Hartlebury Castle

Hartlebury Castle is a fortified structure with stone walls containing multiple floors of exhibition spaces, period rooms, and the extensive Hurd Library collection. The interior combines museum displays with preserved residential rooms that show how the building was once lived in.

It was built in the mid-13th century as a fortified manor house and served as the principal residence of the Bishop of Worcester for over 800 years. Its role as a seat of religious authority shaped the area's development for centuries.

The castle houses collections showing local archaeology and traditional crafts, revealing how people lived in the region over centuries. You can see old tools, textiles, and everyday objects that tell the story of the area and its inhabitants.

The site welcomes visitors on multiple days per week and offers guided tours through select areas such as the State Rooms. It is helpful to check ahead about which areas are accessible on your visit day, as not all rooms are always open to the public.

During World War I, it became a Red Cross Hospital where wounded soldiers created handmade scrapbooks documenting their recovery. These personal albums, filled with notes and illustrations, are still preserved and shown to visitors today.

Location: Hartlebury

Inception: 13 century

Address: Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Worcestershire, DY11 7XZ

Phone: 01299250416

Website: https://hartleburycastle.com

GPS coordinates: 52.33910,-2.24200

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44