Introduction

This fascinating 11th century fortified site stands high on a natural glacial edge in 35 acres. Below, you will see the River Dove, plains green and lush and understand why the Warlords have used this as a strategic controlling spot for hundreds of years. Tutbury Castle is a scheduled monument.

You will see as you walk towards the massive stone gate that the moat is man-made and never filled with water. Palisades (sharp sticks) were positioned in rows to stop invaders and then the walls themselves were heavily fortified.

Much of the Castle is in ruin, destroyed by Act of Parliament in revenge for sheltering Charles 1st and because it represents royalty in this area. It still does, being owned by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. It has been in the monarch’s hands since the 1300’s except for one brief spell under Cromwell.

The South Tower was the Royal apartments and the North Tower held the Apothecary of Mary Queen of Scots (Tutbury’s most famous prisoner).

We must never forget the bravery and courage of the people of this area who gave their lives up to what they believed in – their King.

A full colour Guide Book is available for £3.50 at the ticket office and in the tea room. £1.50 extra for P & P if you want a guide book sent to your home.

In the Great Hall which is usually open, a guide is available to give you a tour.

The Queen's Garden Tea Room

Open for light lunches and glorious old-fashioned teas, visitors can also, on occasion, enjoy the tastes and smells of Tudor recipes! This light and airy room brings the garden indoors whatever the weather.

The Great Hall

Charles I spent much time in this room, some of it with his nephew Prince Rupert at the start of the Civil War. The fireplace is reputed to have been built specially for King Charles on his instruction.

After the ravages of Cromwell and the restoration of Charles II, the King visited this room and no doubt considered how it had offered shelter to his martyred father.