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Quick Navigation

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

Visiting Hartlebury Castle

Hartlebury Castle is a fortified palace in Worcestershire. It served as the residence of the Bishops of Worcester for over 700 years. During the 20th century, it served as a WWI convalescent hospital and an administrative site for the County Council. Today, the castle boasts an on-site museum and is open to the public for pre-booked tours.

Parking

Visitors may use one of the two free car parks on site. One is a smooth, paved lot and the other has a gravel surface. Both lots are less than 50 metres (164 feet) from the castle’s main entrance.

The paved lot includes three accessible parking bays. These spaces provide easy, level access to the Visitor Reception Centre and castle entrance. Parts of the lot have damaged tarmac and the site is on a small slope, so visitors should be mindful.

To reserve a disabled parking space, please call Hartlebury Castle prior to your visit.

Visitors using the gravel car park must walk through a sprung or kissing gate.

Guests may be set down at the drop-off point to the left of the paved car park.

 

Price

Entrance fees for Hartlebury Castle depend on access, the type of ticket purchased, and whether events are occurring on the date of your visit.

During the Antiques Fair, admission is £2.50 per person (this entrance fee does not provide full access to the site, only the Antiques Fair).

Admission Fees for Whole Site Access

Visitors looking to experience Hartlebury Castle in its entirety should purchase a ticket for whole site access. With these tickets, guests may explore the Bishop’s Palace, the museum, and the castle grounds.

Hartlebury Castle - Prices for Whole Site Access

Ticket Type

Without Donation

Historic Houses Association Members

Free

Adult

£13.25

Child (5-16 Years)

£7.50

Child (Under 5)

Free

Student (with Valid ID)

£11.50

Family (2 Adults, Up to 3 Children)

£35

Senior (60+)

£11.50

Admission Fees for Grounds-Only Access

Those content with exploring the castle grounds only can purchase grounds-only admission at a reduced rate.* These tickets do not provide access to any part of the castle’s interior. 

* Grounds-only tickets are not available on event days.

 

Hartlebury Castle - Prices for Grounds-Only Access

Ticket Type

Without Donation

Historic Houses Association Members

Free

Adult

£5.75

Child (5-16 Years)

£4.00

Child (Under 5)

Free

Student (with Valid ID)

£5.25

Family (2 Adults, Up to 3 Children)

£15

Senior (60+)

£5.25

Admission Fees for Partial Closure Days

From time to time, Hartlebury Castle closes off parts of the site for other events and obligations. During partial closure days, the Bishop’s Palace and castle grounds (including the children’s play area) are off-limits.

For information on upcoming partial closures, please see the Hartlebury Castle official website.

 

Hartlebury Castle - Prices for Partial Closure Days

Ticket Type

Without Donation

Historic Houses Association Members

Free

Adult

£6.25

Child (5-16 Years)

£3.50

Child (Under 5)

Free

Student (with Valid ID)

£5.50

Family (2 Adults, Up to 3 Children)

£17.50

Senior (60+)

£5.50

 

Opening

Hartlebury Castle is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On weekends and bank holidays, the site opens from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Final admission is issued no later than one hour before closing. The on-site café closes at 5 p.m. along with the castle.

Special events may affect opening and closing times. 

Plan Day Visit

Location and Access

The physical address of Hartlebury Castle is:

 

Hartlebury Castle

Hartlebury

Nr Kidderminster

DY11 7XZ

 

Those arriving by vehicle may access Hartlebury Castle via the A449, only 20 minutes from the M42 (Junction 1) and M5 (Junction 6).

For GPS navigation, please use the following coordinates:

  • Latitude: 52.3392
  • Longitude: -2.2420

Access to the site using public transport is available via bus and rail. Please note, public transport is not available on Sundays.

Diamond Buses’ bus 303 travels between Kidderminster and Worcester, making a stop in Hartlebury. The service runs from Monday through Saturday. From the Hartlebury bus stop, it’s about a 15 to 20-minute downhill trek to the castle using Inn Lane. To find out when buses run, please view the timetables on the Worcestershire County Council website.

Rail access is available via Hartlebury Railway Station, about 1.6 kilometres (1 mi) from the castle. Trains run hourly from Birmingham and Worcester, Monday through Saturday.

