VISIT  BOLSOVER  CASTLE  WITH ENGLISH  HERITAGE  MEMBERSHIP

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TICKETS & PRICES

Adults: £12.70
Children 5-17 Years: £7.70
Families (2 adults, up to 3 Children): £33.10
Families (1 adult, up to 3 Children): £20.40

Quick Navigation

  1. Visiting Bolsover Castle
  2. History of Bolsover Castle
  3. Bolsover Castle Images
  4. Bolsover Castle Occupants
  5. Bolsover Castle Q&A & Facts
  6. Bolsover Castle Location / Directions
  7. Places too Stay
  8. Bolsover Castle Events
  9. Bolsover Castle Architecture
  10. What to do and see at Bolsover Castle
  11. Other Places to Visit near Bolsover Castle

Visiting Bolsover Castle

Bolsover Castle boasts a 17th-century manor, keep, and riding house, and sits in the county of Derbyshire. This grand castle has remained in the Cavendish family for centuries. Today, visitors can explore the grounds and elaborate structures by purchasing a ticket through English Heritage.

Parking

Free parking is available on-site to English Heritage members and non-members. There are also free car parks located within the town of Bolsover, including:

  • Castle Street Car Park
  • Middle Street Car Park
  • Town End Car Park

Disabled parking is situated within 50 metres (164 ft) of the castle entrance. Alternatively, visitors using mobile scooters or wheelchairs, or those with limited mobility may be dropped off at the entrance of the Bolsover Castle visitor centre.

 

Price

Bolsover Castle ticket prices vary depending on the season and date. Peak days (weekends and bank holidays) tend to be more expensive than Standard and Off-Peak days. For exact pricing on the date of your visit, view the Bolsover Castle calendar on the English Heritage website.

Visitors who purchase tickets online in advance (up to 8:45 a.m. on the day of their visit) are eligible for an advance-booking discount of 10 percent off. Tickets purchased on-site do not qualify for this discount.

The table below gives you an idea of Bolsover Castle prices on a Peak Day in June (with the advance-booking discount included):

Bolsover Castle Ticket Prices - June - Peak Day

Ticket Type

With Donation

Without Donation

Members

Free

Free

Adult

£14.00

£12.70

Child (5-17 Years)

£8.50

£7.70

Student (with Valid ID)

£12.50

£11.30

Family (2 Adults, Up to 3 Children)

£36.50

£33.10

Family (1 Adult, Up to 3 Children)

£22.50

£20.40

Senior (65+)

£12.50

£11.30

 

Opening

Bolsover Castle is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Opening and closing times may vary depending on the season, date, and whether there is an on-site event taking place.

Like most English Heritage sites, Bolsover Castle is busiest between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Bank holidays and weekends are the busiest days.

To avoid the crowd, it’s best to visit before 11 a.m. or after 2 p.m. on an Off-Peak day.

Location and Access

The physical address of Bolsover Castle is:

Castle Street

Bolsover

Derbyshire

S44 6PR

Bolsover Castle is situated 9.7 kilometres (6 mi) east of Chesterfield. Visitors arriving from the east can access the town of Bolsover using A632, then follow the signage to the site. Those arriving from M1 should exit at 29A.

The closest train access is via Chesterfield Railway Station, approximately 9.7 kilometres (6 mi) from Bolsover Castle. You’ll need to use a bus service to access the site after exiting the train.

Bus services are available from Chesterfield, Mansfield, and Sheffield. Those services include the following (and all pass near the Bolsover Castle entrance):

  • Stagecoach: 1, 1A, 53, 53A
  • Hulleys: 49
  • TM Travel Service: 81

Know Before You Go

  • There are various food options available in the on-site café. Visitors may choose from a variety of hot or cold meals, as well as sandwiches, soups, cakes, and a vegetarian option. At your request, sandwiches can be made to order to accommodate some dietary restrictions. The Bolsover Castle visitor centre has ice cream, sweets, and candies available for purchase.

  • Picnics are welcome. There is a large, grassy area dedicated to picnicking. This section of the grounds offers lovely views of the Riding House. You can bring your own blanket or use the on-site picnic tables.


