The castle is nestled within large grounds, where you can emulate traditional upper-class Tudor life with a spot of archery, axe throwing or falconry. Bristol, the Cotswolds and Cheltenham are not far away and the market town of Thornbury itself is worth a visit. Expect to find traditional old English shops and if you like a nice oldy-worlde pub there's plenty to choose from, be sure to order a locally distilled 6 O'Clock Gin.
By car: around 1 hour 30 mins from Birmingham, 3 hours 10 mins from Manchester and 2 hours 45 mins from London. There is free parking on-site.
By train: London Paddington to Bristol Parkway takes 1 hour 23 mins. The hotel is a 20-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Bristol Parkway.
The attention to detail is incredible, from matching Tudor rose motifs on the carpet, mirrored on the ceiling, to comfortable throne-like chairs to sit in. The rich trappings exude a voluptuous vibe with a sense of story. Some of the Duke's globally collected furniture and ornaments remain in situ. The grounds are just as nice; you'll find straw skeps (beehives) hiding in alcoves in the Goodley Garden, from which honey, mead and beeswax would have been made for the King all those years ago.
To call the castle your workplace must be special, perhaps that's why the staff are so cheerful and welcoming. From reception to waiting staff, everyone is a joy to encounter. Facilities are modern-day luxe, fitting for the surroundings, with inviting robes and slippers waiting for you in the bathroom and sleek tea and coffee-making facilities, all making you feel at home.
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Pet-friendly
- Free parking on-site
- Free Wi-Fi
The rooms with stone-walled interiors still manage to exude warmth and comfort. Large portraits with gilded frames, regal patterned carpets, working fireplaces and thoughtful in-keeping lavish furniture add to the chic ambience.
Room types: Deluxe, Superior Deluxe room, Suite, Deluxe, Jen Seymour, Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon Tower suites
Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with shower, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi
Executive chef Carl Cleghorn has created a menu worthy of the elaborate surroundings. The canapés and cocktails using herbs from the hotel kitchen garden will kickstart a memorable dining experience and the tasting menu includes dishes such as Loch Duart salmon, cucumber, fennel, avocado and dill, rich beef fillet, ratte potato and local garden greens.
Restaurant: two AA Rosettes. Formal fine dining, modern British cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A la carte menu £62
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