Berkeley Castle - Salt House
Stroud
View on Google MapsPhoto: Berkeley Castle
An 18th-century Grade II listed building, Salt House stands at the end of Berkeley Castle's private driveway with the kind of history you notice in its bones. The recent renovation respects the Georgian architecture while introducing contemporary utilities—central heating, wifi, electricity included—so you're not camping in the past. Locally sourced furnishings and thoughtful design fill spaces that actually work for a large group rather than fighting you at every turn.
The layout spreads across two floors: a ground floor with open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas where everyone can gather, plus seven bedrooms and five bathrooms distributed above. Six rooms have double beds; one has two singles. Five bathrooms with baths and walk-in showers mean mornings run smoothly with 14 people in the house. The kitchen has electric and gas cooking, a fridge-freezer, and space to prepare meals. Parking for four cars sits on the property, and one well-behaved pet stays free.
Berkeley itself occupies the Vale, on the western edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The 12th-century castle dominates the town; Dr Jenner's House and Museum is close by, and Cattle Country Adventure Farm sits on the outskirts for families with younger children. The Cotswold Way is a short drive for walkers. Stroud's independent shops and Cirencester's wider facilities are within reach for a day out. No smoking indoors.
Sleeps & rooms
What's on offer
Check-in & check-out
Arrive after 16:00 Depart before 10:00
🚭 No smoking, please
What guests say
The website says allow 1 hr 15 mins for the guided tour, ours lasted 1 hrs 45 mins as the guide was so knowledgeable about the castle. Lots to see in every room and all explained. We also had lunch in their kitchen garden. I can't recommend it enough, very good !
a month ago · via Google
Absolutely gorgeous castle! This was my second visit and I was just as impressed as the first time. Lots of history - very very informative and well kept historical articles. Very friendly and helpful staff. Amazing and completely gorgeous gardens - so well kept and beautifully colourful and impressive. Love the pond (previously a pool!) and the awesome flower displays and memorial gardens. Would recommend walking all the way around the castle as there are so many lovely parts of the gardens around the back too! Such a lovely day out. So much on there all the time and it’s always so impressive! There was music from a local band and the market was up when we went which was a lovely final touch!
2 months ago · via Google
My partner and I had an excellent 5 hours at Berkeley Castle. Fairly reasonable at £17 each (we gift aided and then we're given a voucher for free entry for a year!) and we paid £2.50 extra each for a brilliant guided tour which lasted 90 minutes. We pre-booked everything in advance but saw people paying on the door too (we went on a Monday and it wasnt too busy). This Castle has such a varied history and is filled with interesting items (Sir Francis Drake's chest, Queen Elizabeth I's blanket, a Gainsborough painting, a narwal tusk, porcelain...and a lego display at the moment!). There are stories of murder, of joy, of backstabbing, of strong women, of famous visitors, of family. Vicki, our guide, was a brilliant story teller. The site has been used in various films and TV shows so feels familiar. We had tea and cake in the cafe which was lovely and reasonably priced. The staff everywhere were so kind and friendly. The gardens are beautiful. Definitely worth a visit, but check opening times in advance as they are only open certain times of year and of the week.
3 months ago · via Google
Visited Berkeley Castle for my birthday and had such a lovely, fun day. The castle is full of history and character, and the grounds are beautifully kept. The staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, which really added to the experience. There’s plenty to see, from the fascinating interiors to the gardens, and it felt like a real step back in time. A wonderful place to spend a special occasion—I’d highly recommend a visit!
3 months ago · via Google
Visitors say this castle offers a rich history, with many interesting artifacts and well-preserved rooms to explore, alongside beautiful and extensive gardens. They also highlight the excellent value, especially with annual passes and guided tours, and appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Summary via Google