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About

Please visit www.Smithmore.com

Welcome to Smithmore Castle, America’s singular five-star castle hotel and the pre-eminent stage for life’s most distinguished occasions. Commandingly poised amidst the romantic grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smithmore Castle unites the august charm of a bygone age with the refinement of modern luxury. From its noble towers one beholds sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Eastern Continental Divide, and the lofty crown of Mount Mitchell—scenery as resplendent as the memories awaiting your creation.

Smithmore Castle is not merely a lodging; it is a realm unto itself. This British Victorian jewel, restored with painstaking devotion, boasts chambers, lofts, and suites of singular distinction. Whether ensconced within the Royal Tower View Suite—rich with Victorian finery and delicate swan motifs—or wandering the tranquil garden retreats, one is ever immersed in an atmosphere of cultivated grandeur. Panoramic balconies, turreted towers, and secluded perches frame views of peerless majesty, imparting to each guest an ineffable sense of timeless nobility.

As the sole five-star castle hotel in America, Smithmore remains unwavering in its pursuit of excellence. Gastronomy here is elevated to art: celebrated chefs curate menus that harmonise classical tradition with contemporary flair, yielding repasts to delight even the most exacting connoisseur. Whether partaking in an intimate supper or a sumptuous banquet, one may be assured of epicurean splendour coupled with service of unerring grace.

The Castle is the consummate setting for matrimonial unions, illustrious gatherings, corporate assemblies, and treasured family reunions. Exclusive hire of the estate affords absolute privacy, encompassing all lavish quarters, eleven appointed baths, and the Castle’s expansive 100-acre grounds. With accommodation for twenty-three guests—including the youngest babes—and a dedicated team to orchestrate every detail, each event unfolds with seamless magnificence.

Here, within these walls, every moment is steeped in enchantment. Allow Smithmore Castle to be the stage upon which your most cherished memories are set, imbued with the majesty and grandeur befitting a royal household.

History & Locale
The saga of Smithmore Castle began in 2008, when Lord Robert acquired the estate, bestowing upon it the family name and honouring the pastoral beauty of its mountain fastness. By 2017, the Castle opened its gates to private events, and in 2020, it ascended to the rank of a full five-star hotel with its own distinguished restaurant. Nestled upon a secluded mountain estate exceeding one hundred acres, reached only by the steep ascent of English Knob, the Castle has garnered national renown, gracing magazines, television, and music videos as a veritable icon of splendour and romance.

Amenities & Diversions
Smithmore Castle embodies the very essence of British Victorian architecture: hand-wrought frescoes, imported adornments, and a Swarovski crystal chandelier commanding the Knights Hall. Guests revel in more than 15,000 square feet of stately elegance, inclusive of eight bespoke bedchambers, a Spanish Lounge, a vintage bar, and a hearth rising three stories in stone.

For the spirited adventurer, trails adorned with riddles of Old England lead to hidden caves, whilst diversions such as archery, culinary masterclasses, etiquette tutorials, and wine tastings provide endless delights. Views of Mount Mitchell, the Toe River Valley, and the Eastern Continental Divide unfurl in majestic panorama.

A devoted concierge attends each bespoke stay, complemented by the artistry of a five-star executive chef. For grand occasions, the resplendent Crown Hall—boasting a commercial kitchen and bridal powder room—hosts gatherings of up to seventy-five with aristocratic aplomb.

Smithmore Castle is where history and elegance entwine. Here, amidst towers and turrets, one discovers not merely a hotel but a legacy—a castle of dreams awaiting your presence.

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Frequently asked questions

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during peak season?

$4,500

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?

$4,500

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during peak season?

$4,500

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during off-peak season?

$4,500

Which of the following are included in the starting site fee?

Bridal Suite
Chairs
China
Clean Up
Event Planning
Flatware
Glassware
Linens
Parking
Set Up
Tables

Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?

Cake Cutting
Dessert
Server(s)
Wedding Cake

What is the starting price per person for bar service?

$100

Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?

Bartender(s)

What is the minimum number of guests required to book your venue?

10

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

3

Describe your venue:

Ballroom
Banquet Hall
Historic Building
Hotel
Mansion
Winery

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party
Elopements
Rehearsal Dinner

What event services do you offer?

Accommodations
Bar Services
Catering Services
Clean Up
Event Planner
Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms
Liability Insurance
Outside Vendors
Pet Friendly
Wifi

What catering services do you offer?