Alternatively, visitors may access Hartlebury Castle using a taxi service. There are several companies that service the area, each with wheelchair-accessible vehicles available. Those companies include:

  • Regency Taxis
  • P&P Central Taxis
  • Albany Taxis

Know Before You Go

  • Your receipt serves as your ticket. Visitors must keep their receipt on their person at all times.
  • Choose from several food options in the café. Haley’s Kitchen may be accessed separately from the castle. Here, visitors can purchase breakfast, lunch, light snacks, and drinks. On Sundays, there is a tasty Sunday roast. The café is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Final orders of the day are taken half-an-hour before closing. Visitors are required to book Sunday Lunch or Afternoon Tea in advance.
  • Picnics are permitted. There is a designated picnic space (Orchard Picnic Area) where visitors may enjoy lunch outdoors. Alternatively, guests may use Carriage Circle as a picnicking spot.

  • An on-site gift shop sells different souvenirs. In the Visitor Reception Centre, there is a gift shop. Visitors can choose from a selection of various products, including books, carved creations, fridge magnets, stationery, and small snacks and drinks.
  • Dogs are welcome in some areas. Pet canines are only permitted on the outdoor castle grounds, the outside of the café, and inside the Visitor Reception Centre. Exceptions are made for assistance dogs, which are permitted in the main castle and outer buildings. Staff in the Visitor Reception Centre can provide drinking water for dogs upon request.

  • Wheelchair access and wheelchair loans are available. In the main castle, the entrance is automatic, and there are lifts that serve all floors. The Visitor Reception Centre has two wheelchairs available for loan during your visit. If you’ll need a wheelchair, it’s recommended that you pre-book one ahead of time by calling the site. Additionally, caretakers enter the site for free.
  • Public toilets are located in several areas of the site. Accessible toilets are available in the café, courtyard, Bishop’s Palace, and Visitor Reception Centre.

  • There are some on-site hazards. Hartlebury Castle is a historic site, so visitors are reminded to remain mindful of their step. Guests may encounter some uneven paths and floors. Some areas of the paved car park have damaged tarmac. The castle grounds also include some steep slopes and deep water.



Hartlebury Castle Events

Organisers at Hartlebury Castle regularly host events on site. Past events have included outdoor concerts, crafting sessions, nature walks, murder mysteries, and holiday celebrations. 

Special events typically have a separate cost from admission. Please see the Hartlebury Castle Events page for information on current and upcoming events and pricing.

Hartlebury Castle Weddings

Couples looking for a timeless wedding venue should consider the magical grounds of Hartlebury Castle. This historic site is surrounded by picturesque English countryside and boasts several elegant spaces available for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Hartlebury Castle collaborates with Country House Occasions to give guests their dream wedding experience. Country House Occasions offers a broad range of delectable dishes and multiple wine options. An on-site bar is also available for reservation.

Please note, wedding ceremonies and receptions are required to use Country House Occasions’ catering and bar services. However, guests are welcome to use their own suppliers for all other needs.

For more information on Hartlebury Castle weddings, download the castle’s wedding brochure on the official website. To arrange a viewing of the venue before booking, please see the Hartlebury Castle Weddings page.

Hartlebury Castle Tours

Private tours are available at Hartlebury Castle. There are two tours available:

    • The Hurd Library Tour - A tour guide escorts guests throughout The Hurd Library and Bishop’s Palace, detailing the sites’ histories. Groups must consist of at least 6 tourists with a maximum of 30. Cost is £16.50 per person. This fee also provides access to the entire castle site, including the museum and grounds.
    • Collections Centre Tour - Tours of the Worcestershire County Museum include a behind-the-scenes look of artefacts and collections not displayed. Groups must consist of at least 8 participants, and admission fee for the tour is £8.75 per person.


Visitors booking tours with at least 10 people are eligible for discounted tickets (these tickets include access to the full site):

  • Adults - £11.90
  • Students & Seniors - £10.35

Tours should be pre-booked at least 10 days in advance. 

Hartlebury Castle Hire

Whether you’re seeking a venue for a corporate affair or birthday celebration, Hartlebury Castle has several areas for hire to meet your needs. There are multiple indoor state rooms and outdoor spaces available.

In addition, Hartlebury Castle offers catering services. However, guests are also permitted to bring their own food and drink at an additional charge.

