Bolton Castle Castles

Bolton Castle is open to visitors all year round. There are five floors, sparsely furnished with tableaux depicting castle life in the 15th century. Visitors usually roam around in their own time, but if you would like a themed guided tour for a group please contact us beforehand and arrange it. Built over 18 years it was completed in 1399. During the English Civil War Bolton was a royalist stronghold, and was besieged and fell to Cromwell in 1645. The castle is externally three-quarters complete and internally about a third; it is one of the best preserved castles remaining in private ownership.

In the summer there are mediaeval living history and re-enactment events. Most of the events are accessible to all ages. There are some childrens' days, where children can dress-up and be mediaeval children for the day or afternoon. There are also open-air theatrical productions in the summer.

Some of the castle's history is depicted by Tableaux. Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in Bolton for 6 months after being transferred from Carlisle Castle by Lord Henry Scrope, Warden of the West Marches and Captain of Carlisle; under orders from Elizabeth I. While Mary was 'imprisoned' at Bolton she had 51 personal servants! You can see the tableaux of her bedroom on the right.

There is a mediaeval garden, based on mediaeval plans which has recently been rejuvenated to full glory. There is a walled herb garden with nearly all of the indigenous herbs available today. There is also a vineyard - the highest and second most northerly in England. Rose Gardens, a Bowling Green (unused), a Maze and a growing orchard are also feature; all managed by Dave Spenceley the gardener.

There is a shop which sells souvenirs and postcards and a tea-room which serves a selection of home-made cakes, cream-teas and light lunches. The local pubs & restaurants also provide a good lunch.

Some areas on the lower floor are accessible by wheel-chair, but the staircases are too narrow to get a wheel-chair to the upper floors.

Opening Times:

April-September - 10am - 5pm

October - March - 10am - 4pm/dusk

Please ring and warn us before bringing large groups.