Thornbury Castle, Thornbury, England Vacation Rental

Thornbury Castle is a beautiful 16th century building, which was once owned by Henry VIII and stands in 15 acres of regal splendour, surrounded by Tudor Walled Gardens. It nestles on the northern edge of Thornbury adjacent to the Gloucestershire countryside, 12 miles north of Bristol, and is well placed for visiting the Cotswolds, the Georgian city of Bath, Bristol and Wales. Following a multi-million pound refurbishment program, guests will experience a luxurious and sophisticated castle hotel stay, with reference to the history and traditions of Thornbury’s most famous owner; King Henry VIII.

Thornbury Castle has 26 carefully-restored bedchambers, all named after key figures from Tudor history. Many with sumptuous four-poster beds and splendid stone-carved fireplaces, making your stay just that little bit more special. The "Catherine of Aragon Tower Suite" boasts the largest bed in a hotel in the UK - 10 feet wide. The restaurant at Thornbury Castle offers plenty of modern, British inspired dishes, as well as some traditional favorites. All dishes on the dinner menu use only the finest and freshest ingredients, many grown in the castle's kitchen garden and herb garden. Afternoon Teas taken in splendid surroundings at Thornbury Castle are the ultimate treat for all guests. The recipient of many prestigious awards for its fine food, Thornbury Castle has three dining rooms, each baronial in style, with stunning chandeliers, paneled walls, heraldic shields and open fires.

In house dining is wonderful, join us for breakfast, dinner or Sunday lunch in one of our four dining rooms and you’ll find yourself indulging in a dazzling experience with a heritage befitting of its storied surroundings – one that encompasses seventies extravagance courtesy of regular past guests including Sophia Loren and Laurence Olivier. Today, our talented team is led by Executive Chef, Carl Cleghorn, and Food & Beverage Manager, Frederic Bellard, who both have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and are proud to offer our guests a wide range of delicious and impressive menus to suit all occasions.

At the Castle you will experience the most extravagant of afternoon treats, our Full Afternoon Tea and Champagne Afternoon Teas can be taken in either our dining rooms or in our lounge areas. Or for Private Dining, for special occasions, the distinctive architecture of the castle provides a number of rooms of various sizes and for various styles of function.

Experiences at the Castle:

Longbow Archery - After mastering the fundamentals of becoming an archer, with instruction on shooting a longbow from our Archery GB instructor, guests will be given the chance to participate in Tudor pastimes to see if they are able to match up to the archers of the period, while absorbing the history of Thornbury Castle and Tudor England's famous longbows.

Axe Throwing - Accompanied by our qualified marshals, guests have the chance to throw hatchets and angels at a target, in a safe environment within the picturesque grounds of the Castle. Need more of a Challenge? Our marshals will challenge guests to a ‘Throw-Off ’ – who can score the most points?

Thornbury Castle History Tours

Built in the 1500s, Thornbury Castle has housed kings, queens and dukes over the centuries and we are so pleased to offer the opportunity of a guided Historical Tour of both the inside and outside of the Castle with a local historian. The tour starts with our local historian weaving a detailed history of the Castle and the people who have owned or lived here. After, they accompany guests around the interior areas detailing different features which can be seen, but not necessarily noticed. The tour then ends outside where the fascinating architecture is discussed.

Falconry - Professional Falconer, Michael Davie, is able to offer a once in a life-time chance to experience some magnificent birds of prey up close against the backdrop of a Tudor Castle. The wonderous, hands-on demonstrations with these birds of prey are accompanied by an excellent commentary that is entertaining, educational and informative.

Check-in: 4:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

Children over 8 are welcome

Children 18 and above are considered adults at this property

Pets are allowed on request

No smoking

Wedding Allowed (on request for pricing)

Rates vary depending on time of year

High season and holiday rates are higher

3 to 7 night minimum (based on season and arrival date)

Can be rented per room

Taxes/fees additional

Refundable damage deposit required

50% down to book

Balance due 60 days prior

Please bring proof of identification

Trip cancellation insurance recommended

All bookings are final

Rates and fees subject to change without notice