Sudeley Castle is Set in the heart
of the Costwolds, The ruins blend beautifully into the west country
countryside. There is little remains of the fortified manor house which was
built in the mid-14th century, this later became the home (and burial place) of
Kartherine Parr, one of Henry VIII’s six wives.
Most of the buildings were restored in Victorian times. Sudeley Castle now
houses a fine art collection. Regarded as one of England’s most romantic
castles Sudley has royal connections spanning a thousand years and has played
an important role in the turbulent and changing times of England’s past.
For many years the castle lay sadly neglected, much of it in ruins, however
Sudeley’s fortunes were to change some 200 years later when it was acquired by
the Dent brothers the famous glove manufacturers from Worcester. They set upon
an ambitious refurbishment programme of restoration. Upon their death this task
was taken up by their nephew John Croucher Dent and his wife, Emma
Brocklehurst.
Sudeley is now home to the Dent-Brocklehurst family, who has extended their
living space with the growth of the family into the East Wing, which was
previously open to visitors. The family is keen that the Castles collection is
still showcased to the public, they have launched a number of exhibition areas
which include Tudor and Victorian artifacts and which also includes a stunning
Textile Exhibition. The Letters from Khartoum exhibition tells the story of
Emma Dents nephew Johnny Brocklehurst, As he trekked across the Sudan desert
and his part in the highly dangerous scheme to smuggle letters. A film based on
unique archives re-creates the historical event and compliments the exhibition.
There are Ten magnificent gardens surrounding Sudeley Castle, each with their
own beauty and charm. The centerpiece is the Queen’s Garden, named after
Katherine Parr and famed for its magnificent collection of old-fashioned roses
and fragrant herbs which are surrounded by yew hedges and superb examples of
topiary. A Knot Garden was created to commemorate a visit by Queen Elizabeth in
1592, the designs are said to have been inspired by the fabric from the Queen’s
dress depicted in a painting which hangs in the Castle.
A Peasantry was established in 2004 and houses a collection of rare and
endangered species.
2008 saw an exciting new programme of Events, including a chocoholic’s weekend,
jousting, ballooning exhibitions, meet the Tudors weekend, Wedding shows,
extreme sport weekend and a fabulous Christmas event. The re-opening of the
adventure playground at Sudeley makes this tourist attraction an ideal location
for family days out and those wishing to explore a piece of English history.
Open March - October
Nearest Train Station: Cheltenham.