A visit to Thornbury castle is one you’ll never forget. Designed in 1509 for Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham, Thornbury castle was one of the most magnificent building projects of its time. If you’re looking for a unique and indulgent getaway, embellished with hundreds of years of history and an abundance of character and charm, Thornbury castle certainly won’t disappoint.
Make sure you take your glad rags, as you’ll most definitely feel like Royalty as you lounge in the public areas and enjoy an exquisite candlelit dinner in the dining area. Take some good outdoor shoes too, as you can’t visit Thornbury castle without taking a wander around the romantic garden, which also happens to be the earliest Tudor garden in England.
Editor's best bits
Decadence
Lounging in the richly furnished bed chambers and public areas. Admire fine tapestries in the lounge along with renovated antique couches, 20 foot floor to ceiling plush drapes and Tudor style chandeliers. Take a step back through history and view paintings and sketches of Tudor Queens and Princes.
Atmosphere
Listening to blustery winds through the window from inside the warm and cosy Dukes Robe Chamber with its thick stone walls. Some of the walls must be at least four foot thick.
Character
Hunting for the bathroom hidden behind the secret door in the Dukes Robe Chamber. The bathroom door is blended into the wood panelling behind an ornamental cross which doubles up as a door handle.
History
Strolling through the first Tudor garden of England adorned with roses, autumnal reds and orange trees. No matter what time of year you visit, the garden will be perfectly manicured and be vivid with the colour of seasonal flora. Here you get good views of the main castle building as well as the old ruin. Take time to sit and relax on the romantic benches placed intrinsically around the gardens.
Gastronomy
Dining in the intimate dining room is a luxury. Immaculate service is provided from friendly staff and the seasonal menu is adorned with gourmet delights. If visiting in autumn, I recommend ham hock to start followed by pheasant mushroom risotto, the creamiest I’ve ever tasted. Order the chocolate fondue and you’ll have to wait 15 minutes, but it’s certainly worth it. Make sure you try the local house wine grown on the castle grounds.
Relaxation
As soon as you check in to your room, you’ll feel instantly relaxed. A carafe of sherry will be waiting for you and you don’t need to wander far to explore the castle gardens and ruins. Steaming hot water will fill your bath super quick and if you feel like some pampering, a massage therapist is on call to visit you at a reasonable price in your room (approximately £30 for half an hour) and melt away the tensions of everyday life outside of the castle.
