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The Castle is steeped in nearly 1000 years of British history and is best known as the scene of the brutal murder of Edward II in 1327 and for being besieged by Cromwell’s troops in 1645. Over 24 generations of Berkeley’s have gradually transformed a Norman fortress into the lovely home it is today.
The state apartments contain magnificent collections of furniture, rare paintings by primarily English and Dutch masters, and tapestries. Some of the world famous Berkeley silver is on display in the Dining Room and many other rooms including the Great Hall, Morning Room and kitchens are available to view.
The Castle is open to visitors from April – October, on selected days, and is surrounded by lovely terraced Elizabethan Gardens with a lily pond, Elizabeth I’s bowling green and sweeping lawns. During June, July and August the tour also includes the tropical Butterfly House located in the Walled Garden, which is a tranquil environment for over twenty-five different species of tropical butterflies.
The Tea Room serves lovely cream teas with homemade scones, in fact all of the cakes are homemade by the Tea Room staff. Visitors can join a guided tour of the Castle with one of the experienced Tour Guide which last just over an hour, depending on the number of questions asked!