A castle hotel has opened a new luxury villa for guests within its grounds.

The ceremonial ribbon cutting at Toll Bar Luxury Villa was performed by the Baron and Baroness of Langley, Stuart and Mariann Madnick.

Toll Bar Luxury Villa has two ensuite rooms, an exclusive entrance, and private parking.

Guests staying at the villa will have views of the 14th-century Langley Castle.

They will also be able to head into the castle as much as they wish, as well as dine in the restaurant and bar and enjoy afternoon tea.

A hearty Northumbrian breakfast is even available.

Guests will also be able to take advantage of the free daily battlements tour, which offers insights into the castle’s history.

Ms Madnick said: "We are immensely proud to have added yet another facet to the guest experience at Langley Castle and to create an opportunity that is unique in the UK.

"We are not sure of anywhere else where self-catering guests can wake up to the sight of a medieval castle through their windows, or castle hop and enjoy its facilities.

"We hope that this unique blend of features will soon make it a hugely popular choice within the options on offer at Langley Castle."

The Toll Bar Villa project has been in the works for more than a year, since Mr Madnick bought the property from the Bates family, who also once owned the castle.

The Bates family had been responsible for much of the castle's restoration in the late 1800s, following centuries of neglect after torching by King Henry IV's troops as retribution against then-owners the Percys for supporting a rival.

The villa has undergone extensive renovation work and landscaping.

It is so named because tolls on the old turnpike road were collected on its site in the 18th century.

Other accommodation options at Langley Castle include staying inside the castle itself, in a deluxe or feature room, opting for a suite or room in the former stables, or staying in Castle Lodge, in a secluded area where some rooms have outdoor seating areas.

Details of the villa and other accommodation options at Langley Castle are available at www.langleycastle.co.uk