  • The gift shop offers a variety of items. Here, patrons can pick up English Heritage gifts, wine, jam, toys, books, and themed souvenirs.

  • Accessible toilets are available on-site. The accessible toilets are found in the Bolsover Castle visitor centre, adjacent to the Riding House. Baby-changing facilities are available within the bathroom.

  • Dogs are permitted on the castle grounds. They are not permitted in the Little Castle or the Cavalier Horsemanship displays. All dogs must be leashed at all times.

  • Some areas are wheelchair accessible. The site grounds are accessible via gravel pathways. Terrace Range, Venus Garden, and certain areas of the Riding House and stables are accessible to wheelchair or mobility scooter users. Keep in mind, however, that disabled access to the Riding House and the Terrace Range varies depending on the season. The Little Castle is not accessible; it requires over 100 steps to the top.

  • Watch out for mobility hazards. Rabbits are in abundance on the Bolsover Castle grounds, so visitors should look out for rabbit holes. Additionally, some areas of the site may be slippery when wet, including stone steps and grass. Many of the buildings’ stairwells have narrow, uneven steps.



Bolsover Castle Events

Numerous events take place at Bolsover Castle throughout the year. Past events have included knight tournaments, educational activities for families, live music, jousting, and holiday celebrations. For a full list of current and upcoming events, check out the Bolsover Castle events page on the English Heritage website.

Bolsover Castle Tours

Expert tour guides are available to host group visits to Bolsover Castle. A guide will escort the group throughout the castle grounds and palace buildings, while describing the history of the grounds. Guests will explore various buildings and rooms and enjoy spectacular views.

Tours are approximately 90 minutes long, and require a group of at least 15 to book. The price is the standard admissions fee for the day, plus £4 per person.

To book a tour, you must make arrangements at least two weeks in advance.

Places To Stay Nearby

Twin Oaks Hotel

5.6 km (3.5 mi) south

Twin Oaks Hotel offers outstanding views of Derbyshire and Bolsover Castle. This quaint location features several charming cottages that offer guests a rural, cosy vibe. On-site, guests can find free parking, an on-site restaurant, a bar, a beer garden, and a picturesque water fountain. Rooms include free WiFi and family rooms are available.

Book

Premier Inn Chesterfield North

11.7 km (7.3 mi) northwest

Located near various transportation routes in the Peak District, Premier Inn Chesterfield North offers double, twin, family, and accessible rooms. Each room includes a hairdryer, vanity space, free WiFi, and tea and coffee facilities. The on-site “Brewers Fayre” restaurant boasts multiple breakfast and dinner options, as well as the opportunity to purchase a meal deal for discounts on food during your stay.

Book

Travelodge Chesterfield

12 km (7.5 mi) west

Situated near the centre of Chesterfield, Travelodge Chesterfield is within walking and driving distance of various theatres, museums, art galleries, and restaurants. Standard, family, and accessible rooms are available. Guests can enjoy free on-site parking (first come, first serve) and WiFi access (free for 30 minutes or £3.00 for 24 hours). 

Book

History of Bolsover Castle 

Bolsover Castle is a 17th-century castle featuring a country manor, keep, and several other buildings, including England’s oldest riding house. The castle was built on the remains of an 11th and 12th-century castle, and has been in the Cavendish family for centuries.

Time Line

- 1068 (New Castle)

A motte-and-bailey castle was erected on the site by the Peverel family.

- 1155 (Castle Forfeited)

Upon his death, William Peveril the Younger’s properties were surrendered to the Crown. The Earls of Derby (the Ferrers) claimed the property rightfully belonged to them.

- 1199 (William de Ferrers Receives Lordship)

During King John’s reign, William de Ferrers once again claimed the castle belonged to the Ferrers. He paid King John for the lordship of the Peak, but the Crown did not give up ownership of Bolsover Castle. 

- 1216 (Castle Besieged)

King John wouldn’t agree to the Magna Carta, so the First Barons’ War broke out and Bolsover Castle was besieged. John gave ownership to the Ferrers, but the governor of the castle refused to vacate the property. Ferrers was granted permission to use force to evict him. The next year, the Ferrers would take over the property.

