Wander picturesque pathways amongst tended topiary and step through gilded rooms adorned with antique treasures and tapestries. With a backdrop of breathtaking rural beauty and an 800-year history, Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire is one of the most enchanting places for timeless adventures. Home to the same family since 1516 and encompassed by 3,000 acres of parklands and sheltered gardens, it promises a wealth of tales for all those seeking to uncover its secrets, as well as verdant swathes for alfresco escapism.
Pursue a novel adventure and flee into your own grand escape with a storybook spell at Grimsthorpe, woven with ancient artworks, blossoming gardens, and traffic-free trails amongst centuries-old oaks.
History
Woven by the hands of time, the history of Grimsthorpe Castle extends back hundreds of years. With origins dating back to the early 13th century, its most significant chapter began in 1516 when it was gifted to William, 11th Lord Willoughby de Eresby, and his Spanish bride, Maria de Salinas, the lady-in-waiting of Katherine of Aragon. Since then, its ownership has remained in the Barony of Willoughby de Eresby.
With a family history spanning more than 500 years, Grimsthorpe Castle is a veritable time capsule, brimming with art collections and antique furnishings from across the centuries. A record of the ages, it provides a fascinating glimpse into bygone eras and the lives of the Willoughby de Eresby family – one of only three families who still retain a hereditary share of the office of Lord Great Chamberlain today.
Castle
An architectural palimpsest, the Grade I listed Grimsthorpe Castle presents a picture of golden-hued splendour curated from distinct Lincolnshire limestone. Illuminated by the arching sun, the castle’s striking southern façade reveals original Tudor design. Meanwhile, to the north, the final masterpiece of renowned architect Sir John Vanbrugh (designer of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard) can be seen in Baroque grandeur.
Mirroring the exterior’s blend of styles, the interiors of Grimsthorpe Castle present an ode to the ages. Open on select days throughout the year, its rooms beckon for exploration and offer an unrivalled glimpse into local and Royal history. Amongst its extensive collection, a plethora of art, sculptures, tapestries, porcelain, and furniture span hundreds of years. Its rooms also feature one of the largest assemblages of royal thrones outside of the Royal Palaces.
Gardens
Nestled amongst extensive parkland, the Grade-I listed gardens of Grimsthorpe Castle are a dream to explore, from the floral kaleidoscope of spring to the auburn hues of autumn. With gardens established within the grounds since Tudor times, the estate’s green spaces have been lovingly tended and evolved over hundreds of years. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the gardens were cut with mowers drawn by horses, whose hooves were adorned with leather slippers designed to protect the grass.
Today, flowing pathways lead to an array of velvety lawns and floral corners. Wander under open skies and uncover topiary squares, the kitchen garden, rose parterres, and pockets of ancient woodland. For a moment of repose, tranquillity can be sought overlooking the 50-acre lake and countryside beyond. For cultural inspiration, the trail to the Walled Garden reveals a contemporary exhibition of memorial art from the Lettering Arts Trust.
Parkland
Blanketing the landscapes in shades of pistachio and jade, the 3,000-acre parkland of Grimsthorpe Castle beckons for halcyon escapes. Encouraging fairytale reveries amongst heavenly scenery, it unravels from the estate’s exquisite gardens towards rural vistas, a glistening lake, Medieval woodland, and tranquil wild spaces. For children, there is also a dedicated Adventure Playground, complete with climbing areas, a zipwire, sea-saws, swings, picnic benches, and more.
Arrive for unhurried escapes around Grimsthorpe Park, embracing the opportunity to walk, jog, or cycle through the grounds. At 5 miles across, there is an abundance of space for leisurely hours, including a 3-mile lakeside and woodland trail and miles of cycleways. Head to the park’s Ticket Hut to scan a map of the grounds and follow signs to uncover the beautiful setting. As you go, keep an eye out for ethereal deer between the trees and regal buzzards in the skies, as well as iridescent dragonflies and dainty butterflies flitting between dappled leaves.
Food and Drink
Promising a delicious offering of food and drink on opening days throughout the year is The March Hare. Residing in the grounds of Grimsthorpe, this lovingly transformed horse box can be found near the castle entrance and offers a mix of seating in both the suntrap courtyard and converted barn. Peruse the menu for a light lunch or afternoon refreshment and relax, or take away a selection of treats to picnic on the lawns.
Should you be seeking the finest local fare, the Farm Shop at Grimsthorpe Castle awaits with a range of seasonal delights. Working with a network of local farmers and suppliers, the shop’s shelves are arranged with a variety of offerings from the locale and beyond. From the estate’s own venison and game and Lincolnshire cheeses to jars of chutneys and bonbons, a tempting array awaits.
Things to Do
For those anticipating wanderlust hours in the spellbinding setting of Grimsthorpe Castle, a wealth of things to see and do awaits. On open days, explore the castle’s rooms and trace trails around the gardens for inquisitive contemplation at your own pace. You can also enjoy a self-guided castle audio tour for an unrivalled way to unveil the castle’s past. For children, the outdoor adventure playground is a magnetic attraction, with multiple sections on which to swing, slide, and climb.
To share treasured alfresco walks with your canine companion, make the most of the dog-friendly pathways that weave throughout the parkland and select garden areas. Or, for two-wheeled adventures, enjoy a relaxed cruise of the estate on your bike, following the miles of multi-purpose trail. Once named “Vallis Dei” (valley of God) by the Cistercian monks of the estate’s old Vaudey Abbey, it promises heavenly scenery as you go, framed by wizened trees and soul-stirring country vistas.
Events
Enjoy a novel twist on an unforgettable trip to Grimsthorpe Castle and combine your visit with one of the many events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Held in the castle grounds and in select rooms, the eclectic social calendar promises something for everyone. Whilst the offering is refreshed each year, particular highlights include Grimsthorpe Castle Car Show (Midlands Italian Car Day), the musical invitation of Jazz in the Gardens and Nene Valley Rock Fest, insightful Heritage Open Days, and the multi-generational seasonal favourite of Grimsthorpe Christmas.
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