Tutbury Castle, Tutbury (Staffordshire)
Summary
- 13th century buildings (or older)
- No smoking
- Guided tours
- Gift shop
- Gardens
- Public car parking for a charge (nearby)
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Food and Drinks
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Introduction
Tutbury Castle stands above the River Dove and lies on the border of Derbyshire and Staffordshire. The castle itself is linked with many important figures and events in English history such as Mary Queen of Scots, who was imprisioned at the castle. Today all that remains of the medieval castle are the great hall and the inner shell. The tower that now stands on top of the motte was built as recently as the mid 18th century.
The castle is open to visitors but also hosts, historical speakers, re-enactor events, craft fairs, ghost hunts and weddings.
History to the present day
The original Norman castle was built in 1071 for Hugh de Avranches but then was transferred to Henry, Lord of Ferriers and Chambrais in Normandy.
In 1174, William Ferrers came into conflict with the crown causing Henry II to lay siege to the castle, and subsequently to order that it be demolished. The castle was rebuilt, but in 1263, Prince Edward (the future King Edward I) also attacked the castle, again causing great damage. In 1265 Henry III gave Tutbury Castle to his younger son Edmund, created Earl of Lancaster in 1267. It has remained in the hands of the Earls and Dukes of Lancaster ever since.
In 1362, John of Gaunt, second Duke of Lancaster, gained Royal permission to repair the castle, and over the next century new walls, towers and buildings were added. However the castle was already in a poor state of repair when Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned at Tutbury in the late 16th century. In 1646, during the Civil War, the castle fell to Parliamentary forces after a three week siege and was ordered to be destroyed, leaving the ruins visible today.
Food and Drinks
Tea shop available for light snacks and refreshments. Open during castle hours.
Grounds and gardens
Castle grounds to explore with views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors are welcome to picnic in the grounds.
Other facilities
Guided tours available. Car parking at the castle. Shop.
Arrival information and how to find us
Address: , Staffordshire, , United Kingdom
Address: Tutbury Castle, Tutbury, Staffordshire, DE13 9JF
Opening Hours: April - September. Wednesday to Sunday 11.00am - 5.00pm
Directions: From the A50 follow signs for Hatton/Tutbury, when in Tutbury follow the tourism signs for Tutbury Castle.
Nearest Station: Tutbury & Hatton
