Cowbright: Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle, now a family home, is the only private castle in England that has a queen buried there, that queen being Queen Katherine Parr (1512–1548), the last of Henry VIII's wives. She is buried inside the private church on the castle grounds.

The castle is located in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, a mere 12 miles from Stow. While still a personal residence, part of the castle has been made into a tourist attraction - mainly a museum showing the history of people who have owned it, notably Henry VIII and his sixth wife who re-married 2 months after his death and continued to live there until her death 7 days after the birth of her daughter.

The gardens are well maintained and much of the castle has been restored, though some parts are still broken down. Some believe it to be "haunted" by 14-15 spirits of former residents, Katherine being one of them. Lots of lore and lots of history in this very old landmark.

"Sudeley Castle & Gardens is unrivaled as a lived-in Cotswold castle. For heritage lovers, it is a jewel in England's crown, passing in and out of royal hands, with Richards III, Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I and Charles I all playing their part in its fascinating history."
Dr. David Starkey, historical Advisor to Sudeley Castle & Gardens

For more about Sudeley Castle, click here.

Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire

one of many bedrooms in the "museum" side

Unfortunately, you won't see a lot of photos of the inside of the castle here, as photos were not allowed inside. However, I took a few before I realized it, and a couple later in defiance! I just couldn't resist taking a quick snap of the queen's privy (shame on me).