Bolsover Castle

Schools

Discover the history of Bolsover Castle with your students, to bring learning about 1066 and medieval castles, and the 17th century to life. The castle as it appears today is based on Charles Cavendish's work in the 1600's, and you can explore the sumptuous rooms of the Little Castle, the Riding School, the Terrace Range and the Wall Walk.

Information about your visit

Our number one priority remains the health, safety and security of all of our visitors, staff and volunteers. Our staff are still working hard to keep everyone safe and make sure you and your group have an enjoyable visit.

Important information to consider before you book:

  • To keep everyone safe we’re continuing to limit visitor numbers at some sites and in some indoor spaces. Please book as soon as possible to secure your preferred trip date and times.
  • Find out more about what to expect on your school visit and make sure you download our COVID risk assessments; download a free copy of managing education visits during the pandemic and if you're participating in a Discovery Visit download our managing Discovery Visits during the pandemic risk assessment
  • To make the planning process as easy as possible, make sure you check our Plan Your School Trip section at the bottom of this page, for updated information on the facilities at the site as well as our free resources.
  • You’ll need to book your visit at least 14 days in advance. Please check our terms and conditions for full details.
  • Although is it not a requirement, any teachers, parents, or students aged 16 years can check in via the NHS Test and Trace app, using the NHS QR code posters displayed at the site entrance. Please factor this into your travel/arrival time. For more information about how we are handling your personal data for NHS Test and Trace please visit this page.
  • Our staff are continuing to wear a face covering in our busy areas and indoor spaces, and we encourage you and your group to do the same where possible.

At some sites you might not be able to use our handling collections or costumes as part of a free self-led visit, but where we can provide hands-on items in a safe way we will. We’ve adapted our Discovery Visit workshops to keep you and your group safe at all times, but for certain sessions we’re still working on this – please check the Discovery Visit section and Facilities section on this page below for further information.

Curriculum Links

This imposing 17th century castle provides fabulous education opportunities for students, particularly in art, history and geography.

  • KS1 History: Significant historical events, people and places; study of castles
  • KS1-3 History: A local history study
  • KS1-4 Art & Design: The Little Castle contains murals and paintings on panels, as well as exquisite ceilings and fireplaces
  • KS2 History: A study of an aspect or theme in British history that extends pupils' chronological knowledge beyond 1066
  • KS2-3 Geography: Understand the processes influencing changing landscape; understand the strategic significance of the castle’s position
  • KS3 History: The development of Church, state and society in Britain 1066-1509 and 1509-1745; the causes and events of the civil wars throughout Britain

Free Self-led Visits

Discover the rooms of the Terrace Range and Riding House Range, and explore the Little Castle, with its exquisite interior decoration and impressive Wall Walk. 

Enquire now

Plan Your Visit

We have a wide range of materials to support your visit and make school trip planning easy. Download our free resources to help you make the most out of your visit and create unique learning experiences before, during and after your trip.

We also offer free planning visits for group leaders once you have made a booking. Our Education Booking Team is on hand to advise and help you create the best possible school trip to suit your needs and area of study.

  • Facilities
    • PARKING: Parking is located 50 metres from the entrance.
    • SHOP: The shop sells a wide selection of English Heritage gifts, including jams and chutneys; toys and books; stationery and cards; heritage related collectables and much more.
    • TOILETS: Located in the visitor centre.
    • LUNCH: Grassed picnic area with picnic benches.
    • EDUCATION SPACE: The education room is currectly unavailable. 
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