Bolsover Castle — Attraction in Bolsover

Loved this place, we have passed it so many times whilst travelling up and down the M1 that we decided to make a special visit, well worth it.

Views - stunning...

Built as a pleasure Castle by the Duke's of Cavendish who lived nearby at Welbeck Abbey (private home).

Claim to fame 'Horse's' - one of the Duke's was the lead for modern dressage, the stables in the grounds are worth a visit.

Opening and Times - according to the season, check their Website.

Accessibility mixed - outside and the grounds are flat as are some ground floors of the various buildings. ~ Stairs to upper floors. ~ The 'Little Castle' has two sets of stairs, one via an 'undercroft' goes all the way to the top. The second to the left of the building (when facing) is floor by floor. ~ Ruins, some levels from the courtyard.

Audio-guide - hmm, difficult to see the screen in the sunlight and we had to work out how to navigate it ourselves. Also the Audio point numbers were not easy to spot. English Heritage, please update!

Carpark (free) - for Disabled and Families at the Castle and nearby (50 yards) in the village. There is a temporary (July 2018) road closure just by the Castle entrance when we visited and so went into the 'exit' of the nearby village car park.

Charge - see their Website for up-to-date Ticket prices. ~ 'Gift Aid' (UK Tax Payers), as a Charity, English Heritage can claim back a % of Tax from the Government

Children - we observed children running about and enjoying exploring the books and crannies. There are events of interest to children and adults alike during holidays and some weekends.Childrens Play Area and Dressing up Box.

Events - see their Website for details ~ Fun events for visitors ~ Corporate events

Exhibition - just right, it was so interesting we read the lot.

Food - Cafe, great, indoor and outdoor seating area. Picnic areas, bring your own food, or purchase from the Cafe.

Groups (11 or over) - special arrangements and discounts for Groups, check their Website for details.

Labelling - signs in some rooms, others on the furniture itself.

Shop - English Heritage

Toilets - part of the Visitors Centre, to the right of the entrance.

Village - looked interesting, but we did not have time to explore.

Weddings - see their Website for...

Bolsover Castle, located in Derbyshire, England, is an extraordinary 17th-century aristocratic retreat. Perched on a ridge high above the Vale of Scarsdale, it stands on the site of a medieval fortress. Let me share some fascinating details about this historical gem:

The Little Castle: This exquisite part of Bolsover Castle boasts remarkable wall paintings and lavishly decorated interiors. Imagine being transported to a lost age of aristocratic extravagance as you explore its rooms. The Little Castle is a testament to Stuart-era opulence.

The Riding House: The Riding House at Bolsover Castle is the earliest such building in England to survive complete. It’s a place where equestrian skills were honed, and the echoes of horse hooves still resonate within its walls.

Terrace Range and Wall Walk: Roam the ruined Terrace Range and take in stunning countryside views from the restored wall walk. The panoramic vista across the Derbyshire Countryside is truly breathtaking.

Interactive Exhibitions: Families will love the interactive exhibition in the stables. Additionally, kids can let their imaginations run wild in the castle-themed play area next to the café.

Don’t Miss:

Marvel at rare wall paintings, amazing carved fireplaces, and replica tapestries in the Little Castle.

Take the multimedia tour to dive deeper into the castle’s history.

Remember, you can book your tickets online to get the best price and guaranteed entry. If you’re a Member, your ticket is still free. Escape the traffic and travel to Bolsover Castle by train, bus, or bicycle to receive a 20% discount on your walk-up ticket.

Plan your visit and step into a fairytale world at Bolsover...

Went for the jousting event. It was good fun, entertaining and interesting. My son loved the longbow. I liked the castle, which is interesting to look about and learn about the Cavendish's that lived there. We went for the day. The first issue was with parking. I appreciate it wasn't the average day, but the car park is a very small area with a hidden sign. We'll it was full so everyone was driving to the next entrance where someone was directing us to go straight and find the extra parking. This is not straight. I don't think he lived there. It was a right, then left turn after morrisons. Essentially, we ended up on a field behind morrisons. 10-minute walk back, this was not so good with a bad ankle. We then had an issue with the cafe. My son eats nothing cold, and bread is a no-no. They only sell sandwiches and cake with hot drinks. Managed to get a sausage roll from the local morrisons (saviour but more walking). There are cafes and a pub nearby, but all were sit-down places, and we just wanted something to grab and go back. The event itself was great. Jousting - I've seen better, but it was good. It's not as entertaining as the Lincoln Castle version. Views are great from the top of the mini castle, and there is lots to explore. It wasn't too full, and we did enjoy the events. Can't say I was thrilled enough for a return trip anytime soon, but it was a good day...