- 1223 (Castle Repairs)

Damage to the castle was repaired when the Crown regained control of the castle. Over the next two decades, mediaeval additions were constructed, including four towers, a kitchen, and a barn. The keep and curtain wall were rebuilt.

- 1290 (Farmer Ownership)

The Crown granted use of the castle and the manor to farmers to use for their animals and growing crops.

- 1322 (Castle Abandoned)

Bolsover Castle fell into disrepair when the garrison abandoned their post.

- 1553 (New Ownership)

Francis Talbot, 5th Earl of Shrewsbury, receives the castle from King Edward VI.

- 1590 (Cavendish Family Takes Over)

Gilbert, 7th Earl of Shrewsbury, inherits the castle and sells the grounds to Sir Charles Cavendish.

- 1600 (Cavendish Builds)

Charles Cavendish, son of Bess of Hardwick, transforms the castle into his primary home.

- 1611-1617 (Little Castle Built)

Charles Cavendish commissions the building of the Little Castle.

- 1618-1633 (Castle Renovations)

Upon Charles Cavendish’s death, his son William continues building and renovating the castle. He finishes the lodge and redesigns the manor, adding apartments, a Great Gallery, and an elaborate hall.

- 1634 (Royalty Visits)

Charles I and his wife, Henrietta Maria, visit Bolsover Castle and are entertained in the Terrace Range.

- 1640-1644 (Civil War)

William Cavendish loses the Battle of Marston Moor and leaves the country.

-  1649 (Bolsover Slighted)

Parliamentarians sieged the castle and ordered its slighting.

- 1650 (William Returns)

William Cavendish returns from exile. He purchases back his estates and grants Bolsover Castle to his children.

- 1665 (Castle Repairs)

Multiple repairs are made to the castle, including a new hall and various state rooms within the Terrace Range.

- 1676 (Castle Restored)

William Cavendish dies. From 1665 until his death, multiple repairs were made to the castle, and additions were added, including a new hall and state rooms in the Terrace Range. Upon his death, the castle had been fully restored.

- 1770s (Terrance Range Ruined)

The roof of the Terrace Range is removed and the area officially becomes a ruin.

- 1833 (Alterations)

John Hamilton Gray inherited the castle through marriage. He carried out additional repairs to the Little Castle, and resided on-site to care for the property.

- 1883 (No Longer a Private Residence)

The castle no longer had any residents after 1883.

- Early 20th Century (Castle Transformed)

The Riding House is transformed into a theatre. The courtyard becomes an area for playing various sports.

- 1920s-1930s (Castle Damaged)

As the earth beneath the castle began to settle, various cracks began to form in the castle. It was damaged further due to pollution.

- 1945 (Ministry of Works Takes Over)

The Ministry of Works begins managing the site and carries out several repairs. The site was opened to the public after its stabilisation.

- 2007 (Television Appearance)

Most Haunted Live!, a TV show, visits Bolsover Castle to film a Halloween episode investigating paranormal activity on the site.

- Present (English Heritage Site)

Today, Bolsover Castle is in the care of English Heritage. It is open to the public as a tourist attraction.

Bolsover Castle Occupants

 

  • 1068: William the Conqueror grants the castle to William Peverel.
  • 1114: William Peveril the Younger inherits the castle after his father’s death.
  • 1216: Brian de Lisle, governor of the castle, refuses to leave when William de Ferrers is granted ownership of Bolsover Castle.
  • 1217: William de Ferrers takes over.
  • 1223: Local farmers begin using the castle and its grounds for agricultural purposes.
  • 1553: Francis Talbot, 5th Earl of Shrewsbury, becomes owner of Bolsover Castle.
  • 1590: Sir Charles Cavendish purchases the castle.
  • 1618: William Cavendish inherits the castle.
  • 1634: Charles I and Herietta Maria visit Bolsover Castle.
  • 1650: William Cavendish repurchases the castle after it is taken over by Parliamentarian forces and slighted.
  • 1833: John Hamilton Gray and his family stay at the castle site.

Bolsover Castle Architecture

General Layout

Bolsover Castle is an architectural blend of a large, 17th-century, Norman-inspired keep, country manor, and riding school. The structure sits atop a headland overlooking the village of Bolsover.

