Bolsover Castle

This hilltop castle was built as a fashionable retreat for 17th-Century courtiers to entertain influential guests. Now its reputation for revelry lives on as we entertain you and your family.

Every inch a lavish party palace, where once moustached gentlemen caroused alongside bejewelled ladies. Enjoy the labyrinth of rooms, carved marble fireplaces, beautifully painted ceilings, and richly coloured wall paintings.

There are no ropes or barriers inside the Little Castle – all the reproduction furniture here can be touched, sat on and enjoyed. Open up 17th-century style 'cabinets of curiosity' to discover Bolsover's secrets, and learn how the castle was used for banqueting, relaxing and partying, by Sir William Cavendish.

Turn the wheels in our introductory exhibition in the Riding House to reveal intriguing facts about Bolsover Castle – from the architecture to the people, and politics of its past.

Outside head up to walk the walls surrounding the fountain garden and delight in the stunning views. Wander the romantic ruined terrace range using your multimedia guide to fire your imagination and see once more the grand dining room, long gallery and basement kitchen that stood here.

The Riding School, where one-time owner William Cavendish trained his horses, is amongst the finest in the country. Try to time your visit to enjoy a display of Cavalier horsemanship (weekends, April to September). The riders are clothed in the frills, feathers and high boots of the period and expertly demonstrate moves that we know today as dressage.

Kids can grab a multimedia guide jam-packed with fun games, bite-sized information, and extra insights. They can dress up in costumes and take to the stage in a room dedicated to theatrics. Or let them run riot in our children’s play area, built like a mini Little Castle.