Thornbury Castle is a five-star deluxe Relais and Chateau Tudor Castle, located in the South Gloucestershire countryside, which began construction in 1511. Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, it is also close to the historic cities of Bristol and Bath.
It was once owned by King Henry VIII, but before that it was the residence of Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, the only man who could rival the wealth of King Henry VIII of the time. He made it his main residence and lived there until his death in 1521.
Despite its age, Thornbury Castle retains many original features, including arrow-lit windows and walled gardens. The castle is located on 15 acres of land, including gardens and surrounding grounds, offering stunning views and walks. The 1511 inner gateway is decorated with symbols of Stafford Knott and Duke's royal ancestors. These features made my stay very special and I stayed like I had gone back in time.
There are three AA rosettes, titles awarded to outstanding restaurants, and four red stars for the quality of the dining room service. Despite the distance, the guests are not lacking in doing anything. There are also on-site facilities for crockett, creepign shooting and falconry.
room
The castle has 26 carefully restored bed chambers, each one as unique as the history it was built. They are located in different areas of the castle, depending on the room you choose.
The deluxe chamber is beautifully decorated in traditional style with iconic period details and luxurious bathrooms for an iconic and unforgettable stay.
The excellent deluxe features a wealth of period detailing and the most luxurious comforts, including Thornbury Castle Slozin decanters, walk-in showers, coffee and tea amenities, and luxurious bathroom amenities.
Thornbury's Castle Suites is designed to make your stay even more memorable, with a 4-post bed, a roll-top bath, and most have separate walk-in showers. They are spacious and distinctive and also offer a relaxing area for comfort.
There is also the Henry VII Family Suite, the Jane Seymore Suite on the main tower of the Spiral Staircase, the Henry VIII Suite, where the King himself stayed with Ambolin in 1535, the Catherine of Aragon Tower Suite, and other suites located at 77 Steps. At the top, a luxurious suite awaits you, featuring Tudor furniture, silk wall hangings and four poster beds, the largest in a British hotel.
I stayed in Queen Mary I Room. This room was full of times, comfortable furniture and large bathrooms with Molton Brown toiletries. It was equipped with a bed of four posters, a decanter of Slozin at Thornbury Castle, coffee and tea making facilities, a minibar, safety and a large television. The rooms are unable to break down, with views from the Oriel windows with a walled garden, and the large seating area relaxing.
The hotel even offered turndown services, so towels were refilled at dinner, duvets fell down and ready to fall asleep.
The castle has plenty of packages and deals, including spring escapes and romantic weekend stays that will help guests save on a massive scale.
Thornbury Castle Food
There are three AA Rosettes, and the Thornbury Castle restaurant sources the best local produce and grows its own vegetables and its home gardens.
It's easy to see why this restaurant is loved. The dining area was postponed in a charming lounge space just off the reception, with drinks in front of the seating and we ordered dinner options.
The restaurant has a large open fireplace, traditional wooden panels and comfortable chairs. This is a great setting for dinner and definitely a highlight of my stay.
The attention to detail was incredible. The waiter and waitress remembered who ordered what dish and so they were placed in front of you without any reminders.
A special touch has been added to the dining experience, including home appetizers and homemade breads with butter.
First of all, options included mushroom belute, trekcle cured salmon, brisket, fore royal terrine, and tomato brusta. Mains included Pomme Puere, clams, mussels, shrimp, carrots and beef cheeks with forerowyal, pork and apples with lettuce and caramel apples, and cauliflower risotto.
Guests are not a pudding option either. There is a selection of green apple cheesecake, chocolate fondant, pineapple with sorbet and cheese. The food was absolutely delicious and the service was prompt, but not in a hurry. The staff were very attentive.
If you're celebrating something special, there's a 6 course tasting menu for £95 per person.
Breakfast is in the same dining room as dinner, and the menu offers many options, including both continental and hot options. I chose the pancakes served with maple syrup and fruit compote and fruit salad, but they were unable to break down.
The breakfast and dinner service is impeccable and the staff really feel special and make you feel welcoming.
The castle also offers “Tudor Royalty Experience” champagne afternoon tea. These include spending an afternoon dressed in replica Tudor gowns and costumes, relaxing walks around the property with a short history talk, and Full Sarnberry Castle Afternoon Tea with a glass of champagne.
Final Thoughts
My stay at Thornbury Castle is definitely unique and should be experienced at least once by everyone. The staff were welcoming. The food was tasty and the room was fantastic. It's easy to see why this hotel is busy all year round, but I didn't feel it was crowded.
We highly recommend checking out the castle for stays, dinners, afternoon tea and more. This place is suitable for those who want to enjoy the nearby area.
Prices vary depending on the season, day of the week and room type. Click here to book a stay at Thornbury Castle. To book through Booking.com, click here.