Original Layout

During the 11th century, the site of Bolsover Castle was the site of a motte-and-bailey castle. By the 12th century, a new keep castle was erected on the same site, following much of the original castle’s layout.

By the 17th century, the grounds were transformed into their current state, including a large country house and keep (Little Castle). These structures were built over the site of the original mediaeval castle.

The castle is surrounded by thick stone walls, probably built around the 13th century. However, much of the masonry and detail-work was updated in the 17th century when the manor and Little Castle were built. In addition to these structures, there were originally four water houses located just outside of the perimeter of the castle walls.

Inner and Outer Bailey

The 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle had a large round bailey, measuring 280 metres by 200 metres (919 ft x 656 ft). The inner bailey sat at the northernmost end of the castle grounds, at the top of the headland. It was smaller than the outer bailey, measuring approximately 80 metres by 60 metres (262 ft x 197 ft).

The outer bailey held the stables, workshops, and lodgings, Terrace Range, and Riding House, whereas the Little Castle sits in the inner bailey.

Little Castle

Construction of the Little Castle began in the early 1600s. It was designed to give the impression of a typical Norman keep. From a distance, the Little Keep rises above the limestone cliff, and it is difficult to tell it apart from a traditional Norman great tower.

The interior of the Little Castle entrance features elaborate Gothic walls, while the basement boasts rounded Romanesque vaults. Its windows offer 360-degree views of the Bolsover landscape.

The Little Castle’s exterior gives the impression of intimidation and power, while the interior showcased luxurious living. It boasted elegant staterooms that included elaborate, ornamental fireplaces, detailed murals, and lavish, cosy furnishings.

Terrace Range and Riding House

The Terrace Range sat in the outer bailey. Here, many exquisite guests were entertained. The building included the Great Gallery, and was a prominent site where the owner once hosted Charles I and Henrietta Maria in 1634.

The Riding House sits in the outer bailey as well. The large, open structure features beautiful exposed wood beams, and was used for equestrian displays.

Modern Layout

Today, those visiting the site can explore the fancy country house that sits atop the remains of the original castle and keep. Although none of the mediaeval structure remains standing on the site, some of the 12th and 13th-century stonework is located in the walls and buildings of the manor.

Much of the inner and outer bailey appear the same as they did in the castle’s heyday, though the inner bailey was transformed into the Fountain Garden during the 17th century. 

The Terrace Range is now a ruinous site without its roof. The Riding House survives in its entirety, is still operational, and is one of the oldest Riding Houses still standing in England.

Images of Bolsover Castle

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Images Supplied and licensed from Shutterstock Standard Licence Package

What Can I See During My Visit to Bolsover Castle?

  • Hear a grand story. Bolsover Castle has staff on-site dressed in era-appropriate garb, with some even dressed as previous occupants. These actors tell stories about the history of the grounds and share the experiences of people who onced resided on the property.

  • Explore the Little Castle. Sir William Cavendish ordered the building of this Norman-inspired keep to act as his living quarters. Though its outer appearance is quite dark and stoic, the interior is a welcomed surprise. It boasts magnificent wall art, intricate fireplaces, and immaculately painted ceilings. 
  • Visit the ruinous Terrace Range. Though it once served as the entrance to the castle grounds, the Terrace Range is now in a ruinous state. It no longer has a roof, but once held grand chambers, an elaborate dining room, and a beautiful gallery.

  • Walk around the Fountain Garden. There are over 5,000 different plants and flowers to explore in this enchanting garden. At the centre of the Fountain Garden is a detailed statue of Venus. This massive space also boasts a private chamber built into the garden wall, and is now open to the public.
  • Check out the spectacular views. Climb to the top of the Wall Walk to take in the surrounding views of the village of Bolsover, the countryside, and the Fountain Garden. These walls offer 360-degree views of the site.
  • Experience the beauty of the Riding House. The riding house is the oldest standing riding school in the country. It is still in good order, and features nearby stables where William Cavendish trained and rode elegant horses. On certain days, visitors can watch period-themed Cavalier Horsemanship displays.
  • Grab a bite to eat. After roaming the grounds of the castle, take a moment to indulge in a hot or cold beverage at the on-site café. Order a delicious cake or sandwich made to order, and take in the views of the castle grounds as you enjoy your treats.

