Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens
Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and tranquil parkland at Grimsthorpe Castle, a majestic family estate in Lincolnshire.
Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens is a historic Lincolnshire estate featuring a majestic castle with a blend of Tudor and Baroque architecture, extensive formal gardens, ancient woodlands, and a large lake. The estate offers visitors beautifully maintained gardens, wildlife spotting opportunities, and family-friendly amenities including an adventure playground and tea trailer. It has been home to the same family since 1516 and showcases fine furniture, paintings, and tapestries within the castle interiors.
A brief summary to Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens
- Estate Office, Bourne, Grimsthorpe, PE10 0LY, GB
- +441778591205
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit between May and September when the castle and gardens are open to the public.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the extensive parkland and woodland trails.
- Enjoy refreshments at The March Hare Tea Trailer near the entrance for takeaway snacks and drinks.
- Families should not miss the adventure playground nestled in the woodland for children’s outdoor fun.
- Check the official website for seasonal opening times and any private event closures before visiting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Bourne, the journey to Grimsthorpe Castle takes approximately 15-20 minutes via local roads. Free parking is available on-site. Note that rural roads may be narrow and seasonal weather can affect driving conditions.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Bourne to nearby villages; however, direct public transport to Grimsthorpe is limited. Visitors should plan for a taxi or cycle from the nearest bus stop, with taxi fares typically around £10-£15.
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Cycling
Cyclists can enjoy scenic routes through Lincolnshire countryside to Grimsthorpe, with traffic-free trails available on the estate grounds. The ride from Bourne is roughly 10 km and suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens
A Storied Architectural Masterpiece
Grimsthorpe Castle stands as a magnificent testament to centuries of English architectural evolution. The mansion’s four sides each display distinct styles, reflecting changes from the 13th century through Tudor and Baroque influences. The castle’s golden limestone façade, sourced locally, was the final grand project of Sir John Vanbrugh, renowned for Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard. Inside, visitors can admire lavishly furnished rooms filled with exquisite tapestries, paintings, ceramics, and fine furniture, all preserved by the family that has owned the estate since 1516.Gardens and Grounds of Elegance and Wilderness
Surrounding the castle are extensive formal gardens featuring intricate parterres edged with box hedges, a dramatic herbaceous border, and a variety of themed gardens including rose, kitchen, and walled gardens. Beyond the cultivated areas lie ancient woodlands and a 50-acre lake, creating a serene natural backdrop. The estate’s 3,000 acres of parkland are home to wild deer species such as Red, Fallow, and Muntjac, offering wildlife enthusiasts rewarding encounters along miles of traffic-free walking and cycling trails.Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities
Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens caters well to families, with a woodland adventure playground that includes a zip wire, climbing trails, and see-saws nestled in tranquil surroundings. The estate encourages exploration and play, making it an ideal spot for children to engage with nature safely. Picnic areas and seating spots are scattered throughout the grounds, providing restful pauses amid the greenery.Visitor Amenities and Seasonal Access
Visitors can enjoy refreshments from The March Hare Tea Trailer, located near the car park entrance, offering takeaway options on open days. A farm shop operates year-round, supplying local produce. The estate is committed to accessibility, with facilities including accessible parking, toilets, buggy services, and welcome provisions for guide dogs. Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens open seasonally from May to September, with park hours from 10am to 5pm and castle tours from 11am to 4pm.A Place of Heritage and Tranquility
The estate’s rich history is palpable in its atmosphere, described as filled with a ‘Spirit of Place.’ The combination of historic architecture, art collections, and natural beauty offers a unique cultural heritage experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings, explore the heritage trails, and appreciate the continuity of family stewardship that has preserved Grimsthorpe’s grandeur through the ages.Preservation and Conservation Efforts
Grimsthorpe Castle is not only a historic residence but also a protected environment supporting wildlife habitats and sustainable land management. The estate balances public access with conservation, maintaining its woodlands and gardens with care. This commitment ensures that the castle and its grounds remain a treasured landmark for future generations to enjoy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Grantham Museum
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Bellmount Tower
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The Leagate Inn
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The Bridge & Bayleaf
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Tom Browns - Nottingham
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The Old Vol
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The Petwood Hotel
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Scarlet Gifts
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Lace Boutique
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Newark Antiques & Interiors Ltd
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The Little Boutique Co UK Ltd
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Brant Road Shopping Centre
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Birchwood Shopping Centre
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
