If you enjoy the romanticism of the Middle Ages, but not its discomforts, Banwell Castle is the perfect place. It is a Victorian replacement for a medieval castle. The original castle was the stronghold of the Bishops of Bath and Wells. Even men of God needed protection in uncertain times. The Victorian castle made a splendid country house, built around 1848 for John Dyer Sympson. Now the castle offers bed and breakfast, and there is a restaurant in the gatehouse.