Tutbury Castle: A Storied Medieval Fortress in Staffordshire
Explore the medieval ruins and royal history of Tutbury Castle, set amidst scenic Staffordshire countryside with events and gardens to discover.
Tutbury Castle, perched above the River Dove in Staffordshire, is a historic medieval fortress renowned for its royal connections, including the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots. Visitors can explore atmospheric ruins, a Tudor garden, and the Great Hall, set amidst scenic countryside views. The castle hosts events like ghost hunts and medieval festivals but is currently closed for general public visits pending a new curator.
A brief summary to Tutbury Castle
- Castle St, Tutbury, Burton upon Trent, DE13 9JF, GB
- +441283812129
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the castle’s official website for current opening times and event schedules, as the site may close temporarily.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes to safely explore uneven ruins and slopes.
- Book tickets in advance for popular events like ghost hunts to secure your place.
- Visit the nearby village of Tutbury to explore antique shops and historic St. Mary's Church.
- Use the wheelchair-friendly paths from the car park and tea-room for easier access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Tutbury & Hatton Station, approximately a 10-minute walk from the castle. Trains run regularly from Burton upon Trent and Derby, with ticket prices ranging from £5 to £15 depending on origin.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Burton upon Trent to Tutbury village; the journey takes about 20–30 minutes. Check local timetables for frequency. Bus fares typically cost around £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving to Tutbury Castle is convenient, with parking available at the castle car park. Parking is free but limited, especially during events. Note that vehicle access through John of Gaunt’s gateway is restricted when private bookings occur.
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Walking
For those staying in Tutbury village, a 15–20 minute walk to the castle is possible via uneven terrain with some slopes and stairs, requiring moderate fitness and sturdy footwear.
Tutbury Castle 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 Tutbury Castle
Historical Legacy and Royal Connections
Tutbury Castle dates back to the 11th century, originally established as a Norman stronghold. Its strategic position overlooking the River Dove made it a key site throughout English history. The castle is notably linked to Mary, Queen of Scots, who was imprisoned here multiple times during the 16th century. Over centuries, the castle witnessed royal visits, including King Henry VIII, and underwent various phases of repair and decline. The rediscovery of the Great Hall in the 20th century revitalized interest in the site, highlighting its medieval grandeur.Architectural Features and Grounds
The castle’s ruins include a brick-built central keep and remnants of the original motte, enhanced in the 18th century by Lord Vernon who added a folly atop the motte. Visitors can explore the authentic Tudor garden and a medieval herbery, offering a glimpse into historical horticulture. The King’s lodging displays original 16th and 17th-century furniture, enriching the historical atmosphere. The castle grounds also feature uneven terrain with slopes and stairs, reflecting the site's medieval origins.Visitor Experience and Events
While the castle is currently closed for general admission pending a new curator, it is known for hosting a variety of events when open, including medieval festivals, historical reenactments, and popular paranormal ghost hunts. These events draw enthusiasts eager to experience the castle’s reputed haunted atmosphere. The site includes a tearoom and crafts shop, enhancing the visitor experience with refreshments and local artisan goods.Setting and Scenic Views
Situated in the charming village of Tutbury, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Staffordshire countryside. The surrounding area includes quaint antique shops and historic landmarks such as St. Mary's Church. The elevated position of the castle provides iconic vistas, especially from the folly on the motte, making it a scenic highlight for visitors and photographers.Accessibility and Practical Information
Tutbury Castle’s paths from the car park and tea-room are wheelchair-friendly, with accessible toilets and assistance available on-site. However, some areas may be challenging in wet or icy conditions due to uneven and slippery surfaces. Tickets can be booked in advance, with season passes available for families. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear to navigate the ruins safely.Local Attractions and Amenities
Nearby attractions include the Tutbury Museum, showcasing local history, and Barton Marina for lakeside walks and dining. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels to countryside inns. The castle’s location within Burton upon Trent provides additional amenities and transport connections, including a nearby train station about a 10-minute walk away.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Derby Ram Statue
16.0 km
Discover Derby’s iconic ram statue, a vibrant symbol of local legend, heritage, and community pride in the heart of the city.
