The 500-year-old Thornbury Castle is the country's only Tudor castle hotel and a stunning base for exploring the Cotswolds. Constructed in the early 1500s by the Duke of Buckingham, it has hosted such prestigious guests as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and Mary I, and keeps modern-day guests occupied with regal pastimes like falconry, archery, fishing and croquet.
Much of the castle dates back to the 16th century and retains period features such as large open fireplaces, ornate carved ceilings, intricate oriel windows and shining suits of armour in the corridors.
Alongside lording it up in the castle's expansive walled gardens, you can depart from medieval times and retreat to the nearby Vicarage Farm holistic therapy centre for a little relaxation, or tuck into delectable dishes and afternoon tea at the restaurant.
Thornbury Castle carries a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence under its princely belt.
Historical Note book
The manor of Thornbury dates back to the 10th century and the time of the Domesday Book. In a disastrous ancient love triangle, Brictric – one of the manor’s earliest recorded owners – lost possession when he spurned the advances of Matilda of Flanders. Matilda later married William the Conqueror, who seized Thornbury, awarded it to his Queen and imprisoned her one time love.
Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, built the castle during the reign of Henry VIII, though he wasn’t able to enjoy it for long. After being betrayed to the king by a disgruntled servant, Stafford was arrested for high treason and executed on Tower Hill. Henry claimed the castle for himself, spending ten days here while on his honeymoon tour with Anne Boleyn. It remained royal property until the death of his daughter Mary I, when it was returned to the Duke’s descendants.
For two centuries, the castle was unoccupied, falling into ruin. In the 1850s, it was saved and turned into a family home. Its more recent occupants have included the Howards, the Clifford family, Kenneth Bell MBE and the Baron and Baroness of Portlethen.
For bookings try
Secret escapes
Booking.com
Thornbury Castle Website
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