Sudeley Castle & Gardens, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds near the charming market town of Winchcombe, has officially opened its gates for the new season. Known as one of Gloucestershire’s premier visitor destinations, this historic castle once home to Henry VIII’s wife, Katherine Parr, offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and family fun.
Spanning 1,000 acres of picturesque countryside, Sudeley boasts 10 unique gardens that come alive in the spring with vibrant blooms. Among the highlights is the Tudor Physic Garden, reopening for the first time since the pandemic. This garden showcases plants historically used for medicinal purposes during Tudor times, adding an authentic touch to visitors’ experience.
During the castle’s winter closure, the dedicated team meticulously cared for its many treasures, from polishing intricate woodwork to preserving rare library artefacts. This attention to detail ensures that every corner of Sudeley continues to tell the story of its rich heritage.
READ MORE: Amazing Dad, Son, and Brother Remembered in This Week’s Gloucestershire Funeral Notices
This year, Sudeley invites new volunteers to join its welcoming community, playing a vital role in sharing the castle’s history with visitors.
Families visiting over the Easter holidays will enjoy exciting activities, including a golden egg trail through the gardens, culminating in the search for a giant hare and a sweet reward. Additionally, from Easter Friday to Easter Monday, a theatrical Easter show featuring Queen Elizabeth I and her court will delight audiences with humor, drama, and lively Tudor mischief centered around the notorious Winchcombe bakers and their “illicit” hot cross buns.
Spring at Sudeley also means spectacular floral displays. Over 5,000 tulips will bloom across the gardens, accompanied by fragrant hyacinths, bright narcissus, gentle cyclamen, elegant fritillaria, and striking early gladiolus.
From April 23 to May 5, visitors can experience the return of Giffords Circus to Sudeley’s grounds with their newest show, “Waterfield,” blending circus artistry with the castle’s enchanting backdrop.
With its historic exhibitions, beautifully preserved castle rooms, and the chapel housing Katherine Parr’s final resting place, Sudeley Castle remains a must-visit destination this spring.