Places To Stay Nearby

Travelodge Hartlebury

4 km (2.5 mi) south

Travelodge Hartlebury is conveniently located in the village, only a 6-minute drive or 33-minute walk from Hartlebury Castle. For additional attractions, the Kiddenminster town centre is only 6.4 kilometres away. Here, guests enjoy free on-site parking, a comfortable king-size bed, in-room tea and coffee makers, and a comfortable desk and chair. As an added bonus, the site is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring Fido!

Book

Granary Villa

4 km (2.5 mi) north

Granary Villa boasts several picturesque guest rooms, many of which offer a scenic view of the surrounding countryside. Rooms include free WiFi, on-site parking, a private bathroom, and tea and coffee facilities. A shared kitchen is available for use at an additional charge. Those travelling via air will benefit from the free airport shuttle.

Book

Premier Inn Kidderminster Hotel

8.7 km (5.4 mi) north

If you’re looking for a historic building in which to rest your head, consider the Premier Inn Kidderminster. This hotel facility is located inside of an old Victorian weaving mill, so guests can revel in the beauty of the historic site. With a room booking, guests receive free WiFi, air-conditioned units, a private shower, vanity space, and access to an on-site restaurant.

Book

History of Hartlebury Castle 

The land surrounding Hartlebury Castle was first granted to Bishop Æthelhun in 855 AD. By 1268, the land held a fortified manor. The site served as the home of the Bishops of Worcester for 740 years. It boasts an 18th-century hospital and, during World War I, served as a Red Cross convalescent hospital for soldiers.

Time Line

- 855 AD (Land Grant)

The land upon which the castle sits was granted to Bishop Æthelhun.

- 1268 (Castle Fortified)

Bishop Walter de Cantilupe fortified the site, turning it into a castle. 

- 1282 (Royal Visit)

While on a journey to Wales, King Edward I briefly stayed at Hartlebury Castle.

- 1526 (Mary Tudor)

When Mary Tudor was 10-years-old, she stayed at Hartlebury Castle. Her original destination was Ludlow, but her plans were changed due to the plague.

- 1575 (Royal Visit)

Queen Elizabeth, while travelling to Worcester, stayed at Hartlebury Castle.

- 1646 (Castle Slighted and Sold)

During the English Civil War, the castle was held by Royalists for King Charles I. Later, however, it was surrendered to Parliament without a fight. The castle was slighted but avoided complete demolition after Parliament sold the manor to Thomas Westrowe. 

- 1660 (Return to the Bishops)

The Restoration of 1660 saw Hartlebury Castle returned to the Bishop of Worcester.

- 1675 (Manor House)

James Fleetwood becomes Bishop of Worcester and converts the castle to a country mansion.

- 1782 (Library Founded)

Bishop Hurd completed the building of The Hurd Library.

- 1788 (Royal Visits)

Bishop Hurd welcomed numerous royal visitors, including King George III, Queen Charlotte, and the Duke of York, among others.

- 1807 (Prince of Wales)

George IV, at the time the Prince of Wales, also visited Bishop Hurd.

- 1841 (Emily’s Diary)

When Henry Pepys served as Bishop, his 10-year-old daughter, Emily, occupied the site as well. During her stay, she kept a diary detailing life at the manor.

- 1890 (Castle Moats Filled)

Some areas of the castle moat were infilled and flower gardens were established.

- First World War (Red Cross Hospital)

Wounded soldiers were sent to Hartlebury Castle during the First World War, as the site served as a Red Cross Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) Hospital. 

- 1964 (Worcestershire County Council)

The North Wing of Hartlebury Castle was utilised by Worcestershire County Council. Two years later, the North Wing opened as the Worcestershire County Museum.

- 1980 (Queen Elizabeth II Visits)

After visiting the Cathedral, Queen Elizabeth II stopped for lunch at the castle.

- 2008 (End of Bishop’s Residency)

The last Bishop stayed at Hartlebury Castle in 2007. The residence was moved next to the Cathedral in 2008.

- 2010-Present (Preservation)

Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust (HCPT) was created for the purpose of castle preservation. The goal was to utilise the site for education and public use, while maintaining the historic Hurd Library. After developing a business plan, HCPT was granted millions to preserve the site. After completing multiple renovations, the site opened to the public.