Buffet
Cocktail Reception
Dessert
French Service
Hors d'oeuvres
Plated
Server(s)

What bar services do you provide?

Bartender(s)

What event items are available?

Chairs
Furniture
Tables

What food and beverage items are available?

Barware
China
Flatware
Glassware
Linens

What transportation and access is available?

Parking
Shuttle
Valet
Wheelchair Access

Reviews of Smithmore Castle

This AI-generated summary gives you a snapshot of the overall ratings and feedback from the reviews this vendor has received.

Review summary

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Smithmore Castle has left a lasting impression on guests, truly embodying a fairytale experience with its impeccable service, stunning beauty, and elegant ambiance. Guests are captivated by the professionalism and warmth of the staff, who go above and beyond to ensure every detail is executed flawlessly. The exquisite food offerings receive high praise, enhancing the overall luxury and magic of events hosted at the castle. Whether for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations, Smithmore Castle comes highly recommended as a top choice for a regal and unforgettable wedding venue.

Review summary

Powered by AI
This AI-generated summary gives you a snapshot of the overall ratings and feedback from the reviews this vendor has received.

Smithmore Castle has left a lasting impression on guests, truly embodying a fairytale experience with its impeccable service, stunning beauty, and elegant ambiance. Guests are captivated by the professionalism and warmth of the staff, who go above and beyond to ensure every detail is executed flawlessly. The exquisite food offerings receive high praise, enhancing the overall luxury and magic of events hosted at the castle. Whether for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations, Smithmore Castle comes highly recommended as a top choice for a regal and unforgettable wedding venue.

Isabella Lawrence
Isabella L. Sent on 04/07/2025
5 out of 5 rating

The Only Real Castle in North Carolina– A Dream Wedding Come True

We came from Miami not quite knowing what to expect—but the moment we stepped through the gates of Smithmore Castle for our initial tour, we knew. It was love at first sight. The architecture, the views, the regal charm… nothing else in the States even comes close. We’ve visited other “castles” before, but trust us—this is the only real one.

Six months later, we returned with our closest family and friends for the most magical weekend of our lives. We chose the Royal Package, complete with fireworks, and stayed two unforgettable nights on the property. Every moment felt like a page from a storybook. The hospitality, the attention to detail, the elegance—everything was flawless.

Smithmore Castle isn’t just a venue; it’s an experience. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that truly feels majestic, look no further. This place is the real deal.
Madeleine
Madeleine Sent on 04/07/2025
5 out of 5 rating

A Fairytale Come True at Smithmore Castle

I flew in from New York with 55 of my closest friends and family for a destination wedding at Smithmore Castle—and it was everything I dreamed of and more. The moment we arrived, it felt like we had stepped into a different era. The castle, with its breathtaking views and timeless elegance, reminded me so much of true Victorian etiquette and hospitality.

From the service to the setting, every detail was handled with such grace and care. The team at Smithmore went above and beyond to make our special day unforgettable. Our guests are still raving about the experience—many said it was like being part of a royal affair!

If you’re searching for a venue that feels like a real-life fairytale, steeped in charm and history, look no further. Smithmore Castle is truly a gem, and we are forever grateful for the memories made there.
Alisha Clayton
Alisha C. Sent on 04/07/2025
5 out of 5 rating

More than 5 stars

The venue and staff are outstanding and if I could give them more than 5 starts, I would.
Sienna
Sienna Sent on 04/06/2025
5 out of 5 rating

Smithmore Saved Our Wedding

Our wedding at Smithmore Castle was nothing short of magical! After our original venue in Europe had to close due to a weather emergency, we scrambled to find a new location—and somehow, fate led us to this extraordinary place. Smithmore stepped in last minute and made everything work with grace, warmth, and the kind of charm only a true fairytale setting can offer. The service, the hospitality, the beauty—just wow. No wonder they’re known as America’s only five-star castle hotel. We’re forever grateful!
Amelie
Amelie Sent on 04/06/2025
5 out of 5 rating

If You Love The Crown or Downton Abbey… Just Stop Looking!

Okay, fellow period drama lovers — this one’s for you! I’ve been obsessed with castles, gowns, and grand staircases for as long as I can remember. The Crown, Downton Abbey, Bridgerton — you name it, I’ve watched it. So when it came time to plan my wedding, I knew I needed something extraordinary. Something straight out of a storybook.

