From luxurious suites fit for a king or queen, to romantic strolls through the gardens and a fine-dining dinner to remember, here’s my review of Thornbury Castle.
Romantic weekends away are pretty sparse these days! We have a baby and a toddler, so finding babysitting for both of them is tricky. But, when I mentioned to my family that Macca and I would love to celebrate our five year wedding anniversary with a night away, the troops were rallied! Sisters moved in, nieces came for entertainment, and all of a sudden we were in the car, just the two of us, driving the 1 hour 40 to Thornbury Castle.
This Tudor Castle lies a little way outside of Bristol, and is an ideal hotel for a romantic escape. It ticks all the boxes. It’s got luxurious suites with four-poster beds; serene walled gardens filled with pretty flowers and a fountain centre-piece. Plus, the restaurant is top-rated, boasting three AA Rosettes and a host of awards.
I hadn’t realised until we checked in, that this is the only Tudor Castle in England that is a hotel. How amazing to stay overnight at somewhere with so much history. We spotted countless portraits of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn – two of the castle’s most famous guests! Yes, this castle really is fit for a king… but what did WE think of it?
My Honest Thornbury Castle Hotel Review
We drove through the pretty town of Thornbury and turned into the 16th century castle’s entrance. It’s quite the spectacle as you arrive! The wide lawns, the castle towers and a grand drive through a huge archway. You drive past the fountain and croquet lawn, before reaching the car park. Seeing all of this immediately, was a lovely little flavour of what was to come over the next 24 hours!
Elizabeth of York Suite Review
We checked in at reception and were taken to our ‘bed chamber’. We’d be staying in the Elizabeth of York Suite, a grand bedroom at the top of an ancient spiral staircase. As the key unlocked the door, we were in awe of the spacious room with its impressive four-poster bed, regal green and gold furnishings and large table overlooking the croquet lawn. There was a dressing room and writing desk separating the bedroom and a spacious tiled bathroom with a lovely roll-top bath.
Adorning the walls were portraits of Henry VIII and other historic faces. Everything felt wonderfully historic, sticking with the Tudor theme throughout, but with the modern touches we all expect from a luxury hotel. For example, there was a coffee machine, gorgeously soft sheets and my favourite Molton Brown toiletries in the bathroom!
Exploring the Gardens at Thornbury Castle
Some luxury hotels have lots of facilities, but staying at Thornbury Castle is more about the historic experience. Shortly after we checked in, we went for a gorgeous stroll around the gardens. There’s a courtyard garden with a large fountain, a croquet lawn, rose garden, kitchen garden and a walled garden.
Visiting in summer, the walled gardens were full of colourful blooms and some of the largest hydrageas I’ve seen. I also really enjoyed exploring the kitchen garden, which was full of strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes and rhubarb.
As it was a perfect summer’s day, it was lovely to see a scattering of tables outside on the lawn by the castle. We decided having a cocktail in the peaceful gardens would be the ideal start to our romantic break. We’re so used to travelling everywhere with our kids these days, we couldn’t believe how relaxing it was to sit here, just the two of us!
We also took a stroll through the castle’s bar and lounge area. Both rooms were dressed in historic ways, with more plush furnishings, old portraits and antiques. We also spotted a group having afternoon tea, next to a huge suit of armour!
Dinner at Thornbury Castle’s Three AA Rosette Restaurant
We got dressed up for dinner and made our way to the castle’s dining rooms. Our package included a three-course menu, but there was an option to upgrade to the six-course tasting menu for just £20 per person. How often do we get the chance to enjoy a kid-free meal? Of course we upgraded! We’re foodies, and this was a meal we’d been looking forward to for ages!
The meal began with a delicious Jerusalem artichoke amuse-bouche. This was a decadent bowl with a frothy and earthy artichoke espuma, topped with a few drops of black garlic oil and small pieces of blood orange. What a great start – we knew this dinner was going to be special!
