Have you ever visited Sudeley Castle? If you haven’t, then you are truly missing out on one of the most beautiful places to see, and you really need to make the time to go.
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds in a village called Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle is an utterly breathtaking place to visit with so much history. It was built in the 15th century and, since then, has been the home to numerous royals, including Katherine Parr (yes, the one married to Henry VIII).
The current owner, Lady Ashcombe, is a phenomenal lady, and we had the pleasure of meeting her today with her daughter Mollie. Lady Ashcombe has dedicated her whole life to preserving the rich history of the castle, making it accessible to the public, while also being a champion for animal welfare, and this shines through when you visit Sudeley.
Lady Ashcombe has been working on innovative projects, such as the installation of coexistence and Sudeleys Animal Ark. Opportunities to educate visitors on important issues such as climate change, poaching, and deforestation, all done through an incredibly clever walk through experience.
Follow the paths to different sections where you can see animals created from natural materials such as fern and bark. And read about the good (and also bad news) about what’s happening within their countries.
Find out the good news regarding pandas.
And the bad news regarding orangutans and the effects of deforestation.
The scenes are great for young children and the selfie stations are cleverly thought out, whilst the educational boards are great for older children and adults, to learn more.
Lady Ashcombe told us about how in India, the local elephants are living in harmony in a village. Rural people have learnt how to live amongst the elephants, protecting their gardens, crops and homes by circling them with chilli’s and garlic – two crops that elephants stay clear of. A great example of coexistence.
Saturday, 3rd June, saw the launch of their new Augmented Reality experience. Download the app to have the opportunity to see AR animals roaming around the grounds with you, and you can take photos that are downloadable to your phone.
Once you have taken your photo, you have the opportunity to answer a quiz question, followed by an infographic page. A chance to learn some more about the Augmented Reality animal that you have just had your photo taken with.
See if you can find all the animals around the grounds to complete the trail – then collect your award from the gift shop at the end.
It is such a clever idea to keep children entertained all the way around the most beautiful grounds. The section to take a picture of a turtle is amazing! So pretty!
Lady Ashcombe has created a unique and inspiring landmark that I have fallen totally in love with, and I know that you will, too.
We finished our trip with a wonderful afternoon tea in the orangery with the most delightful food. Fresh scones to die for and moreish macaroons.
And a play in the castle adventure playground which was great for all ages.
We can’t wait to return again very soon.
Sudeley Castle has a great summer lineup of events, including;
Fantasy Forest – 14-16th July
Tudors VS Victorians – 25th July – 31st Aug
Outdoor Theatre, Twelfth Night- 27th July
Katherine Parr Day – 3rd Sept
For more details of this wonderful place, check out the website here; https://sudeleycastle.co.uk/
Disclaimer: I was invited along today to the launch event of Sudeley’s Animal Ark by Encore PR. All thoughts and opinions are entirely our own.