Naturally, I did what any bride would do — I Googled “wedding castles in the U.S.” and stumbled across Smithmore Castle. I nearly gasped. The photos alone were breathtaking, but what really caught my eye was the vibe — it didn’t just look regal, it felt authentic… like the kind of place Lady Mary would get married.

After a quick call with the team, I decided to take the leap. And oh my goodness, I’m so glad I did.

From start to finish, Smithmore Castle exceeded every dream I had ever dreamed. The grounds are stunning, the interiors are beyond elegant, and the staff? So professional, kind, and genuinely excited to help bring your vision to life. They didn’t just “host” my wedding — they curated it.

It truly felt like stepping into a period drama… only this time, I got to be the leading lady.

If you’re even thinking about having a castle wedding, let me save you some time: Smithmore Castle isn’t just the best option — it’s the only one. Full stop.
Evie
Evie Sent on 04/06/2025
5 out of 5 rating

A Texas Girl Found Her Fairytale in the Mountains!

As a bride from Texas fixin’ to find the perfect wedding venue, I figured the best way to test the waters was to host a small engagement gathering somewhere magical. Well y’all… Smithmore Castle didn’t just pass the test — it downright swept me off my boots!

From the moment we arrived, it was clear this wasn’t your average venue. The staff? Lord have mercy — polished, gracious, and trained to the nines. Every little detail was thought of before I even had to ask. It was like being transported into a real-life fairytale, but with just the right touch of Southern hospitality to make it feel like home.

Our engagement party had 40 guests, and it was absolutely flawless — intimate, elegant, and bursting with charm. The castle itself is a dream, but it’s the people behind it that make it truly unforgettable.

Let me tell you, I was lookin’ all over the South and beyond for the right spot to say “I do,” but after that evening, I knew: this is it. No more lookin’. We’ll be having our 80-person wedding right here at Smithmore Castle, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Victoria
Victoria Sent on 03/18/2025
5 out of 5 rating

An Unforgettable Engagement Party at Smithmore Castle

We recently hosted our engagement party at Smithmore Castle, and I can honestly say it was one of the most magical experiences of our lives. With 75 guests in attendance, it was the perfect setting—intimate, elegant, and unlike anything else we found in our search for castle venues in the U.S.

When we first started looking for castles on Wedding Wire, we were disappointed to find that most lacked the authenticity we were hoping for. Smithmore Castle, however, is the real deal. From the moment we arrived, we were transported into a world of grandeur and refinement. The architecture, the history, and the sheer attention to detail made it feel as though we were in a European estate rather than the mountains of North Carolina.

What truly set Smithmore apart was the exceptional service—the staff anticipated every need, the ambiance was warm and welcoming, and the level of detail in every element of our event was outstanding. The food was absolutely exquisite, and our guests still can’t stop talking about how incredible the evening was.

We originally considered Smithmore for our wedding as well, but with a guest list of 300, we knew it wouldn’t be possible since the Castle only allows up to 100 guests. If our wedding had been more intimate, I wouldn’t have hesitated for a second—Smithmore is truly in a league of its own.

During my research, I discovered that Smithmore is America’s only 5-star castle hotel, and it absolutely showed in every aspect of our experience. If you are looking for a castle venue that delivers authenticity, luxury, and impeccable service, look no further. I only wish our guest list had been smaller, because I would have loved nothing more than to have my wedding here, too.

I highly, highly recommend Smithmore Castle for any bride looking for a venue that is both breathtaking and unforgettable.
Jennifer
Jennifer Sent on 03/18/2025
5 out of 5 rating

A Fairytale Wedding at Smithmore Castle

I recently had the absolute joy of hosting my destination wedding at Smithmore Castle, and I cannot put into words just how magical the entire experience was. As someone who married into a German family well-versed in the grandeur of European castles, I was initially nervous about whether an American venue could live up to their expectations. Smithmore Castle not only met but exceeded every one of them.

From the moment we arrived, the staff's professionalism, attention to detail, and impeccable etiquette made us feel like royalty. The planning process was seamless, with the team going above and beyond to accommodate our vision, coordinate logistics, and ensure that every detail was executed flawlessly. My husband’s family was in awe—not just of the breathtaking architecture and grounds, but of the level of refinement and hospitality that made them feel as though they had stepped into a stately manor in Bavaria or the Black Forest.

