The Great Castles of OHIO
As I am sure you all know, the State of Ohio is renowned for its castles. So, you can save your money on that big trip to Spain or Scotland to do the castle tours. You can find many great castles right here in Ohio. Furthermore, if you really want to save more money and be a total cheap ass…you do not even need to visit the ones in Ohio. You just need to sit back and enjoy this new reoccurring series from Traveling with PugsleyTonks, entitled….The Great Castles of Ohio.
The ancient Ravenwood Castle (circa 1995)
First, when you are evaluating Ohio castles, the castles really fall into one of 3 categories…
- Modern resorts/hotels modeled after medieval castles
- Old homes/mansions that kind of look like castles
- And, lets call it “true” castles
To kick off our castle series, I give you the Ravenwood Castle. Ravenwood Castle falls into Category #1. And, its my favorite Ohio category #1 castle. This castle was finished in 1995 by a couple that had a true love for the castles of the British Isles. Additionally, this resort gives you lots of options for your lodging. First, you can stay in the castle proper…choosing from such rooms as the “Dukes Dungeon” or “Rapunzel’s Tower.” Secondly, you can stay outside the castle in the nearby medieval village cottages. Each cottage is a separate themed suite, with such themes as “Brewers Cottage” or “Spinsters Cottage.” Lastly, if you want to be a total recluse, you can isolate yourself in the Huntsman Hollow cabins. These cabins are just small (non-themed), rustic cabins out in the woods a bit, away from the castle grounds.
You can stroll through the nearby village 
Or, stay at the Silversmith’s Cottage 
Or, rough it at Huntsman Hollow
Of course, the castle back lawn 
Even, the obligatory hedge maze…we got out!
What can I say about Ravenwood Castle…you can really enjoy the isolation of the resort. Its located in true RURAL Ohio. And beware, the sign directing you up the drive is not huge…so, you need to pay attention. As you go up the one lane, gravel road leading to the the resort…don’t lose faith…just keep going. You will get to the resort. And, your connectivity is about what you would expect. If you are in the castle proper, there is something resembling internet connect. But, the village or remote cabins have no internet, no cable, and very limited cell service…who needs those things. Ravenwood castle is a popular gaming destination. There are over 200 board games available for your use. And, there is a restaurant and a bar…no PBR. Additionally, the area is loaded with state parks with endless hiking trails…including the nearby Moonville Tunnel.
Demonstrating proper Covid gaming techniques in the castle common room 
or a game of chess anyone?
Admittedly, I enjoy all things medieval. And, it goes without saying that we enjoyed our brief Corona escape vacation. There was only one other guest in the whole compound while we were there…and, we never saw them. Ravenwood Castle is truly a Diamond in the Rough. I will make it a point the revisit this place in the future…and you should visit it as well. PT
You can expect other posts in the future from the exciting series…The Great Castles of OHIO.
