Thornbury, South Gloucestershire, UK
This sturdy castle turned luxury hotel dates to the 1500s and was once owned by King Henry VIII. This is where he came with his ill-fated second wife Anne Boleyn on their honeymoon, and where his daughter from his first wife, who was to become Queen Mary I, lived for several years. Turrets, walled gardens, paneled rooms with decorated ceilings, rooms decorated with cozy wall hangings, open fireplaces, and four-poster beds: You can practically taste the history. You can even try your hand at royal pastimes such as falconry and archery.
Thornbury Castle lies 12 miles out of the city of Bristol and within easy reach of the Cotswolds, should you get bored with being royalty.