Bolsover Castle
Bolsover Castle
4.5
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
With spectacular views over Derbyshire, the fairy-tale Stuart mansion, Bolsover Castle, was designed to entertain and impress. Its reputation for revelry lives on as we now entertain you and your family. Wander the lavish rooms of the Little Castle, explore the romantic ruined terrace range, and delight in the views from the wall walk. Start your visit in the exhibition in the Riding House then run wild in extensive grounds (and fun play area).
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- Jason PlantClay Cross, United Kingdom713 contributionsLovely day out.Had a lovely day out today lots of thing to see and do. The gardens are kept very clean and well maintained fantastic for a picnic. There is a fantastic play are for the kids. Lots of rooms to explore and see. There is a lovely cafe for a bite of something to eat and drink and the staff are very friendly. There is lots of free parking in Bolsover.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 7 October 2023
- Elizabeth DBelper, United Kingdom66 contributionsBolsover castleWe visited Bolsover Castle very much a last minute “ oh let’s go and look”! We were greeted by a lovely lady on the door and went inside. Instantly seeing the cafe, we started there. Just in time for the freshly baked scones coming out of the oven. Delicious and still warm. Yes again welcoming staff. We went to the entrance desk where a very informative lady talked us through the area. Such a view, the buildings are very interesting. There are guides around who can tell you about things and answer questions. We sat in the gardens. Fortunately for October it was a pleasantly warm day. Well worth a visitVisited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 11 October 2023
- Qri0usBanbury, United Kingdom8 contributionsExcellent talks and activities that bring history to lifeWe had a great visit during half term, and there seems to be a programme of activities for other holidays too. Brilliant presenter who had four different shows across the day. Beautiful location, with great EV charging nearby!Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 24 February 2024
- Madeleine J107 contributionsStunning CastleWe are blessed to have this amazing castle in our town, looked after by English Heritage. Built in the 12th Century, it is steeped in local history and is built high up on a hill with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The oldest part of the castle consists of interesting ruins, however, you are also able to wander around inside the 'little castle' building. Be mindful that there are a few staircases to climb inside. There is a nice cafe serving hot food and drinks plus a small gift shop. There are public toilets just outside the main entrance and also within the main castle grounds. There is outside seating, a play area for children and a garden area. Dogs are welcome, although they are not allowed inside the little castle. A lovely place to visitVisited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 March 2024
- adyvalLong Eaton, United Kingdom989 contributions1st time visit!st time visit today Friday 22nd March 2024. Free parking just 5 minutes walk away. We had free tickets thanks to our daughter and husband who are English Heritage members. We had booked tickets online and booking in at reception was quick and easy. We enjoyed our visit with great views from various points. We didnt visit all the castle as i have a mobility issue and couldnt make the stairs easily as there are no hand rails. There is a cafe with lots of outside seating and a childrens play area which is currently being done up. Would like to go again on a less windy day and take in them views with my binocularsVisited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 March 2024
- Sue D18 contributionsVisit to Bolsover CastleLovely sunny day fortunately. Saw the Cavendish horse display in the oldest riding house still used and then joined the free guided tour of the derelict part of the castle. Beverly brought everything to life with her enthusiasm and knowledge. The tearoom was reasonably priced. The children's play area seemed to be enjoyed. Places to bring a picnic too.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 April 2024
- KBWLaunceston, United Kingdom222 contributionsGreat place to visitWe arrived early afternoon on the way back from visiting family. There are too small carparks that you can use and it isn't just for EH visitors, it is actually open to the public, we were lucky to have bagged the last space. Toilets as you approach and next to the shop which is where you enter, lovely variety of different things to buy, toy swords and shields, dragons and an array of different things to keep the kids happy, with jam, chutney and a tipple for the adults! The castle is lovely to walk around and you can go inside, little rooms and twisting staircases lead you to much grander rooms, we thoroughly enjoyed it. The views are just fantastic. The playground is good, looks to be a new climbing frame, and seemed to have been enjoyed by all the children playing there, mine loved it too, running around, jumping, climbing, sliding down, making friends and making up games together. Nothing beats fresh air and fun outside. There is a cafe but I didn't actually buy anything as we had eaten before we arrived, people around us at the picnic tables had ordered food and from what I can see looked very tasty! We are EH members so it didn't cost us anything to get in, and if you buy anything in the shop and show your membership card you get 10% off. We had a great afternoon, loved every minute.Visited April 2024Travelled with familyWritten 27 April 2024