And the food—oh my goodness, the food! Every course was exquisitely prepared, blending gourmet flavors with impeccable presentation, making our reception feel like a Michelin-starred experience. My in-laws, who have dined in some of the finest European establishments, could not stop raving about how exceptional every dish was.

To any bride dreaming of a truly regal, once-in-a-lifetime wedding experience, I cannot recommend Smithmore Castle enough. It is a hidden gem that rivals even the grandest estates in Europe, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have celebrated our love in such an extraordinary place.
Lara
Lara Sent on 03/12/2025
5 out of 5 rating

A Hidden Gem Right in Our Backyard – The Perfect Wedding Venue!

Y’all, I still can’t believe we have Smithmore Castle right here in Western North Carolina! When we started looking for wedding venues, we wanted something elegant, timeless, and unforgettable—Smithmore was all that and more. Being local, I feel so lucky to have had this incredible castle just a short drive away. It was a no-brainer for our wedding, and let me tell you, it was the best decision we ever made.

We had about 60 guests, and 18 of our closest family and friends actually stayed at the castle with us. The whole experience was beyond magical—from the moment we arrived, we were treated like royalty. Every detail was perfect, and I mean every single one. The 3-course dinners and gourmet breakfasts made by their renowned in-house chef were next level. Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how delicious everything was and how they’d never experienced anything quite like it before.

I’ve seen a few castles in the U.S., but let me tell you—this is the real deal. The moment you step onto the estate, you feel like you’ve been transported straight into a European fairytale. The elegance, the hospitality, the sheer beauty of it all—it just doesn’t compare to anything else in America.

If you're lucky enough to be close to Smithmore Castle, do yourself a favor and book it for your wedding. I can’t imagine a more perfect place to say “I do.”
Emma
Emma Sent on 03/12/2025
5 out of 5 rating

Absolutely Magical – The Winter Wonderland Wedding of My Dreams!

I cannot begin to express how incredible our wedding at Smithmore Castle was! We got married in February, and I had always dreamed of a Winter Wonderland wedding, and let me tell you—this venue made it beyond perfect. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the stunning views, the elegant décor, and the fairytale-like atmosphere.

We spent around $23,000, and yet, every detail made it look and feel like a $50,000+ wedding. The level of luxury, attention to detail, and seamless execution was unmatched. The castle itself is breathtaking, and the staff was incredibly professional, attentive, and truly made us feel like royalty.

The food was absolutely incredible—our guests are still raving about it! Every dish was prepared to perfection, and the presentation was just as impressive as the taste. From the cocktail hour to the plated dinner, everything was flawless.

The entire experience at Smithmore Castle was beyond what we ever could have hoped for. If you're looking for a venue that combines elegance, exclusivity, and pure magic, this is it. Best decision we made, hands down!
We're all about trust. Our community relies on honest reviews to help you make those big decisions with ease.

Awards

13
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2026 Winner

Map

Smithmore Castle frequently asked questions

Smithmore Castle includes the following items and services for wedding events in its starting site fee:
  • Bridal Suite
  • Chairs
  • China
  • Clean Up
  • Event Planning
  • Flatware
  • Glassware
  • Linens
  • Parking
  • Set Up
  • Tables
Smithmore Castle includes the following items and services in its wedding catering costs:
  • Cake Cutting
  • Dessert
  • Server(s)
  • Wedding Cake
The bar service starting price at Smithmore Castle includes:
  • Bartender(s)
The space offered by Smithmore Castle for wedding events is known for:
  • Ballroom
  • Banquet Hall
  • Historic Building
  • Hotel
  • Mansion
  • Winery
Smithmore Castle offers the following indoor/outdoor options for weddings:
  • Indoor
  • Uncovered Outdoor
Smithmore Castle offers the following types of wedding events:
  • Ceremony
  • Reception
  • Bridal Shower
  • Engagement Party
  • Elopements
  • Rehearsal Dinner
Smithmore Castle offers the following services for wedding events:
  • Accommodations
  • Bar Services
  • Catering Services
  • Clean Up
  • Event Planner
  • Event Rentals
  • Get Ready Rooms
  • Liability Insurance
  • Outside Vendors
  • Pet Friendly
  • Wifi
Smithmore Castle offers the following furniture and decor items for weddings:
  • Chairs
  • Furniture
  • Tables
Smithmore Castle is recommended by 100% of couples who have used their services. Their overall rating is 5.0, with the same score awarded for quality of service, flexibility, value, professionalism and average response time.
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