Groups are invited to Sudeley Castle & Gardens in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, to discover more about its fascinating 1,000-year history with expert guided tours on offer and discounts and benefits for groups of 15 or more.
On arrival at Sudeley, visitors can immediately immerse themselves in the stunning grounds, which includes 10 magnificent, award-winning gardens. The Tithe Barn, which dates back to the 15th century, was partly destroyed by Parliamentarian forces in the English Civil War and today has been transformed into a romantic garden beside a koi carp pond, with spectacular views of the castle and surrounded by the ruins of the old barn. Visitors can discover the horticultural secrets and history of Sudeley’s 10 gardens with an expertly guided Garden Tour (90 minutes, starting from £12.50 per person + admission), or embark on a journey through time and discover the fascinating history of Sudeley’s buildings on a Historic Grounds Tour (90 minutes, starting from £12.50 per person + admission). This includes the Chapel, St Mary’s, the final resting place of the Tudor Queen Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII, who outlived him.
Launched in 2025, the Ruins to Revival outdoor exhibition depicts Sudeley’s dramatic history from 1646 – 1900 through a series of watercolour paintings and illustrations, displayed within the grounds and surrounded by Sudeley’s glorious gardens. At the heart of the exhibition is a collection of works from 1818 by renowned topographical artist, John Buckler. These rediscovered paintings offer a rare glimpse of the castle in its ruined state following the English Civil War ‘slighting’. Along with these evocative artworks, visitors can explore pieces of stone ruins, immerse themselves in a short civil war film and view the original alabaster block from the Tudor burial of Queen Katherine Parr.
Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Castle Rooms, which offer an insight into the many unique treasures, rare objects and famous paintings accumulated over the years, including works by Turner, van Dyke and The Allegory of the Tudor Succession commissioned by Elizabeth I in 1585, one of Sudeley’s greatest treasures and an insightful portrait depicting the fortunes and dynamics of the Tudor dynasty.
For an even deeper insight, book the History of Sudeley Talk (a seated 45-minute talk, £9 per person + admission) to delve into key moments in the estate’s history. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch or traditional afternoon tea with exclusive use of the Orangery (hot lunch from £17.95 per person, packed lunch from £12.95 per person, light lunch from £10.50 per person, afternoon tea from £19.50 per person).
For a closer look into Sudeley’s past and present, book an exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour (90 minutes, price upon request, max 15 people) and step beyond closed doors to discover more about the historic home of Elizabeth, Lady Ashcombe, and the Dent-Brocklehurst family and the private family rooms usually closed to the public.
Group booking benefits at Sudeley Castle & Gardens:
- Dedicated member of staff to assist with planning
- Discounted admission rates
- Free visit for group leader or driver
- Free parking
- Café voucher for coach driver
- Special group menus and exclusive use of the Orangery
- Special group talks and expert guided tours
- Tours available in English, French, Italian and German
- Carers admitted free of charge
- Two manual ‘off-road’ wheelchairs available to pre-book
- Assistance dogs admitted into all facilities
- Wheelchair-friendly pathways
To find out more about group bookings at Sudeley Castle & Gardens, see https://sudeleycastle.co.uk/plan-your-visit/group-bookings or contact groups@sudeley.org.uk or 01242 602308.
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