Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, Sudeley Castle and Gardens is a much-loved family home as well as a popular visitor attraction with award-winning gardens. The castle has played an important role in England’s history, boasting royal connections that stretch back over 1,000 years. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of past kings and queens including Richard III, Henry VIII, Elizabeth I and Lady Jane Grey.
Inside, the castle contains many fascinating treasures featured in its ‘Royal Sudeley 1000: Trials, Triumphs and Treasures’. The exhibition showcases a collection of artefacts and works of art of great historical importance including Katherine Parr’s love letters, lacework reputedly made by Anne Boleyn, bed hangings made for Marie Antoinette and Charles I’s personal beer jugs.
Photo by Stroud Camera Club
Sudeley Castle’s magnificent gardens are world-renowned, providing variety and colour throughout the seasons. The centrepiece is the Queens Garden, so-named because four of England’s queens – Anne Boleyn, Katherine Parr, Lady Jane Grey and Elizabeth I – once admired the hundreds of varieties of roses found in the garden.
The castle also features a rare-breed pheasantry which houses a collection of 16 rare and endangered species of birds from around the world as part of Sudeley’s programme of breeding and conservation.
The whole family can explore the castle’s fascinating past and enjoy a host of exciting events throughout the year. Children will love a visit to the famed Adventure Playground, voted ‘Best Children’s Playground in Gloucestershire’.
Visitors can refuel with a visit to the Terrace Restaurant, located within the Banqueting Hall to indulge in a locally-sourced, seasonal menu. Pre-book an afternoon tea to complete the perfect Cotswolds day out.
Did you know?
Sudeley Castle is the only private home in England to have a Queen buried within its grounds, Queen Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s last and surviving wife. Visitors can visit her tomb situated within St Mary’s Church in the castle grounds.