- SarahS6 contributionsKids rule knight training day!We visited on the Kids Rule day. The knight training started out with an entertaining and interactive story followed by various sessions throughout the day. Master Rhys and Master John put on brilliant page training, sword skills and a final battle which our kids loved. The sessions were just the right length and engaged our 3 and 5 year olds perfectly. This is the first time we have been since the playground has been added which is a welcome addition. We will back for the jousting in August and knight training next year!!Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 1 June 2024
- Melissa PFarnborough, United Kingdom6 contributionsEvent dayWe took a family trip for the events day Saturday 1st June. We always love visiting this castle, however today's trip was fantastic. The entertainment provided by the 2 great gentleman around page, squaire and knights training we fab. Our little one loved joining in ( so did I) the role play was so much fun and not to long. Splitting it up throughout the day ment we could still have time to explore, eat lunch, play in the park and visit the book shop. Despite our eldest not joining in due to a broken arm, the audience participation and fun of each event kept her well entertained. I've never seen a duo mange a lot of children so well, they kept it flowing and so much fun. Please please bring them back. We will be looking out for events like this again. At the end of the day, my little one said "mummy, it's been the best day ever and now I am I knight, can I tell you what to do" Thank you for a great venue and fantastic entertainmentVisited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 3 June 2024
- Richard G3 contributionsLovely breakfastsBreakfast is amazing, such a great setting, related and full of charm. The owners and staff are brilliant, espe ially like the Polish food twist on the menu if you want that.Try the polish desert it's to die for !!Visited June 2024Travelled soloWritten 29 June 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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Ilovemyfood
United Kingdom78 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
Visited with my children and was greeted by a lady stood outside the front who spent at least10 minutes trying to hard sell me setting up a yearly membership. All happy smiles until I didn't sign up then she turned her attention to the next group (good luck!)
Not the greatest first impression we carried on through to the tills to purchase tickets. An extremely miserable older gentleman served us. No hello, no small talk, no eye contact and definitely no manners!
Reluctantly we went further inside (if we didn't have two excited kids with us we would of run away) the playground looked good yet very busy. Lots of tables dotted around but most say you can't sit on them unless you buy from their cafe so if you wanted to take a picnic you will also need a blanket etc
The castle itself is NOTHING like any of the images we viewed. It's extremely run down. Most of the rooms are just empty or cornered off so you can't go inside and there is no access for disabled people
Very expensive for a very disappointing "day out"
We will never return and will most definitely let everyone know of our terrible experience. Thank goodness I didn't get a membership!!!
Not the greatest first impression we carried on through to the tills to purchase tickets. An extremely miserable older gentleman served us. No hello, no small talk, no eye contact and definitely no manners!
Reluctantly we went further inside (if we didn't have two excited kids with us we would of run away) the playground looked good yet very busy. Lots of tables dotted around but most say you can't sit on them unless you buy from their cafe so if you wanted to take a picnic you will also need a blanket etc
The castle itself is NOTHING like any of the images we viewed. It's extremely run down. Most of the rooms are just empty or cornered off so you can't go inside and there is no access for disabled people
Very expensive for a very disappointing "day out"
We will never return and will most definitely let everyone know of our terrible experience. Thank goodness I didn't get a membership!!!
Written 18 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca G
Blackpool, UK192 contributions
Sept 2020
Keen to support the heritage industry during these times, we booked online the day before and were looking forward to spending a few hours at Bolsover.
