Review of Amberley Castle, by Jamie Dunford Wood

You can't beat staying in a real 12th-century castle. Amberley Castle is one such building (1103 AD) in Arundel, converted into a hotel. It's run by castle enthusiasts Joy and Martin Cummings, who have installed peacocks on the lawn and coloured lights in the haunted tower in the ancient walls to give you a scare on a moonlit night.

The neighbourhood is a real plus. It's situated in wonderful English countryside less than two hours from London, handy for opera at Glyndeborne, theatre at Chichester and racing at Goodwood and Fontwell. Local historic houses include Arundel Castle, Petworth House, Parham House and Goodwood. The coast and Brighton is not far away, and the whole area is swimming in wonderful antique shops (see Petworth and Arundel in particular).

Find experimental British cuisine at its Queen's Room restaurant - be sure to book ahead. For an extra special dining experience, guests can hire out Mistletoe Lodge, a thatched tree house overlooking the castle and grounds. Here, a romantic bespoke dinner will be served by candlelight.

The 20 guestrooms are plushly decorated in 'castle' style with their own un-castle-like Jacuzzis, ideal for sipping a gin and tonic in. Ask for a room in the main building, as the ones in the wings can be windy to get to.