Do you want to experience a medieval castle in its original form? Thornbury Castle Hotel in South Gloucestershire is a Tudor castle located near Bristol. It has historical links to Anne Boleyn as well as King Henry VIII.
This article will explore the hotel’s luxurious bedchambers and exclusive dining experiences, created by its Executive Chef. Discover comfort fit for royalty and a royal experience!
Accommodation and Rooms
Thornbury Castle Hotel & Restaurant offers 27 beautifully restored sleeping chambers. Many rooms are equipped with large four-poster-beds and hand-carved fireplaces.
One special room Catherine of Aragon Suite, in the UK, is home to the largest four poster bed. The 77-step spiral staircase adds to the historical ambiance. You can book the Henry VIII SuiteAnne Boleyn and Henry VIII stayed at a hotel in 1535.
There are rooms located on the ground level for guests with mobility issues. Parking, high-speed Internet, and other services are provided at no charge.
All rooms are equipped with a flat screen TV, a minibar, a safe, and brewing facilities for tea and coffee. You’ll also find fluffy bathrobes and slippers, as well as luxurious bathroom amenities. We enjoyed our Mary Tudor BedchamberWith its beautiful oriel windows, and stunning garden views.
Modern bathrooms are equipped with walk-in rainforest showers and Molton Brown toiletries, adding to the luxurious feel. This ensures guests can enjoy the historic charm of the hotel while also enjoying modern conveniences.
The Reception staff will help you with your luggage.
Thornbury Castle: Historical Importance
Edward StaffordThis castle was constructed by the third duke of Buckingham as a show of wealth and power. Construction began in the year 1511 and was stopped abruptly in 1521, when he died for treason.
This castle is a fine example of Tudor architecture with its octagonal towers and original stone walls still standing strong. Its historical splendor is highlighted by features like the intricate Stafford Knot emblem, grand doors, and massive fire places.
Architect Anthony Salvin Victorian touches were added in the 1850s, and can be seen to this day. The castle’s rooms house period furniture and tapestries, adding to the authenticity of a bygone era while providing modern comfort.
One of the finest luxury castles in Great Britain, Thornbury is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. The unique blend of medieval craftsmanship with contemporary amenities makes staying here a journey back in time without leaving behind the luxuries of today’s world.
Dining Experience
Boasting 3AA rosettes, the Thornbury Castle Hotel & Restaurant serves modern British dishes. Ingredients come fresh from the castle’s own kitchen and herb garden. Diners can choose from an à la carte menu or a six-course tasting menu at £95 per person, with vegetarian options available.
Although you are not required wear evening attire, we recommend that you bring a jacket with chinos or a smart top and trousers for men. You are welcome to have cocktails in the double-height drawing rooms before your dinner.
Guests enjoy their meals in one of two wood-panelled dining rooms that add to the occasion’s grandeur. The wood paneling creates a royal dining experience.
You can also find out more about the following: BreakfastChoose from the a-la-carte menu, which includes dishes like Eggs Benedict, Continental Table, or Vegan Breakfast. Vegetarian alternatives are available on the menu to cater for different tastes. The menu is diverse, with vegetarian options available.
Afternoon tea adds an extra touch of elegance, blending seamlessly with the castle’s regal atmosphere. It’s good to book it early because it fills up fast.
Amenities & Activities
The Thornbury Castle Hotel provides free internet and parking, making it a hassle-free stay. With advance notice, guests can reserve a variety of outdoor activities for a fee.
The accommodation is pet friendly, which will be appreciated by those who love pets. There is a fee of £25 per dog, per night and rooms must be booked in advance as not all rooms are suitable.
The hotel offers rooms for guests who are disabled, such as those with mobility problems and need access to the ground floor.
Spend some time in one of the stunning lounge areas. Hotel guests can play board games and browse through the library to find beautiful old books.
Activities on-site
Guests at Thornbury Castle Hotel & Restaurant can enjoy some unique experiences. They are available at a cost (apart for items 5-7), and must be pre-booked.
1. Learn falconry from expert guides. Learn how to safely handle powerful birds of prey.
2. Archery lessons are available on the castle grounds. Aiming and shooting techniques are taught by certified instructors.
3. Axe throwing is a great way to get an adrenaline rush. Enjoy a fun time with professional supervision and safe equipment.
4. Explore the castle’s history with local historians. These tours reveal intriguing secrets from the past.
5. You can take a walk in the kitchen garden. You’ll find that the fresh produce grown here is often used in your dishes.
6. Sloe Gin is made with berries collected around the castle. The hotel offers this as a free in-room gift to its guests.
7. Discover the skep hives that were used during Tudor times in the walled garden. Honey is used as a condiment in the hotel’s restaurant.
8. Dress up as a king or queen and enjoy the festivities Tudor Royalty Experience Lady Samantha gives a history lecture and champagne tea.
9. Thornbury Castle, a popular wedding location in the UK, offers exclusive use packages and more intimate ones. The Tudor Hall is ideal for large celebrations and the Baron’s Sitting Room is a good choice for dinner parties and cocktail receptions.
10. Book on a Murder Mystery Enjoy a fun-filled evening in a unique atmosphere.
The Key Takeaways
- The Catherine of Aragon Suite, with its 10-foot-wide bed, is one of 27 rooms at the Thornbury Castle Hotel.
- Edward Stafford began building the castle around 1511. The Tudor style architecture of this historic property has been enhanced by Victorian touches in the 1850s.
- Guests can enjoy modern British dishes made with ingredients from the castle’s garden. One of the dining options is a six course tasting menu.
- The hotel offers a variety of activities, including falconry, axe-throwing, clay pigeons, history tours, and garden tours. Tudor Queens can be yours for the day.
- The hotel is dog friendly – advance notice is required to ensure that a suitable room is available.
You can also read our conclusion.
Thornbury Castle Hotel & Restaurant offers a glimpse into England’s royal past with modern luxury. Guests can stay in historical rooms, enjoy fine British cuisine and take part in activities such as falconry.
This castle hotel is a great choice for anyone looking for a unique accommodation in Gloucestershire. The rich history of the castle and its excellent amenities will make your stay unforgettable.