Memorial Clock Tower
26.0 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Cromford Mills
29.2 km
Explore the historical marvel of Cromford Mills, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the legacy of the Industrial Revolution in a picturesque setting.
The Ancient High House
29.3 km
Explore the Ancient High House, a stunning 16th-century museum in Stafford, where history comes to life through engaging exhibits and breathtaking architecture.
Peak District Mining Museum
30.1 km
Explore the rich mining heritage of the Peak District at the Peak District Mining Museum, an engaging destination for all ages.
Wingfield Manor
30.4 km
Explore Wingfield Manor, a stunning heritage site in South Wingfield, where history meets picturesque landscapes and architectural beauty.
Heights of Abraham
30.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Heights of Abraham, a mountain cable car attraction in the Peak District offering stunning views, engaging history, and delightful outdoor experiences.
Stafford Castle
31.4 km
Explore the stunning Stafford Castle, a medieval marvel that offers a captivating journey through England's rich history and picturesque landscapes.
Pic Tor War Memorial
31.9 km
A solemn Celtic cross atop Pic Tor, offering panoramic views and heartfelt remembrance of Matlock’s war heroes.
The Hemlock Stone
32.5 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
33.0 km
Discover history at Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum, where the architectural beauty of cultural heritage meets the charm of Nottinghamshire's rural past.
Rowtor Rocks
33.1 km
Discover breathtaking views and adventurous trails at Rowtor Rocks, a stunning natural wonder in the Peak District National Park.
Beeston Lock
33.1 km
Explore Beeston Lock, a historical landmark in Nottingham, where scenic beauty and rich industrial heritage come together for an unforgettable experience.
Wollaton Park Lake
33.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Nottingham Industrial Museum
33.6 km
Discover Nottingham's industrial heritage at the Nottingham Industrial Museum, where history meets technology in an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Forest Adventure Farm
5.8 km
A vibrant family farm adventure with animals, play zones, seasonal events, and a sprawling maize maze near Burton-on-Trent.
Sinai Park House Trust
6.2 km
Explore the captivating medieval timber-framed Sinai Park House, a 1300s moated landmark steeped in history and local lore in Burton-on-Trent.
Coopers Square
7.6 km
A central shopping hub in Burton-on-Trent offering diverse stores, casual dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
14.9 km
A serene 150-acre living tribute in Staffordshire, honouring service and sacrifice through woodland memorials and reflective spaces.
Kedleston Hall
15.1 km
Explore Kedleston Hall’s stunning 18th-century Neo-classical mansion, rich collections, and sweeping historic parkland near Derby.
Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
15.4 km
An 18th-century haunted prison where history, paranormal mystery, and immersive theatre converge in England's ghost capital.
Reform Bill Heads (Friar Gate Heads)
15.5 km
Historic sculptural heads on Friar Gate commemorating Derby’s pivotal role in the 19th-century Reform Bill riots and political change.
Pickford's House
15.5 km
Discover Georgian elegance, local legends, and cultural heritage at Derby’s Pickford's House Museum, a free-entry historic gem with period rooms and unique exhibitions.
National Trust - The Old Manor
15.6 km
Discover the medieval charm and tranquil gardens of The Old Manor, a historic stone hall nestled in Derbyshire’s scenic countryside.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
15.8 km
Free world-class art and antiquities in Derby's cultural heart, anchored by the world's largest Joseph Wright collection.
Cathedral Quarter Derby
15.8 km
Derby’s historic heart: cobbled lanes, Victorian arcades, independent boutiques, cafés and culture around the cathedral.
Five Lamps Pub
15.9 km
A friendly and lively traditional pub on Duffield Road, offering a welcoming atmosphere and classic British drinks in Derby.
