Thornbury Castle

Experience the allure of Tudor England at Thornbury Castle, gracefully perched on the edge of Gloucestershire's Cotswolds. Boasting 27 beautifully appointed bedrooms, a majestic Tudor hall with original features, a serene walled garden, and a fine dining restaurant, Thornbury Castle invites you to step back in time and indulge in medieval splendour. Conveniently located within easy reach of Bristol and London, Thornbury Castle serves as an enchanting venue for events of every kind. Nestled within expansive grounds, the castle offers the perfect setting for a diverse array of activities, including immersive team-building adventures, corporate summer retreats, BBQ parties, and exclusive castle takeovers. Discover the magic of Thornbury Castle, where history, luxury, and hospitality intertwine to create unforgettable memories.

Formerly the country retreat of King Henry VIII, Thornbury Castle boasts a history unmatched by most English hotels. Situated on the edge of The Cotswolds, its architectural grandeur is evident upon arrival, making it the perfect venue for impactful events. The splendour of the battlements, towering Tudor chimneys, and ornate decor are complemented by luxurious 5-star interiors.

The castle's 26 bedrooms each offer unique features, including four-poster beds, velvet drapes, open fires, and original period windows. Some of its most revered suites, including one once occupied by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, can only be accessed via a spiralling stone staircase, providing a truly unique experience.

The castle offers both indoor and outdoor event spaces of various sizes. The Baron’s Sitting Room is an intimate retreat that includes the use of the private Chancellor’s Lounge. Both spaces offer views of the grounds and feature plenty of natural daylight. For larger meetings or dinners, the singular majesty of the grand Tudor Hall adds a uniquely special touch. Set within 15 acres of gardens and parkland, Thornbury Castle is also the perfect place for team-building activities, including Archery, Falcony, Axe Throwing and garden games. Ideal for a car or product launch, the castle has a magnificent drive and curved courtyard at the castle's interior where cars or products can be displayed.

Groups can enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in one of the castle's four dining rooms. For something entirely unique, the atmospheric dungeon room is perfect for intimate or themed gatherings. Known for its exquisite hospitality, Thornbury Castle offers meticulously prepared dishes crafted from kitchen garden produce, complemented by a selection of exclusive vintage wines curated by world-class sommeliers.

Weddings at the castle are truly spectacular, with fairytale photo opportunities against the battlements, champagne receptions in the gardens, and candlelit banquets in the Tudor Hall. Whether seeking an exclusive castle takeover or a more intimate celebration, Thornbury Castle offers customisable wedding packages to suit every dream.

This hidden retreat seamlessly blends 500-year-old architecture with luxurious facilities, making it an ideal venue for away days or incentive trips. Attendees will delight in uncovering the castle's secrets and exploring its extensive grounds, making Thornbury Castle's event spaces among Britain's finest.

Thornbury Castle was originally conceived and constructed by Edward Stafford, the then Duke of Buckingham, he was the second wealthiest man in the country and wanted a home to rival that of King Henry VIII. In 1510, he was granted permission to transform his former manor house into a magnificent, fortified country home. The castle stands as a grand monument to Stafford’s personality: battle-ready medieval ruggedness in harmony with the most palatial Tudor fineries of the day. Edward Stafford, however, was never able to fully revel in the fruits of the years-long construction; in its exquisite oriel windows, or stunning red brick chimneys. As the final elements were being put in place, in 1521, the Duke was summoned to London to stand trial. As a descendant of King Edward III, he was perceived as a threat to the Tudor dynasty. After making several provocative actions and statements against the crown, Stafford was beheaded on Tower Hill after being found guilty of treason.

On royal progress in 1535, Henry VIII stayed at the castle with his second queen, Anne Boleyn. A plague in Bristol extended their stay, establishing the castle as a luxurious retreat from the travails of the outside world that still rings true today.

The castle remained a crown property until 1554, when Queen Mary I returned it to the Stafford family. Mary, who had stayed at Thornbury Castle numerous times as a child, did so as a show of gratitude for the support that the castle’s original custodians had shown her mother, Catherine of Aragon. From that point on the fortunes of the castle would wax and wane, in line with the fortunes of the aristocracy responsible for it. It stands today as the finest castle of its kind in the country.