Official car parking is next door the local Wetherspoons and used by the village, so was full, even at 10am on a weekday. The overflow is just past the site entrance on the road bend, with a very narrow entrance. Park on the grass, next to the castle wall.
Prompt opening and a warm welcome by the staff, who explained that the upper floors of the castle interior were closed off due to a water leak. The castle wall walk was closed too, due to social distancing. The one way system in the castle worked well, but we were glad it was quiet. On busy days, it would be difficult to stay apart and keep the flow going.
The ruined part of the site is dramatic, with fantastic views over the valley.
With planned events on in the riding rooms and on the lawn, this place would come alive when visited with children. However, we were round the whole place in 30 minutes, even at an amble and reading all the plaques. That's why I'd question the level of the admission fee.
With investment in more heritage interpretation signage, this place could really come alive for a lone visitor.
The village is worth a walk around too, especially on market day. Just a few stalls selling fresh produce, but adds to the atmosphere.
Official car parking is next door the local Wetherspoons and used by the village, so was full, even at 10am on a weekday. The overflow is just past the site entrance on the road bend, with a very narrow entrance. Park on the grass, next to the castle wall.
Prompt opening and a warm welcome by the staff, who explained that the upper floors of the castle interior were closed off due to a water leak. The castle wall walk was closed too, due to social distancing. The one way system in the castle worked well, but we were glad it was quiet. On busy days, it would be difficult to stay apart and keep the flow going.
The ruined part of the site is dramatic, with fantastic views over the valley.
With planned events on in the riding rooms and on the lawn, this place would come alive when visited with children. However, we were round the whole place in 30 minutes, even at an amble and reading all the plaques. That's why I'd question the level of the admission fee.
With investment in more heritage interpretation signage, this place could really come alive for a lone visitor.
The village is worth a walk around too, especially on market day. Just a few stalls selling fresh produce, but adds to the atmosphere.
Written 5 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dianaecave
Chesterfield, UK37 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
Bolsover Castle is a wonderful day out normally and at Halloween when we visited, it was wonderful, but it didn’t look as though much thought had gone into the Santa experience.
My family and I went to the Santa experience at Bolsover Castle December 2022. It was an audience with Santa but included 12/15 other families and not at all private hence the children did not feel able to enjoy it fully.
It was held in Bolsover Castles riding Hall and not a grotto and it was absolutely freezing and barely decorated for Christmas. Santa looked more like the German Saint Nikolaus , we were sat at the back and could not hear him very well. The Children didn’t hear the story he was telling (which actually was a nice story about how the Robin got it’s Red breast).
The children were called down by the elf to come to speak to Santa and collect their present. I had my five grandchildren with me and their parents and we had to ask for them to go down to Santa together as we would have liked a photo of them all with him and the tree.
My eldest granddaughter 11 was too embarrassed to go in front of all the other families, but even so it was very difficult to get a photo of the others and Santa didn’t turn round to give a photo opportunity.
We had paid for all five children to see Santa, but because my eldest granddaughter did not go down to him, i had to ask for her gift otherwise they were going to let her go without one and both her and my 10-year-old grandson got a box of dominoes each.
It certainly wasn’t worth the money that we paid.
To top it all off my youngest grandson fell outside and ended up in A&E with a cut to his head (which was not anyone’s fault) but all in all it was a very disappointing day.
Sorry
My family and I went to the Santa experience at Bolsover Castle December 2022. It was an audience with Santa but included 12/15 other families and not at all private hence the children did not feel able to enjoy it fully.
It was held in Bolsover Castles riding Hall and not a grotto and it was absolutely freezing and barely decorated for Christmas. Santa looked more like the German Saint Nikolaus , we were sat at the back and could not hear him very well. The Children didn’t hear the story he was telling (which actually was a nice story about how the Robin got it’s Red breast).
