Thornbury Castle is a taste of how the Tudors lived, and they lived very well.
Thornbury Castle is not technically a true castle. This Relais & Chateaux Hotel was built in the 1500s by Edward Stafford as a country house, and then appropriated by a jealous Henry VIII.
As it comes into view, tucked behind the pretty village of Thornbury, it’s a glorious and imposing sight with its fine Tudor windows, ancient stone towers and walls that have stood virtually unchanged over the centuries.
Ducking through arches, glimpsing comfortable lounges with giant fireplaces, and passing the ‘mounting block’ that Henry VIII used to get up onto his horse, you can almost hear the swish of the Tudor ladies’s gowns, and feel the magical atmosphere of a mansion that was built to impress a King.
Who for:
Those looking for a special adult break just a few miles from Bristol and the Severn bridges, with grand rooms and bedrooms, marvellous grounds, unique activities and a fine restaurant that recently retained its well-deserved 3 AA Rosettes.
Accommodation
There are twenty-six bedrooms, one of which once accommodated Henry and Anne. Stone spiral staircases lead to heavy wooden doors that open to reveal four-poster beds, (the 71 square metre Catherine of Aragon Tower Suite has the UK’s largest example) and each has opulent furniture, rich tapestries, heavy curtains, stone walls, wood panelling, smart televisions, Wi Fi and tea and coffee facilities. The modern, but still in keeping, bathrooms have rich towels, cosseting bathrobes, fine toiletries and drench showers,
Our large room was double aspect with leaded glass windows, a massive stone fireplace, an ornate ceiling and a four poster bed set high off the ground. Grand armchairs gave us comfort as we sipped our glasses of complimentary Sloe Gin, whilst also drinking in the unique atmosphere and the kind of stillness that only thick walls can provide.
Facilities
Try your hand at croquet on the lawn for a gentle afternoon’s sport, or take aim with an archery session.There are regular falconry demonstrations too. Walking the walled gardens and extensive grounds are a delight all year round, but try not to get lost in the labyrinth.
In season the castle’s vegetable garden, which helps fuel the restaurant, is well worth a look. Afternoon tea is served inside the castle’s lounges, as well as in the pretty Privy Garden where you can also take drinks all day and into the evening.
The Castle Treatment Room offers contemporary treatments and massage techniques from head, back and shoulder massages, to deep tissue massages, as well as special relaxation and aromatherapy massages. Beauty treatments include manicures, pedicures, waxing and more.
Food & Drink
There are four dining rooms, and even a dungeon for private dining should you feel the need for a frisson. We ate our evening meal like royalty in the circular dining room which has all the Tudor opulent feel, but with food that’s well up to date.
Executive Head Chef, David Williams has recently retained the hotel’s 3 AA Rosettes with tasting menus, as well as a la carte and set menus. Creative and colourful dishes are on offer, with vegetarian options, on a three course menu at £75 per person. There is a bar for the lounges, as well as for the Privy Garden, and my full English breakfast was certainly fit for a King. No wonder Henry needed help up onto his horse. Afternoon tea is a must have.
How much
Bedchamber rates at Thornbury Castle start from £299.
What’s nearby
Thornbury Castle is around a three-hour drive from London and Bristol is the nearest big town, with Bath not too far away. Or cross over the nearby Severn and you’re in Wales with Chepstow and Monmouth to explore just a bit farther on.
VerdictThornbury Castle is a stunning hotel that is a genuine slice of history. Beautiful rooms, gardens and a fine restaurant make this a great weekend break. And with plenty of space for the largest wedding, you couldn’t hope for a more beautiful backdrop for memorable photos.
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