Belvoir Castle is a ‘faux historical’ castle in England‘s East Midlands, overlooking several English counties in the picturesque Vale of Belvoir.
The current fairytale castle was built in the 1830s, but there has been a castle on the site since the Norman Conquest.
Here’s our guide to the castle and its sumptuous grounds.
Where Is Belvoir Castle?
The castle is situated between the midlands city of Nottingham and town of Grantham in Lincolnshire – although it is officially in the county of Leicestershire.
The castle has changed hands many times over its long history and today it is owned by the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. But where exactly can you find this remarkable place?
To be precise, it lies within the hamlet of Woolsthorpe-by-Belvoir – just off Junction 24 on the M1 motorway.
How to Get There
For those travelling by car from London or other points south, take the A1 northbound towards Peterborough until you reach junction 24 for Grantham/Newark Upon Trent (signposted “Grantham South”).
Follow signs for Belvoir village then turn right onto B676 at top of hill before entering village – follow road up through woods and past Gate Lodge; entrance to Belvoir will be found one mile further along lane beyond lodge.
For public transport users there are regular bus services linking nearby villages with larger towns such as Melton Mowbray and Newark upon Trent which have rail links direct from London St Pancras station.
- Train: Kings Cross Station – Newark Northgate Station (~55 mins)
- Bus: Newark Northgate Station – Belvoir Village (~20 mins)
Nearby Attractions
Those visiting Belvoir Country should also consider taking time out to explore some other local attractions including
- Belton House National Trust property & gardens,
- Harlaxton Manor Grade I listed building set amongst 40 acres of parkland,
- Burghley House Elizabethan country house near Stamford
- Notts Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves at Idle Valley
- Attenborough Nature Reserve
History of Belvoir Castle
Construction and Early History
It has been around for centuries, first established as a wooden motte-and-bailey castle by Robert de Todeni in 1067.
Over time, it was rebuilt several times: first with stone in 1150 by his son Hugh de Todeni; again between 1217 and 1223 when it was passed to William d’Aubigny; then between 1467 and 1508 during its ownership under Richard Woodville (1st Earl Rivers).
The castle underwent significant changes over the course of the 16th century. After being burned down by Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil War, Belvoir was reconstructed from 1654 onwards into its current layout – a magnificent Tudor mansion surrounded by landscaped grounds.
This project was overseen by John Webb who had previously worked on projects at Hampton Court Palace, Chatsworth House, and Blenheim Palace.
As we’ve already seen the castle was effectively rebuilt in the 1830s – with minor alterations over the next 80 years – to produce the existing castle.
Historical Significance
Belvoir Castle’s historical importance cannot be overlooked – particularly due to its connection with royalty throughout many centuries.
It served as a home for kings such as Edward I when he visited Leicestershire before embarking on campaigns against Scotland or France; Queen Elizabeth I also stayed here for ten days during her royal progress through England in 1575-6.
Today it serves both as a private residence owned by 5th Duke & Duchess Rutland family but also open parts are available for visitors all year round so they can learn about this majestic place’s rich past – making it one of Britain’s most important heritage sites!
Visiting Belvoir Castle: Things To Do
Exploring the Castle
Belvoir Castle is an impressive sight and a joy to explore. This 11th century castle, located in Leicestershire, England, stands proudly atop a hill overlooking its beautiful surrounding landscape.
From the outside it appears imposing and grand; with four towers at each corner of the building plus two additional towers on either side of the main entrance gate.
Once inside you’ll find yourself immersed in centuries old architecture that has been lovingly restored to its former glory.
The Great Hall is especially noteworthy with its intricately painted ceiling depicting scenes from British mythology as well as other historical figures such as King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.
You’ll also be able to explore many of the other rooms within Belvoir Castle including The Morning Room, Library, Long Gallery and Drawing Room – all boasting unique pieces from around Europe collected by generations past.
Touring The Grounds
In our opinion the best part of Belvoir Castle is actually its gardens and grounds.
The gardens were originally laid out by the 5th Duchess of Rutland in the late 18th century and were much influenced by Italian terraced gardens, which the Duchess observed on her traditional Grand Tour of Europe.
A walk through the grounds reveals plenty of delights – notably Britain’s largest yew maze which can be seen snaking across one end of the estate gardens; perfect for testing your navigational skills…
There’s also something special about walking around these gardens during summertime when vibrant colours from flowers like roses, lavender & dahlias fill every corner much like they would have done hundreds of years ago thanks to careful restoration efforts by dedicated gardeners.
Visiting Events & Attractions
Throughout most weekends throughout summer (and some weekdays) there are events held at Belvoir Castle specifically designed for visitors wanting that extra bit more than just touring castles walls or wandering landscaped gardens.
Special attractions include falconry displays featuring birds such as eagles & hawks up close followed by tours around areas usually closed off due to renovation work or private use only accessible via guided tour groups organised ahead-of-time online or via phone enquiry (usual charge applies).
Other fun activities include puppet shows designed specially for children’s entertainment but parents often enjoy them too!