Next up, I had the burrata, which came with a delicious red pepper romesco sauce and laminated bread. Classic Mediterranean flavours, done well. My partner had the crab raviolo with a lobster bisque. The bisque was so rich and silky, with all the flavours of the sea.
The next course was a chicken and foie royale, which was essentially a small chicken drumstick covered in a crispy coating, plus a small terrine of chicken and foie royale (the ethical alternative to foie gras). It was moist and delicious, with comforting chicken flavours, and a delightful black garlic oil.
The main course was one of my favourites! There was a delicious slice of rare breed beef sirloin, served perfectly pink. The plate was so inviting, with crispy rosti, carrots, a velvety carrot puree, mushroom puree, wilted spinach, and a glossy red wine sauce. Yum! Despite our tummies feeling quite full, we both devoured every single morsel and practically licked the plates clean!
There were two desserts. The first was a fun take on a piña colada cocktail. It even came with a novelty umbrella! There was a tasty pineapple jelly, coconut mousse and caramelised pineapple. I managed most of it, but wow was I full by this point.
I wasn’t quite prepared for the final course, a rich Belgian chocolate soufflé, topped with the Thornbury Castle gold emblem. I had a few mouthfuls just to taste, and it was utterly delicious. So indulgent! Sadly, there was no way I could finish it, although my husband found room!
Dinner at Thornbury Castle exceeded all expectations. Upgrading to the tasting menu made the evening feel extra special, giving us time to enjoy the experience and the rare time together. The cooking was excellent, and every single dish was presented like a work of art.
After dinner we walked back to our suite, admiring the illuminated castle. It was so pretty at night!
The next morning we returned to the same dining room for a leisurely breakfast. Honestly, after several years of trips with our little ones, I can’t remember the last time I drank a coffee hot, or enjoyed a meal without a million interruptions. It was lovely!
I had the eggs royale, while my partner tucked into the full English. We also enjoyed a plate of charcuterie with fluffy sourdough bread. Needless to say, we left the castle looking more like Henry VIII than when we arrived!
I heard a few American families in the room. They were absolutely lapping up the charm and history of the castle. What a treat for them to stay somewhere so old!
Things to do at Thornbury Castle
Thornbury Castle isn’t the sort of hotel you visit for a spa or endless facilities. Instead, the appeal lies in the atmosphere, history and exceptional food. If you’re looking for a place packed with activities, this probably isn’t it. But if you want somewhere to slow down and soak up centuries of history, it’s hard to beat!
However, saying that, there are a few activities available. Most are pre-bookable though, and come at an extra charge.
Croquet: There is a croquet lawn and set of mallets and balls available. We played this on our second morning and it was lots of fun. Plus, this is complimentary!
Tudor Costume Hire: Dress up in authentic replica Tudor attire, then take memorable photos in the gardens or inside the castle.
Longbow Archery: You can book a session where you’ll learn how to shoot with a bow and arrow from an instructor.
Axe Throwing: You can test your aim throwing hatchets and angels at targets in the grounds, with plenty of guidance of course!
History Tours: How about taking a guided tour of the inside and outside of the castle with a local historian?
Falconry Displays: Enjoy an entertaining and educational live demonstration showcasing the ancient sport of hunting with birds of prey.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Take a scenic 30-minute ride around the local town in a carriage.
Is Thornbury Castle Worth It?
Thornbury Castle offers something few hotels can: the chance to spend a night surrounded by genuine Tudor history without sacrificing modern comfort. We left feeling refreshed, and adored having the time together in such a beautiful setting. Our suite was so plush and comfortable, the dinner was one of the best we’ve had in years and everything felt so luxurious.
If there was to be one negative, it was that the Henry VIII theme was a little over the top! Yes, he stayed there, but I didn’t need to see his portrait on every single wall or table!
We were very sad to leave, but it was wonderful to return to our two children, feeling like we had the energy they deserved! If you’re celebrating a special occasion, or simply want one of the UK’s most unique romantic hotel, this is a brilliant choice!
Looking for other luxury accommodation in the UK? Check out my other reviews:
