Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds in the pretty village of Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle is a fascinating place to visit with over one thousand years of history. Apart from the castle itself there is a stunning 1,200 acre estate, award-winning gardens, a beautiful chapel, a Pheasantry and an adventure playground for children.
Arriving at the Sudeley Castle, it’s easy to find yourself immediately transported back in time. With a regal castle at the centre of a grand estate and intricately landscaped gardens, Sudeley feels a world away from the modern day. Separated from the nearby market town of Winchcombe by a patchwork of fields, it very much exudes its own energy and stands as a proud reminder of the area’s rich history. And rich it is, spanning over 1,000 years.
Visited and inhabited by some of history’s most notable figures, Sudeley Castle has played an important role throughout history. Among its notable claims, Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, Queen Elizabeth I and Richard III have all traced its paths. It was the home of Catherine Parr, the last and only wife to survive Henry VIII, and was also the base for Richard III during the War of the Roses and was heavily involved in the Civil War.
An authentic time-trap showcasing life throughout the centuries, Sudeley Castle has many fascinating exhibitions and original artefacts on display. See the original 15th Century west wing with its exhibition rooms, the east wing with its family rooms and then South Hall with its sweeping staircase, Dutch painted glass and iconic artwork. Particularly interesting is the Chandos Bedroom, with a four-poster bed said to have been slept in by Charles I.
Outside, there are 10 award-winning gardens which wrap around the castle itself and include the Knot Garden with 1,200 box hedges and the Queen’s Garden where Anne Boleyn and Elizabeth I once walked. Spending time just wandering around the grounds amongst the flowers and ruins is a really lovely way to spend the time, especially when the sun is shining. There is also a Pheasantry, home to one of the biggest collections of rare and endangered pheasants in the world.
There’s a pretty chapel called St Mary’s Church close to the castle within the grounds where Katherine Parr’s tomb lies – the only English queen to be buried on private land. Other things to see here include the visitor centre and shop and the adventure playground if you have little ones with you. There’s a fabulous cafe on a huge terrace too – we recommend a cream tea overlooking the rolling Cotswold countryside if it’s good weather!
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in the Cotswolds here.
Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe GL54 5LP | 01242 604 244 | sudeleycastle.co.uk
