Thornbury Castle facts for kids
Thornbury Castle is a historic castle built during the Tudor period in Thornbury, Gloucestershire, England. It stands right next to the old St Mary's Church. Construction started in 1511 for Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham. It wasn't really built as a military fort. Instead, it was an early example of a grand English country house from the Tudor era, with only a few defensive features. Today, it is a very important historic building, known as a Grade I listed site.
Castle's Story
This spot was home to a manor house as early as 930 AD. A famous person named Jasper Tudor, Duke of Bedford, died in the old manor house in 1495.
Big plans were made to build a much grander home. The Duke even got special permission in 1508 to add battlements and towers, which was called a "Licence to crenellate." However, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham was accused of treason (going against the king) and was executed in 1521 by King Henry VIII. This stopped the castle's construction.
The main parts of Thornbury Castle were designed around courtyards. The impressive entrance, with its central gatehouse and round corner towers, is still standing. There are also two other parts with many unique shapes and towers.
After the Duke's death, King Henry VIII took over Thornbury Castle. He even stayed there for ten days in August 1535 with Queen Anne Boleyn. Later, in 1554, Queen Mary gave the castle and its lands to Henry Stafford, 1st Baron Stafford.
After the English Civil War, the castle became quite run-down. But in 1824, the Howard family fixed it up and brought it back to life.
Thornbury Castle Today
Today, Thornbury Castle is a fancy hotel and restaurant with 26 rooms. It's also a popular place for weddings.
From 1966 to 1986, the castle was home to one of the UK's best restaurants, run by Kenneth Bell. Some famous chefs, like food writer Nigel Slater and MasterChef New Zealand judge Simon Gault, started their careers working there.
The Thornbury Castle Train
There's also a special train named after the castle! It's a GWR Castle class steam locomotive, number 7027, called Thornbury Castle. This train is still preserved today.
Images for kids
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The Castle seen from the top of St Mary's Church tower
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Detail of Castle chimneys
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Thornbury Castle chimney detail, brickwork built in 1514
