Belvoir Castle rises above the Leicestershire countryside as one of England’s grandest stately homes. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, the castle offers a mix of regal history, landscaped gardens, and sweeping views of the Vale of Belvoir. This practical guide explains everything you need to know before visiting – including ticket prices, parking, opening hours, and how to make the most of your day.
History and overview of Belvoir Castle
Belvoir Castle has been the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Rutland for over a thousand years, although the current structure dates from the early 19th century. The original Norman castle, built shortly after the Battle of Hastings, fell into disrepair and was rebuilt several times, each version reflecting the architectural style of its era. The present Gothic Revival masterpiece was designed by architect James Wyatt in 1801, creating the grand castle that stands today.
The Manners family, who have lived here since the 16th century, played an important role in English political and military history. The castle’s state rooms house portraits of royalty and aristocracy, along with fine art, tapestries, and antiques collected over generations. Walking through the rooms gives visitors a glimpse into the life of an English ducal household.
Outside, the Belvoir Castle gardens are equally impressive. Designed by Capability Brown and later restored by Emma, Duchess of Rutland, they include formal terraces, sculptures, and meandering woodland walks. The gardens provide excellent opportunities for photography and picnics, especially in spring and summer when the borders are in bloom.
Today, the castle remains both a family home and a working estate. It hosts seasonal events such as garden fairs, Christmas markets, and medieval re-enactments, making it a lively year-round attraction for history enthusiasts and families alike.
What to see and do at Belvoir Castle
Visitors can tour the castle’s grand interiors, which include the lavish Guardroom, the opulent Ballroom, and the intricate Elizabeth Saloon. Guided tours are available for those wanting deeper insight into the building’s history and the family that still resides there.
Outside, the gardens and estate walks cover thousands of acres. The woodland trails lead to scenic viewpoints over the Vale of Belvoir, while the rose gardens and Japanese gardens are ideal for a leisurely stroll. The castle also has an on-site restaurant, café, and a gift shop selling local produce and crafts.
For families, there’s a play area near the Engine Yard shopping village and regular seasonal events such as falconry displays and children’s treasure hunts. Dogs are welcome in the gardens and estate walks but not inside the castle itself.
Ticket prices and opening hours
As of October 2025, ticket prices for Belvoir Castle are £23.40 for adults, £9 for children (aged 4–16), and £21.60 for concessions. Gardens-only tickets are £9 for adults and £5.40 for children. The castle is open from 10.00am to 5pm, Thursday to Monday. During the winter months, opening days may be reduced, so it’s best to check the current schedule before travelling.
Parking and how to get there
Parking is available on site near the castle entrance for a small fee of £3 per vehicle. There are additional free spaces near the Engine Yard retail area, a short walk from the main gate. Disabled parking bays are provided close to the visitor entrance.
Belvoir Castle is best reached by car, located off the A607 between Grantham and Melton Mowbray. The nearest train stations are Grantham and Bottesford, both about 20 minutes away by taxi. There is no direct public bus service to the castle, so visitors relying on public transport should plan for onward travel by taxi from Grantham station.
Best times to visit Belvoir Castle
The castle and gardens are busiest on weekends and during school holidays. For a quieter experience, plan a weekday visit or arrive early in the morning. Spring and early summer are particularly rewarding as the gardens are in bloom, while autumn brings stunning colour to the surrounding woodland.
Accessibility and visitor facilities
Belvoir Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, though some areas inside have uneven floors or staircases. The gardens feature gravel and grass paths that may be challenging for some visitors. Accessible toilets and a café with step-free access are available near the main courtyard. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the estate.
The Engine Yard, adjacent to the castle entrance, features shops, restaurants and a farm shop, making it an ideal stop before or after your castle visit.
Useful information and FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where is Belvoir Castle located? | Belvoir, near Grantham, Leicestershire NG32 1PA. |
| What are the ticket prices? | Adults £23.40, Children £9, Concessions £21.60. Gardens only £9 (adult) and £5.40 (child). |
| When is it open? | Thursday to Monday, 10am to 5pm |
| Is parking available? | Yes, on-site parking costs £3, with additional free parking near the Engine Yard. |
| Are the paths wheelchair-friendly? | Partially – the main courtyard and café are accessible, but some garden paths are uneven. |
| Are there cafés or restaurants on site? | Yes, the castle café and Engine Yard restaurants serve meals, snacks, and afternoon tea. |
| How long should I allow for a visit? | At least three hours to explore the castle, gardens, and Engine Yard area. |
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More East Midlands travel
Other East Midlands travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- 9 reasons to visit Nottingham.
- The extraordinary sacrifices of the Eyam plague village.
- Planning a visit to the Cromford Mills in Derbyshire.
- Twycross Zoo visitor guide.
- A practical guide to visiting Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle.