Derby Cathedral
16.0 km
Discover Derby’s historic cathedral blending Georgian elegance, rich heritage, and vibrant cultural life in the city centre.
Derbion
16.1 km
Derbion: Derby’s vibrant heart for shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture under one roof.
Derbion shopping centre
16.1 km
Derbion Shopping Centre: Over 200 shops, vibrant dining, and entertainment in the heart of Derby city centre.
Essential places to dine
The Lighthouse Restaurant
7.2 km
An intimate fine dining gem in Derbyshire offering inventive seasonal British cuisine with impeccable service and a cozy countryside setting.
The Boot Inn
9.7 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Repton offering award-winning British cuisine, boutique rooms, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bulls Head Repton
10.0 km
A vibrant and quaint pub in Repton serving generous, delicious meals in a warm, historic setting with a lively atmosphere.
The Tasting Club Restaurant
13.0 km
An intimate tasting menu experience blending rustic charm and refined flavors in Ashbourne’s historic Buttermilk Coffee House.
Emily's Steakhouse
15.5 km
Cozy British steakhouse in Derby offering expertly cooked steaks with classic sides and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
The Dining Room
15.7 km
An intimate Derby restaurant serving exquisite, locally sourced British dishes with warm, attentive service in a cozy setting.
Carnero Lounge
15.9 km
A welcoming Derby lounge offering vibrant vegan and gluten-free dishes in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting with excellent coffee and friendly service.
Darleys Restaurant & Terrace
17.2 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic river views in a historic mill setting at Darley Abbey, Derby.
Lamplight Restaurant Ltd
17.8 km
Discover innovative Anglo-French cuisine in a cozy, family-run setting at Ashbourne’s charming Lamplight Restaurant.
Amalfi White
18.0 km
Stylish modern European dining and elegant events venue with inclusive menus and a grand ballroom in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
Clock Bistro
20.4 km
A cozy bistro in Spondon blending English, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dubberley Delicious
21.6 km
Experience innovative British fine dining with seasonal menus and unique chef’s table events in the heart of Lichfield.
The Horns Inn, Slitting Mill
21.6 km
A warm, family-friendly British pub in Slitting Mill offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd
21.7 km
Discover Staffordshire’s first Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service in Lichfield’s historic heart.
Clifford Arms
22.1 km
A traditional Staffordshire pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Haywood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tubo Gift Shop
15.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and eco-friendly treasures at Tubo Gift Shop, Derby’s award-winning indie gem in the historic Cathedral Quarter.
Park Farm Shopping Centre
16.0 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Allestree, Derby, blending independent stores with essential services in a relaxed community setting.
Handmade Design
17.8 km
Discover unique, sustainable handmade gifts from UK artisans in the charming heart of Ashbourne’s Market Place.
Brewery Street Shopping Centre
19.8 km
A welcoming and convenient shopping hub in Rugeley offering diverse stores and easy parking in a clean, respectable environment.
Typically Unique
20.7 km
Discover beautiful, realistic gifts and exceptional service at Typically Unique, a beloved shop in the historic village of Aston-on-Trent.
England Pellegrino
22.8 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts in Belper’s historic England Pellegrino, nestled within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
World Duty Free - East Midlands Airport
24.5 km
Shop premium beauty, fragrances, spirits, and more at East Midlands Airport’s World Duty Free with convenient Reserve & Collect service.
Heart Of The Country Village
24.6 km
A charming rural shopping village near Lichfield with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and tranquil gardens for a relaxed day out.
Shop
26.0 km
Discover Derby's unique shop filled with local crafts and artisanal treasures, a must-visit for every tourist.
Shop&Museum
26.2 km
Discover railway heritage, a charming bookshop, and vintage café at Wirksworth Station on the scenic Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.
Whimsical. (Hippie Shop)
26.7 km
A vibrant sanctuary of crystals, incense, and bohemian spirit in the heart of Hednesford.
