The Castle RollsA survey of every visitable castle in the United Kingdom
4.6 / 5 · 1,255 reports HOTEL GUESTS ONLY

Thornbury Castle

Gloucestershire, England


Thornbury Castle
Thornbury Castle, further view Thornbury Castle, further view

Key facts

Operator
Thornbury Castle Hotel
Condition
Intact
Access
Hotel guests only
Stays
Overnight accommodation available

Pinpoint

Castle St, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 1HH

Telephone 01454 281182

Website www.thornburycastle.co.uk

Possible Opening hours

Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.

Monday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Tuesday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Wednesday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Thursday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM

A genuine Tudor castle — built in the early 16th century for the Duke of Buckingham — now operating as a hotel, with the option to book dinner or afternoon tea even if you're not staying the night. It's an unusual way to experience a castle: sleeping in it, rather than filing through it.

Worth the trip

Staying overnight in an actual Tudor castle room, complete with the history talk reviewers say the staff and tour guides deliver as part of the experience.

Before you go

Non-residents can book afternoon tea or dinner without a room, which reviewers say is worth it despite the price; if you want the history element, ask about the tour guide rather than assuming it's automatic.

WHAT VISITORS SAY · 4.6 / 5 across 1,255 Google reviews

Recent reviewers consistently describe outstanding overnight stays at what is now a hotel, repeatedly praising attentive, memorable staff service, spacious historic rooms, and strong breakfasts — with several enjoying the novelty of dressing in Tudor-style attire. A couple of practical notes recur: there are many stairs and no lift to the rooms, and the afternoon tea, while good, is considered a little pricey for the portions.

Tudor castle hotel; dining open to non-residents

“The staff here were great. Room was extremely spacious. The bathroom suite was amazing. The whole experience was lovely. Our tour guide was great - highly recommend to learn more about the history of the castle. Special…”— Bennett, visitor review

Further reading

book
Windsor Castle: A Thousand Years of a Royal Palace

Steven Brindle

Find it on Amazon
book
The Boleyns of Hever Castle

Owen Emmerson & Claire Ridgway

Find it on Amazon
The Six Wives of Henry VIII cover book
The Six Wives of Henry VIII

Alison Weir

Find it on Amazon