Hartlebury Castle Occupants

  • 955 AD-2007: Hartlebury Castle served as the residence of the Bishops of Worcester. Hundreds of Bishops would use the site as their primary residence.
  • 1282: King Edward I visited the castle.
  • 1526: Mary Tudor briefly stayed at Hartlebury Castle.
  • 1575: Queen Elizabeth visited on her journey to Worcester.
  • 1646: Thomas Westrowe purchased the castle.
  • 1647: The Bishops again took control of the site.
  • 1788: Multiple royal visits occurred, including King George III, Queen Charlotte, three princesses, and the Duke of York.
  • 1807: The Prince of Wales visits. 
  • 1841: Bishop Henry Pepys and his daughter moved into the castle.
  • 1980: Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed lunch at the castle and planted a Magnolia tree.

Hartlebury Castle Architecture

https://seearoundbritain.com/venues/worcestershire-county-museum-hartlebury-castle-hartlebury-worcestershire/pictures 

General Layout

Hartlebury Castle is a grand manor and once served as a masonry castle (upon its fortification). It is constructed with sandstone ashlar and brick and features a u-shaped layout. There is a large moat surrounding the manor.

Original Layout

The front of Hartlebury Castle boasts the Carriage Circle, designed and laid out in 1750 by Bishop Johnson. This grassy space features a paved circular path. Carriage Circle creates a picturesque grand entrance to the castle and features a variety of vibrant plant life.

Castle Interior

Inside the castle at the north end is a 15th-century hall. The hall boasts a five-bay roof. There is a fireplace in the centre of the west hall. The northern end of the hall boasts a staircase, complete with a cast iron handrail. This stairway leads to the kitchen range, which now serves as the museum. A saloon also sits in the north end, decorated with Rococo paper-mache walls and ceiling.

Along the west of the hall once sat the long gallery. Today, it consists of several private staterooms. Above the rooms is the Hurd Library, established in 1782. It boasts multiple bays of bookcases, a coved ceiling, central dome, and marbled columns. There is a fireplace along the eastern wall.

The south side of the castle features the chapel, founded in 1750. It boasts a plaster vault, wall panelling, and a Gothic-style Bishop’s pew. Visitors can see 18th-century glazing at the tops of the windows, diagonal buttresses, and three lancets.

Behind the chapel is the Bishop’s Study, featuring late 17th-century panelling.

The Prince Regent’s Bedroom sits above the entrance hall. It is a rather plain room and includes pelmets dating from 1807.

A central block sits at the eastern front-end of the building. Here, visitors can see a crenellated parapet and porch dating from 1680. Bishop Fleetwood’s coat of arms can be seen above the porch. The roof is an octagonal cupola in a Gothic-style and also features a weather vane.

The Bishop’s Palace boasts 18th-century additions and was remodelled in the 1960s.

Modern Layout

Those visiting Hartlebury Castle can walk around the moat surrounding the site. At the eastern side, it has been filled, but the western moat still contains water. There is a sunken garden in one part of the moat. Just past this area, visitors can see a variety of trees, including a 280-year-old Mulberry.

The Carriage Circle is available for picnics. Visitors can also stroll along the Queen Elizabeth Walk where they can marvel at the fire sculpture and stained-glass windows inside the chapel.

A tour of the castle takes visitors through various spaces, detailing the history of the manor. Visitors can also access the preserved library to see a collection of historic books.

The museum sits within the former servants’ quarters. Here, visitors can see a variety of artefacts based on local heritage.

In addition, there is an on-site cider mill and a Transport Gallery with numerous vehicles for viewing.

Images of Hartlebury Castle

Hartlebury Castle Hartlebury Castle Hartlebury Castle
Hartlebury Castle Hartlebury Castle

Images Supplied and licensed from Shutterstock Standard Licence Package

What Can I See During Visit to Hartlebury Castle?

 

  • Check out the Worcestershire County Museum. Inside the museum, visitors can explore a variety of artefacts and learn more about the history of the site and local area. Fashionistas will enjoy “Captivating Costume,” which showcases fashion throughout the centuries

  • See rooms decorated in various period decor. The scullery and schoolroom are decorated in Victorian-era furnishings, while the Lavish Living exhibit showcases common interior decor designs popular during the 1950s.

  • Stroll around the castle grounds. Around the castle are natural trails boasting different types of plants and wildlife, including various bird species. In autumn, the site becomes a spectacular display of vibrant-coloured foliage. There are several spacious areas where children can roam and play. While trekking along, don’t forget to view the Interpretation Boards to learn more about the site.

