A stay at the stylish Thornbury castle takes you back in time. You'll feel like the Tudor elites, but with the edge of modern-day, high-end hospitality. This impressive castle was built in 1510 by Edward Stafford, the third Duke of Buckingham with a special license from King Henry VIII. The story goes that Stafford had grand designs, not only for the castle but to rival the king, eventually leading to his execution. His emblem, the Stafford knot however, lives on and can be seen throughout the castle as well as the serene knot garden. History lovers or those who like to delve into a property's past can book a tour with historian and author of 'Thornbury Castle Revisited', Tony Cherry, making a stay even more special.
It can be a nice surprise to meet a macaw, one of the tame animals in nearby Old Down Country Park - both colourful in character and appearance.
The charming market town of Thornbury is only a 10-minute walk away.
By car: around 1 hour 30 mins from Birmingham, 3 hours 10 mins from Manchester and 2 hours 45 mins from London. There is free parking on-site.
By train: London Paddington to Bristol Parkway takes 1 hour 23 mins. The hotel is a 20-minute taxi ride from the station. thetrainline.com
Thornbury Castle is perfect for a romantic getaway, as much as a pampering for those who like to travel solo. The intricate geometric oriel windows are mesmerising, creating a bay window inside the lounge, where historically private conversations would have taken place.
Staff are particularly perky and upbeat. Their sunny disposition doesn't go unnoticed.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking on site
- Pet-friendly
The Catherine of Aragon Tower Suite with its centrepiece plush blue velvet and silky gold upholstered four poster bed is something everyone should experience. It is really something to be able to say, "I've stayed in the largest four-poster bed in any UK hotel" and you can too, if you book into the fabulous Catherine of Aragon Tower Suite.
Deluxe, Superior Deluxe room, Suite, Deluxe, Jen Seymour, Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon Tower suites
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with shower, luxury toiletries, tea and coffee-making facilities
The staff are impeccable as they usher you from the gorgeous wood-panelled lounge for canapés to the main restaurant. You'll never forget the braised short rib stuffed roscoff onion; melt-worthy and delicious
Restaurant: two AA Rosettes. Formal fine dining, modern British cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A la carte menu £62
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