Things To See and Do
Little Castle
The Little Castle was created as an extravagant retreat by playboy, poet and courtier, Sir William Cavendish. With medieval-style turrets and towers it was a building designed to surprise and delight.
Even royalty came here, in 1634, when Sir William spent a staggering £15,000 on banquets and entertainment for King Charles I, and his Queen Henrietta Maria.
Brilliantly preserved and beautifully restored, the labyrinth of sumptuous rooms will treat your senses with richly coloured wall art, carved marble fireplaces and stunning painted ceilings.
Terrace Range
The vast Terrace Range overlooking the Vale of Scarsdale was also created by Sir William. Now a dramatic roofless shell this was once a range of stately rooms that formed the entrance to Bolsover Castle.
Use your multi media guide to fire your imagination and see once more the grand dining room, long gallery and basement kitchen that stood here.
Fountain Garden
The Fountain Garden was designed around the statue of Venus - goddess of love and pleasure - emerging from her bath. It included a secluded chamber for intimate banquets set into the garden wall. With re-glazed original windows and new hand-carved doors, we have opened this room to the public for the first time.
Wander the gardens and enjoy the 5,000 plants and flowers we have planted to capture the spirit of the garden in its heyday. Fan-trained fruit trees and colourful planting around the walls are all lovingly tended by our volunteer gardeners.
Garden fashion in the 17th century included 'outlandish' foreign bulbs such as tulips, and for special occasions, fanciful designs cut into turf and filled with colourful gravels.
Wall Walk
For the first time in almost 250 years you can stroll along Bolsover Castle's newly restored wall walk.
With stunning countryside views, and the fountain garden down below, you can strut along the Cavalier's catwalk, like a Stuart courtier wanting to see and be seen.
The circular walls go right around the garden, allowing panoramic views over Bolsover Castle grounds and the Vale of Scarsdale. Bring your camera to capture that perfect shot.
Tearoom Treats
Rest your feet after exploring the castle in our fantastic café and treat yourself to a yummy sandwich, refreshing hot drink or tempting homemade cake.
If it’s a lovely day, feel free to perch on a picnic bench or spread out your blanket and enjoy a relaxing lunch in the castle grounds.