The children were called down by the elf to come to speak to Santa and collect their present. I had my five grandchildren with me and their parents and we had to ask for them to go down to Santa together as we would have liked a photo of them all with him and the tree.
My eldest granddaughter 11 was too embarrassed to go in front of all the other families, but even so it was very difficult to get a photo of the others and Santa didn’t turn round to give a photo opportunity.
We had paid for all five children to see Santa, but because my eldest granddaughter did not go down to him, i had to ask for her gift otherwise they were going to let her go without one and both her and my 10-year-old grandson got a box of dominoes each.
It certainly wasn’t worth the money that we paid.
To top it all off my youngest grandson fell outside and ended up in A&E with a cut to his head (which was not anyone’s fault) but all in all it was a very disappointing day.
Sorry
Written 11 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard_Heaps
Broadstairs, UK151 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
Quite an interesting place to occupy a couple of hours. Part ruins, part stately home. Interesting painted rooms inside, nice views, but not all that much else. Children enjoyed exploring and doing the activity trail. We went on a summer day so could sit out for a picnic. Be warned the cafe is a bit on the pricey side so suggest bringing your own snacks.
Written 4 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dillan1965
Leeds, UK236 contributions
Oct 2021
Had high hopes for Bolsover Castle but have to say it's somewhat a hit and miss affair. Parking isn't easy as the 'official signposted' car park is small and the 'official' additional parking isn't that much larger. We parked the other side of Bolsover by the church, a good 15 minute walk.
We are English Heritage members so whether you wish to pay the high entrance fee of, at the time of writing £20 per adult if you aren't a member, then fine. Personally, I feel the entrance fee is excessive.
The majority of the castle is ruin. There is an overview of the history of Charles Cavendish and Bolsover in the 'horse' building.
The 'Little Castle' is lovely as are the gardens and the walled garden. You can walk the walls.
If you are expecting plenty of background information in and around the ruins and the Little Castle gardens by virtue of information boards, then you will be disappointed. There's not much at all.
We are English Heritage members so whether you wish to pay the high entrance fee of, at the time of writing £20 per adult if you aren't a member, then fine. Personally, I feel the entrance fee is excessive.
The majority of the castle is ruin. There is an overview of the history of Charles Cavendish and Bolsover in the 'horse' building.
The 'Little Castle' is lovely as are the gardens and the walled garden. You can walk the walls.
If you are expecting plenty of background information in and around the ruins and the Little Castle gardens by virtue of information boards, then you will be disappointed. There's not much at all.
Written 11 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JohnJCF
Romford, UK72 contributions
May 2021
Had a great visit aided by a great guide! My wife and I visited Bolsover Castle today as part of our visit to this part of Derbyshire. As members of National Heritage there was no charge for our entry. On our arrival we were made aware that a volunteer, Chris, was providing a tour of the grounds. We had not researched the castle so didn't really know what to expect. We are pleased to say that with Chris as our guide the Castle was brought to life. His explanations and detailed introduction to the building and grounds was clear and precise and we came away with a real understanding of Bolsover Castle including it's glory days and it's more troubled times. We cannot thank Chris enough for his time as a volunteer providing us with a truly worthwhile visit that went on to include the inside areas of the buildings, wearing masks of course! We thoroughly recommend a visit to this wonderful place of history!! We must add that all of the staff and volunteers were very accomodating!
Written 20 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wgeddert
Lincoln, UK106 contributions
Oct 2020
Amazing views from the castle. We visited on a cold wet day, so did not linger too much and regrettably have not had much chance to fully appreciate the outdoor areas. Maybe, compared to other castles, the entrance fee is a bit high (for paying visitors rather than on English Heritage membership). Good for a visit if in the vicinity.
Written 1 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
brads_clarke
Derby, UK21 contributions
Sept 2020
I visited the Castle with my adult daughter on a sunny Monday in Sept 2020. The best thing about the castle is the views. The worse thing is the inside. It is quite stripped back with mainly wall features and fire places. I found the ticket price a little steep for what you got.
