creating the unique landscape you see today. No other UK hotel offers such immediate access to pristine archipelago wilderness – your island adventure literally begins at your doorstep!
Dine on Fresh Lobster and Crab Caught by the Hotel’s Own Fishing Boat
When you order lobster at Star Castle Hotel, you’re not getting shellfish that’s traveled hundreds of miles in a truck – you’re tasting creatures that were swimming in the crystal-clear waters right outside your window just hours earlier!
The hotel’s own fishing boat, Pegasus, brings fresh lobster and crab straight to the kitchen daily. Owner Robert Francis captains the boat himself, so your dinner goes from sea to plate faster than anywhere else.
You’ll dine in award-winning restaurants where chefs create amazing dishes with that morning’s catch. The menu changes based on what the boat lands, so you might enjoy whole grilled lobster one day and hand-picked crab the next.
It’s like having the ocean as your personal seafood supplier!
Relax in Atmospheric Bars Located in Former Castle Prison Areas
After enjoying that incredible fresh seafood, you’ll want the perfect spot to unwind with a drink – and Star Castle Hotel has something truly special waiting for you. You can relax in the atmospheric Dungeon Bar, located in the castle’s original prison cells from 1593. This isn’t some fake replica – you’re sitting where notorious prisoners were once held, surrounded by thick stone walls and low ceilings that create a cozy, cave-like feeling.
The intimate space feels magical, especially during stormy weather when you can play board games or chat with fellow guests. The castle originally served as a Royalist stronghold and later housed both Royalist prisoners and Parliamentarians throughout its turbulent history.
You’ll love how the former jail has been transformed into a welcoming spot for pre-dinner drinks, making your evening feel like you’re living inside history itself.
Enjoy Free Access to Golf, Tennis, and Indoor Heated Swimming Pool
Three amazing sports facilities await you at Star Castle Hotel, and the best part? They’re all completely free! You’ll love splashing around in the heated indoor swimming pool, which stays wonderfully warm all year long. Parents rave about how clean it’s and how much their toddlers enjoy the water. The pool even comes with a relaxing hot tub.
When you’re ready to get active, grab a tennis racket and head to the on-site court. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, you’ll have a blast playing without paying extra fees. There’s also a dedicated children’s play area where younger guests can have their own fun.
Golf lovers can also tee off for free, making this the perfect spot for sporty families. These top-notch facilities will definitely make your island vacation extra special!
Stay in 4 Acres of Secluded Gardens Sheltered From Atlantic Winds
Since Star Castle Hotel sits snugly within ancient 16th-century granite walls on Garrison Hill, you’ll discover something magical happens here – those fierce Atlantic winds that whip across other parts of the island can’t reach you!
The thick granite ramparts create a natural windbreak, turning four acres into your own protected paradise.
You’ll wander through lush sub-tropical gardens where palm trees actually thrive, thanks to this clever shelter.
Your garden room opens directly onto peaceful lawns, and you can lounge on sun terraces without getting blown away!
The elevated but tucked-away location gives you gorgeous harbor views while keeping you cozy. The courtesy transport service ensures you can easily reach the main areas without the uphill walk back.
Even your dog will love exploring these traffic-free gardens, and you’ll enjoy quiet evenings with minimal wind noise – pure island bliss!
Take Advantage of Complimentary Airport Transfers and Island Boat Planning Services
Getting to your garden sanctuary couldn’t be easier! Star Castle arranges transfers from St Mary’s Airport, which is just one mile away – that’s only five minutes by taxi! You don’t need to book anything in advance because Island Transfers meets every Skybus and helicopter arrival. Their friendly, uniformed drivers wait in the small arrivals area and help with your luggage. Best of all, these convenient airport transfers cost just £6.00 for a single journey.
Want to explore other islands like Tresco or St Agnes? The hotel’s got you covered! They’ll transfer you to St Mary’s Quay for boat connections, and their boatman Rafe helps plan your island-hopping adventures. When it’s time to leave, they’ll arrange your return pickup and provide reminder cards so you won’t miss your flight. Everything’s organized for you!
Choose From 38 Unique Accommodations Including Castle Rooms and Garden Suites
Whether you’re dreaming of sleeping in a real castle or prefer cozy cottage vibes, Star Castle’s 38 unique rooms have something perfect for you! You can choose from actual castle rooms with original features and sea views, or pick one of the historic Guard Rooms built right on the castle walls. Each Guard Room has its own entrance – it’s like having your own mini-castle!
If you want something quieter, the garden rooms feel like staying in a country cottage. Some even come with private lawns where you can relax outside.
For families or longer stays, the garden suites work like apartments with separate lounges and amazing harbor views. The Garden Suites offer modern, spacious rooms with outdoor seating, providing a contemporary experience alongside the hotel’s historic atmosphere. Every room was updated in 2015, so you’ll have modern comfort while enjoying centuries-old charm.
The Sum Up
You’ll absolutely love staying at Star Castle Hotel! It’s like sleeping in a real-life fairy tale castle with amazing views all around you. You can swim, play golf, eat delicious seafood, and explore magical islands right outside your door. The hotel’s staff will help you get around easily, and you’ll have your own special castle room or garden suite. It’s the perfect adventure spot that’ll make memories you’ll never forget!
