Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire.

To be truly accurate the above is actually called the Little Castle.  So before I take you inside, let me explain.

The Little Castle is really a tower within the walls of Bolsover Castle.  Bolsover Castle stands high above the north Derbyshire Countryside.  Built on the site of a Medieval Fortification, Bolsover Castle was the dream of Sir Charles Cavendish.  Construction started in the very early 1600’s, with work on the Little Castle commencing in 1621. Work halted and some damage done when the Castle was occupied by Parliamentarians in the English Civil Wars of 1642/51.

It should be mentioned that the Castle was never intended as a Fortification.  After the Wars, it was restored and construction continued, to complete the Castle built for pleasure. So don’t be surprised at the sumptuous and lovingly restored interior of the Little Castle. So lets pop inside for a brief peak…

Pleasure was not just limited to the Little Castle.  The main Castle complex is more substantial, in terms of size, rooms, terraces and galleries, all spread along the hillside.  Today much of these buildings are only shells, but still convey the enormous size and complexity of the Castle.

Part of this complex was the concept of Sir William Cavendish who built a Riding School and Stables for the elegant horses he imported from as far afield as Turkey and North Africa. Today exhibitions of Cavalier Horsemanship is demonstrated for visitors.  Sadly I cannot illustrate this modern and exciting aspect as photography of the Demonstrations is not permitted.

I hope you have enjoyed our Saturday Tour…two castle in one cannot be bad.  Now don’t forget to shut the door when you leave 🙂

Please Remember to ….

Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other

10th April

(C) David Oakes 2021