 

  • Allow children to let loose in the play area. Hartlebury Castle includes a fun playground for children to explore and burn off some energy. It includes several fun physical activities, including ropes, a zip-line, and slides.

  • See the Hurd Library. This historic library still holds a collection of books dating back centuries. Visitors can access the library to learn more about the history of Hartlebury Castle and examine some of the rare literature.

 

  • See soldier scrapbooks from the First World War. During the first Great War, Hartlebury Castle served as a Red Cross hospital. Nurse Stock took care of some of the men, and while mending the soldiers, she collected letters, drawings, photos, and other memorabilia.Today, visitors can see some of those memories in the form of scrapbooks.

Hartlebury Castle Facts

  1. Two of the Bishops of Worcester were burned at the stake for their faith. This included Hugh Latimer, who was tried and sentenced to death. While tied to the stake, he witnessed the flames approaching and called out, “O Father of heaven, receive my soul!” Witnesses claim he reached out for the flames and perished with no pain. Later on, he was memorialised as one of the Oxford Martyrs. Today, there is a stone memorial near the execution site known as the Martyrs’ Memorial.

  2. The castle served as a Red Cross Hospital. During World War I, Hartlebury Castle served as a convalescent hospital for soldiers. Here, injured men were treated and given time to recover. They received health care, lodging, meals, and other personal services from several Worcestershire women acting as nurses. Once the men were nursed back to health, they were either sent back to the front lines of war or discharged.

  3. According to a past visitor, The Hurd Library is haunted. The visitor mentioned their experience on TripAdvisor, where they allege the secret room within the library is occupied by a spirit. It is within this area that they witnessed the doorknob move on its own, experienced a cold spot by the doorway, and heard a loud bang from the room while it was unoccupied.

Hartlebury Castle Q&A

Who Owns Hartlebury Castle?

The Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust (HCPT) owns Hartlebury Castle, as of 2023. The trust was formed specifically for the preservation of the castle. Purchase of the site was finalised in 2015 and renovations followed shortly thereafter. The site was opened to the public in 2018.

Who Lived at Hartlebury Castle?

Hartlebury Castle has served as a residence for hundreds of people over the centuries, including the Bishops of Worcester from the 13th century to 2007. The site was also visited by royalty, including King Edward in 1282, Queen Elizabeth in 1575, King George III in 1788, and Queen Elizabeth II in 1980.

Who Built Hartlebury Castle?

Bishop Walter de Cantilupe fortified Hartlebury Castle in 1255. His first form of defence was the large moat around the manor. However, there had been a manor on the site as early as 854 AD when it was granted to the Bishops of Worcester by King Burgred of West Mercia.

Location of Hartlebury Castle

Hartlebury is a small village located in Worcestershire, England. It sits just south of Kiddenminster. This small town boasts around 2,700 residents.

Despite its small population, Hartlebury is full of Old English charm, boasting historic cottage homes surrounded by enchanted woodland. Lucky visitors may even witness horses trotting about freely in the fields on the outskirts of the village.

The town boasts numerous quirks, including Hartlebury Castle. All it takes is a walk around town to see the signs of history that still linger in its borders.

Other Places To Visit Near Hartlebury Castle

West Midland Safari Park

Did you know that you can see lions, elephants, and rhinos in England? At the West Midland Safari Park, visitors have the chance to observe these animals in simulated natural habitats. Guests can walk along the African Walking Trail, ride along on the Minibus Safari, or use their own vehicle to explore the drive-through site. Explore the Adventure Theme Park or the dinosaur exhibit, or enjoy an overnight stay in the Safari Lodge.

Little Owl Farm Park

The Little Owl Farm Park is a small farm that boasts over 80 different animal species, including various types of birds, foxes, meerkats, sheep, and more. It’s a great facility for children, as the farm boasts seven play areas, a petting barn, go-karts, and a nature trail. Before you head out, stop in the cafeteria for a delicious bite to eat.

Severn Valley Railway

Severn Valley Railway is a historic heritage railway offering a way for train lovers and history buffs to spend an afternoon or evening. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely steam train ride through parts of England while indulging in spectacular views of the English countryside. Special events occur throughout the year, including Murder Mysteries and dinner on the train.

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