Things To See and Do
The Great Hall
Step back in time in Stokesay's great hall, unchanged for more than 700 years. The fine timber roof and staircase, with treads cut from whole tree trunks, all show the same carpenters' mark from 1291. Gaze through the huge shuttered gable windows which let light flood in and frame stunning views of the Shropshire countryside.
The North Tower
Explore the north tower which stands to one side of the great hall. The original medieval tiled floor and remains of a wall painting inside provide a glimpse into Stokesay's past life as a home.
The Solar
Inside the solar, or private apartment block, you will discover a beautifully ornate overmantel carved with fruit, flowers and figures. Once brightly coloured it still has traces of the original red, green and gold paint. The two-storey solar has one of the few post-medieval alterations to the castle, having been refashioned in the 17th century into a fine panelled chamber.
The South Tower
Stokesay's tall south tower is the most castle-like part of the site, self-contained and reached by a defensible stairway. The shape of the tower, a lobed octagon, is cunningly designed so that from the outside it looks like a fortified gatehouse.
The tower is testament to the sophisticated tastes of Laurence of Ludlow, the man who created Stokesay Castle.
The Gatehouse
As you walk through the 17th-century, timber-framed gatehouse into Stokesay, take a moment to admire the beautifully ornate carvings in its frame. Look closely and see if you can spot Adam and Eve, an angel, and the Stokesay Dragon.
Refuel and Relax
With idyllic views of the Shropshire Hills, Stokesay Castle’s tearoom offers a range of sandwiches, light bites, cakes and bakes featuring local and seasonal produce. After a busy day exploring the castle, take some time out and get a real taste of the area, with recipes inspired by traditional Shropshire fare. The tearoom's log burner gives it a cosy cottage feel, and there's plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy a spot of summer sunshine.
If you're planning a group visit to the tearoom, we would be very grateful if you could let us know in advance.
You can find allergen and nutritional information here.
Walled Garden and Moat Walk
Visit our beautiful walled garden planted in a cottage style and designed to enhance the Edwardian feel of the space. This garden features a mix of herbaceous perennial plants and shrubs as well as Hydrangeas and Aster, Philadelphus (mock orange), lavenders and old variety roses.
The clipped box and hollies offer a traditional country garden feel, which is reminiscent of designers such as journalist and gardener, William Robinson, and horticulturist and garden designer, Gertrude Jekyll. Take a stroll around our moat walk taking in views of the Castle and surrounding stunning Shropshire Hills.
Heritage inspired shopping
Browse heritage-inspired gifts, traditional children's toys and souvenirs. Sample our selection of wines, chutneys and jams or pick up information on castle events and other English Heritage properties. You can also shop online before or after your visit.
Plan your visit to Stokesay Castle today.
Visit the online shopMake the Most of your Visit
Pick up our free audio tour and imagine Stokesay in its heyday, as a bustling centre of medieval life. Young visitors can also enjoy our new family trail, based on the local legend that the hills either side of Stokesay Castle are giants who've lost the keys to their treasure chest. Can you find the lost key?
Brand new displays bring the castle's history to life, with each room using furniture and objects to tell the story of Stokesay's past residents
