Perched high on a hilltop dominating a medieval town stands Bolsover Castle. Steeped in tales of horsemanship, parties and ghosts, this 11th-century masterpiece is arguably one of England’s most unfound treasures. This is no ordinary castle; here, you can see the riding stables where King Charles’s riding master – William Cavendish, first commissioned his 17th-century Riding House. William would bring in horses from all over the world to train them in his passion for dressage, making the castle a landmark in British equestrianism.
Outside of his love for horses, William liked the finer things in life and loved art decor. This was reflected in the Little Castle’s remarkable wall paintings and interiors, which can still be seen today. As a renowned playboy, William loved nothing more than a good party and Bolsover Castle certainly hosted many! Today you can explore the Terrace Range, where once the grand dining room, long gallery and basement kitchen bore witness to these lavish parties.
Outside you can venture onto the scenic wall walk, which firmly places you in the footsteps of Bolsover’s Cavalier courtiers; from here, you can admire the picturesque Fountain Garden in all of its glory, with the famous Venus Fountain at its centrepiece. However, make sure you leave before midnight, or you may encounter the Grey Lady of Bolsover, a ghostly apparition that supposedly walks these fine walls!