  • Purchase or donate a book. Or do both! The Riding House Viewing Gallery boasts a thrifty book shop where visitors can grab a “new” title or donate their old ones.
  • Let your children enjoy the play place. Bolsover Castle has an outdoor play area situated just outside of the café. Parents can enjoy a coffee as they watch their children swing, slide, and explore the wooden structure.

Bolsover Castle Facts

  1. English Heritage staff voted Bolsover Castle the “most haunted site.” Built atop two old castles, Bolsover Castle is home to plenty of paranormal activity. Those working on the site grounds claim to have heard whispering voices and heavy footsteps. Some have witnessed doors slam, the feeling of cold bursts of air, and the sensation of being pushed or pinched. Staff staying after hours have reported mysterious lights, and visitors have claimed to see the ghost of a boy.
  2. Bolsover Castle was the site of a bloody assault. When the king granted the castle to William de Ferrers, the governor refused to vacate the premises. Upon learning of this news, the king gave Ferrers permission to take the castle by any means necessary. An assault ensued, causing the castellan to surrender.
  3. Rumour has it that Bolsover Castle sits on top of an ancient burial ground. Though unconfirmed, various sources claim that the current 17th-century structure sits on top of a burial ground. Some attribute the large amount of paranormal activity to this. It’s believed that souls buried beneath the castle still roam the grounds.

Bolsover Castle Q&A

Why Is Bolsover Castle Famous?

Bolsover Castle is famous because it contains a stately manor of architectural importance, and the oldest standing riding school in the country. The castle once hosted Charles I and his wife, Henrietta Maria, in 1634. It has remained under the ownership of the Cavendish family for centuries.

Does Anyone Live in Bolsover Castle?

No one lives in Bolsover Castle. Its last residents were John Hamilton Gray and his family. They lived on-site, staying in the “Little Castle,” and carried out numerous repairs to the structures on the grounds. The castle hasn’t had any residents since 1883.

What Has Been Filmed at Bolsover Castle?

Most Haunted Live!, a television show that explored the United Kingdom’s most haunted locations, filmed an episode at Bolsover Castle in 2007 as part of a Halloween special. In 2015, Antiques Roadshow was hosted on the castle grounds.

Who Lived at Bolsover Castle?

Many people lived in Bolsover Castle throughout its history. Prominent occupants include William Peverel, William de Ferrers, and Francis Talbot. Talbot sold the castle to Sir Charles Cavendish in 1590, and the castle has remained in the family since. Today, it is managed by English Heritage.

Location of Bolsover Castle

Bolsover is a small town in north east Derbyshire. Its economy was originally centred around coal mining, though the two plants closed in the early 1990s. Today, its economy is primarily based around manufacturing, with many blue-collar workers.

The town is often endearingly referred to as “the town that time has forgotten,” as it still boasts a rural, old-country vibe. In 2011, the city had approximately 12,000 residents.

In 2007, Bolsover was the filming location for the movie, “Summer,” featuring Robert Carlyle. Scenes were filmed just outside of Bolsover Castle.

Other Places To Visit Near Bolsover Castle

Hardwick Hall

Bess Hardwick commissioned the building of Hardwick Hall, and today, the town is a tribute to her legacy. The incredible home features an elaborate, breathtaking design, complete with golden stonework and intricately-carved glass. It is considered one of the finest buildings dating from the Elizabethan era. Today, visitors can explore the site and view the impeccable designs and luxurious furnishings

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/peak-district-derbyshire/hardwick/discover-hardwick-hall 

Clumber Park

Clumber Park offers visitors the chance to explore over 1,538 hectares (3,800 acres) of lush, green space, magnificent gardens, vast woodlands, and a sparkling lake. This tranquil site also boasts an 18th-century outdoor kitchen garden, a miniature 19th-century cathedral, a bridge dating from the 1800s, and an avenue of towering lime trees.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/nottinghamshire-lincolnshire/clumber-park

Cambridge University

Cambridge University is the oldest public research college still in operation. The site upon which the university sits dates back to the Bronze Age. Visitors can enter the site during one of its many public events, or drive past the site to take in the architectural beauty of the Collegiate Gothic architecture.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_Cambridge 

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