The parking is a bit odd. It looks like a public house car park but is for the castle with limited disabled parking but is free. You can park on the road. There are toilets near the entrance in the visitor centre/cafe. This has a good range of goods and food/drinks. Picnic tables outside.
There are more toilets at the far end of the castle. If you struggle with stairs do not attempt the spiral staircase as there is no hand rail. It might be better to visit on a day they do events in the grounds to get value for money. But if you just want breath taking views you will be happy.
The parking is a bit odd. It looks like a public house car park but is for the castle with limited disabled parking but is free. You can park on the road. There are toilets near the entrance in the visitor centre/cafe. This has a good range of goods and food/drinks. Picnic tables outside.
There are more toilets at the far end of the castle. If you struggle with stairs do not attempt the spiral staircase as there is no hand rail. It might be better to visit on a day they do events in the grounds to get value for money. But if you just want breath taking views you will be happy.
Written 20 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Graham C
London, UK529 contributions
Aug 2021
Went with friends who have been before and recomended a visit. It was well worth the trip and the castle is splendid but rather outshone by the courtyard gardens which we thought were fabulous. It is worth trying to visit when these would be at their best but that is also when there are school holidays and there were a lot of children about enjoying themselves. The cafe was good but very, very busy so if you want food/drink look for short queues and go for it. Car parking is also a downside when the castle is busy. We found the overflow parking better; it is signed (badly) on the corner of Castle Street and has a small sign for "Addditional Parking".
Written 21 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charles_and_Susan
Nottingham, UK7,622 contributions
Oct 2020
We booked on one of the guided Ghost Tours - as you do. The guy who took the Tour seemed to want to amuse us rather than scare. His joking did get a few laughs at the beginning but towards the end fell rather flat.
I'm sure that there must be many ghostly happenings and strange tales to tell from the history of a castle this age. What we needed was a few more details of supposed happenings rather than an over-enthusiastic banter aimed to make us amused - a quote attributed to Queen Victoria: we were not amused ..... neither were we scared!
I'm sure that there must be many ghostly happenings and strange tales to tell from the history of a castle this age. What we needed was a few more details of supposed happenings rather than an over-enthusiastic banter aimed to make us amused - a quote attributed to Queen Victoria: we were not amused ..... neither were we scared!
Written 29 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Over 65 is 16- with "gift" and 14.50 without, it is 18/16.30 regularly...consider a yearly pass for English Heritage. Two adults over 65 is 96 total. There are so many properties to see, our pass has more than paid for itself.
Written 10 June 2023
Do you pay just to wander around the grounds with dogs, we dont want to go inside but just to wander around the circular walk
Written 6 November 2019
Hi - from what I remember you pay to go into the castle as a whole which includes all the grounds and the buildings, etc. I can't remember that there's any area around the castle or grounds that you can get to without paying.
Written 7 November 2019
Hi, Yes, as per one of your other responses, there is an overflow car park just outside the castle walls. It's quite a large grassy area and we parked there. I'm sure it would take a motor home. The public car park over the road looked quite tight.
Written 17 July 2019
SO many of these questions can be answered by visiting the website!
Written 17 April 2018
Mikeyorkie10
Huddersfield, United Kingdom
You mention a playground in your review - were thinking about visiting with a 13 and 9 year old - is it suitable?
Written 5 April 2018
I would think it would be ok for your 9 year old. But not your 13 year old. If there not too keen on history and walking around the grounds, maybe visit on a day that there is an event on. Which should be on their website
Written 6 April 2018
Is there wheelchair access and are there any restrictions please?
Written 25 March 2018
A Tripadvisor member
Good wheelchair access to the grounds, visitor centre/café/shop/toilets but due to the age and nature of the castle structure, it's not possible to use a wheelchair. A quick call with the property to discuss specific requirements will give a more detailed response.
Written 26 March 2018
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