“An opulent castle hotel a stone's throw from Bristol. The regal décor transports guests to the Tudor era, with grand fourposters, ceiling frescos and decadent fabrics. Dine where kings did, in a garden-fed restaurant, and indulge in regal activities. A true escape into the past”

Hotel review

2 hours from London, 12 miles north of Bristol with Wales virtually insight across the Severn Bridge, Thornbury Castle dates from the 16th century when Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here. Much of the original remain: the tower and wings with arrow slits and crenellations, intricate oriel mullioned windows and precarious-looking 1514 brickchimneys. A calming fountain within dreamy arches is centre-stage and beautifully lit at night.

Oak-panelled walls hang historic portraits as well as heavy drapes, swaggers and pelmets. There are brocaded chairs, porcelain vases and everywhere the insignia of coats of arms. Each bedchamber is designed differently with Tudor Classic décor. Heavy wooden doors open onto spacious, theatrical wonder. The exposed stone walls and wooden panelling surround thick opulent carpets, velvet armchairs and majestic four-poster beds.

The dining room is a gourmet’s paradise with vegetables sourced from both the historic kitchen and herb gardens. The lack of a spa, pool or gym is well compensated for by historic pursuits on offer such as falconry, archery and axe throwing. The divine walled gardens have clipped fir trees and are a wonderful retreat. All very regal. Full of romance and history

Adam Jacot de Boinod
Adam Jacot de Boinod Review published: 04/11/2018

Recommended for

  • Active Holiday

    • Dive into Tudor history with falconry, archery and axe throwing, an ideal blend for the spirited adventurer
  • Other Activities

    • Discover the Severn Valley's charm, a tapestry of countryside beauty, just a stone's throw from regal luxury
  • Wildlife Area

    • Engage in falconry, feeling the weight of history on your arm, as majestic birds soar over ancestral lands
  • Historic

    • Step back in time with Henry VIII's haunts, perfect for a historic sojourn amidst opulent Tudor charm
  • Great walks

    • Stroll through lush Tudor gardens, and soak up the past amid clipped fir trees and stately fountains
  • Archery

    • Embrace the thrill of archery, feeling the tension of the bow as arrows fly towards ancient targets
  • Pet friendly

  • Village

  • Child friendly

  • Sights nearby

  • Four poster beds

  • Wedding license

Facilities

  • Rooms

    26 rooms in this hotel
  • Restaurant

    Feast on artful cuisine, a blend of history and modernity, where every bite tells a story of royal banquets
  • Fireplace

  • Wedding license

  • Parking

  • Wifi

  • Four poster beds

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Room service

  • Child friendly

  • Pet friendly

  • Garden

Activities

  • Other Activities

    • Discover the Severn Valley's charm, a tapestry of countryside beauty, just a stone's throw from regal luxury
  • Wildlife Area

    • Engage in falconry, feeling the weight of history on your arm, as majestic birds soar over ancestral lands
  • Great walks

    • Stroll through lush Tudor gardens, and soak up the past amid clipped fir trees and stately fountains
  • Archery

    • Embrace the thrill of archery, feeling the tension of the bow as arrows fly towards ancient targets
  • Sights nearby

Map & Location

See what they say

Why do people love staying in your hotel? The history and quietness, its like stepping back in time.
What is there to do in the area? Book a history tour onsite, Visit the Cotswolds & Bath or Bristol.
What kind of breakfast do you offer? Full English plated Breakfast
Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? We have 3 AA Rosettes and food is a large part of our service. We also have a great afternoon tea experience.
Which are your most popular room types, and why? Castle Suites, you can even stay in the same room as King Henry IIIV and Anne Boleyn
What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? We can fit extra beds and have family rooms, Children can enjoy the gardens, board games and treasure hunt in the grounds.
What message would you like to give The Hotel Guru readers? Come and experience a stay like no other in the only Tudor Castle in the UK that operates as a hotel.

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