Homesense Stafford
28.5 km
Discover unique homewares and stylish décor treasures at Homesense Stafford, your destination for eclectic and affordable interior finds.
Queens Shopping Park
28.5 km
A bustling retail park in Stafford offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all shoppers.
Kim's Handmade Gift Shop
28.6 km
Explore Kim's Handmade Gift Shop in Long Eaton for unique handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Browse-a-while Ltd. House & Estate Clearance, Auction House, Antiques Buyer, Stafford & UK
28.8 km
Trusted Stafford auction house offering expert antiques buying, estate clearance, and collectibles in a convenient industrial estate setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Farmhouse at Mackworth
13.6 km
A stylish modern country pub and wedding venue in Derby offering rustic charm, crafted drinks, and versatile dining in a boutique setting.
The Last Post, Derby
15.3 km
A cozy micro pub in Derby offering a friendly vibe, excellent local ales, live music, and a quaint garden retreat.
The Bell & Castle
15.4 km
A lively and welcoming Irish-style pub in Derby offering great drinks, casual dining, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Mixing House
15.6 km
A lively Derby cocktail bar offering creative drinks, delicious tapas, and a vibrant social atmosphere on historic Friar Gate.
the Orange tree
15.7 km
A stylish and welcoming cocktail bar and events venue in Derby’s city centre, known for quality drinks and versatile social spaces.
The Distillery
15.7 km
Derby’s independent bar and restaurant with the largest spirit collection, innovative menus, and a lively atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
Blacksmiths Lounge
15.9 km
Lively cocktail bar and live music venue in Derby’s historic Sadler Gate, blending rustic charm with vibrant entertainment.
BlueNote
15.9 km
Derby’s late-night hotspot for live music and DJ-driven clubbing in the heart of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Cosy Club
15.9 km
Historic elegance and modern dining converge in Cosy Club Derby’s vibrant Royal Buildings setting.
Bunk
15.9 km
Lively Derby bar specializing in chicken wings and cocktails, perfect for casual evenings and vibrant nightlife.
The Hideout Derby
16.0 km
A vibrant Derby pub blending gaming fun, street food, and bottomless brunch in a lively, social atmosphere.
The Flowerpot
16.0 km
Derby’s iconic real ale pub and live music venue blending traditional brews, vibrant gigs, and authentic Gurkha curries in a lively setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Derby
16.0 km
Lively cocktail bar and casual dining venue in Derby city centre, perfect for drinks, socialising, and celebrations with stylish vibes and great deals.
Silk Mill Derby
16.1 km
Historic Derby pub blending British culinary heritage with craft ales and a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
Exeter Arms
16.3 km
A cozy, traditional Derby pub offering hearty meals, excellent ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the city center.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mosh
15.6 km
Three floors of diverse music and affordable drinks make Mosh a lively, student-friendly nightclub in Derby’s city center.
Together
15.8 km
Vibrant Afrobeat nightclub and cocktail bar in Derby’s city centre with affordable drinks and lively events.
Bar Fever Derby
15.8 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife at Fever Derby, a dynamic three-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and exclusive VIP areas.
MooMoo Nightclub Derby
15.9 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, premium booths, and affordable drinks at MooMoo Nightclub on St James's Street.
The Attic Adult Club
16.7 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ciros Nightclub
19.4 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
The Emporium
26.1 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
The Association Nightclub
28.6 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Regal Nightclub
28.6 km
Experience Ripley’s vibrant nightlife at The Regal Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere keep the party going late into the weekend.
The Loft
32.3 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Echo's Night Club
33.9 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
35.4 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
Base 95
35.4 km
Leek’s vibrant nightclub and bar at Market Place, Base 95 offers lively late-night entertainment for a diverse crowd every weekend.
Reflex - Hanley
37.5 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
TTL Nightclub
37.5 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife at TTL Nightclub, Hanley’s energetic hub for dance, music, and social nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
