Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, England, has been in the family of the Dukes of Rutland for over 1,000 years. Its present-day structure was primarily built in the 1800s by the architect James Wyatt.

  • Why is the castle named "Belvoir"?
    • The castle, perched at the top of a hill, was given the French name Belvoir, which means beautiful view.
  • What kind of artwork and decor can visitors see at Belvoir Castle?
    • The castle is decorated with art and décor commissioned mainly by the 5th Duke and Duchess in the early 1800s and includes many of their own family heirlooms.
  • Which notable artworks are on display at Belvoir Castle?
    • Among them are Old Masters paintings collected by the 3rd Duke, and portraits, busts, and paintings collected by the 4th Duke. Stunning décor and architectural elements are showcased throughout the castle.
  • What is unique about the Guard Room at Belvoir Castle?
    • The Guard Room was designed in the Gothic Revival style, and guests enter the castle through a hall lined with 18th-century Brown Bess flintlock muskets.
  • What are the King's Rooms?
    • The King’s Rooms are a collection of 3 rooms designed for King George IV, a personal friend of the Duke of Rutland, in the 1800s.
  • What is special about the Elizabeth Salon?
    • The Elizabeth Salon was the first room in England decorated in the Louis XIV style. Several design elements came directly from Paris. It was designed after the death of Duchess Elizabeth, wife of the 5th Duke, and reflects the Duke’s longing to design a room his wife would have loved.
  • What can visitors expect from the formal gardens?
    • The formal gardens on-site offer visitors more than 2 hours’ worth of walking paths. They include a Japanese woodland, the 4-acre Duchess Garden rediscovered in the 1970s, the 7-acre Hermit’s Garden, and several sculptures representing the seasons by the artist Caius Gabriel Cibber.
  • When was the original Belvoir Castle built?
    • The original Belvoir Castle was built in 1067 on land given to Robert de Tedoni in 1066 by William the Conqueror. De Tedoni was one of William’s Norman barons and fought for him in the Battle of Hastings.
  • Why was Belvoir Castle strategically important?
    • The castle crowns a hill in Leicestershire overlooking the Vale of Belvoir, serving as an excellent lookout for its residents.
  • What happened to Belvoir Castle after the Wars of the Roses?
    • Four hundred years on, after the Wars of the Roses in 1464, the castle was in ruins and was rebuilt 60 years later as a larger structure with a central garden. This second incarnation was destroyed in 1649 during the Civil War.
  • When was the current Belvoir Castle constructed?
    • Construction began on the third and present structure in 1654. This time, the castle was designed as a family home with no utility for war. The present-day structure was finished in the 1800s as a home for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland.
  • When are guided tours of Belvoir Castle available?
    • Ninety-minute guided tours of the castle are available on select days from March through October. On some days, tours of the private quarters are also available.
  • Are group tours available?
    • Tours for groups of 20 or more are offered by appointment. These full-day experiences include either a guided tour of the castle and gardens or an immersive garden experience highlighting the work of landscape architect Lancelot “Capability” Brown.
  • What is special about the gardens at Belvoir Castle?
    • The gardens were restored to match Capability Brown’s original plans from 1780, rediscovered after being thought lost forever due to fire. The restoration involved clearing over 500 acres of land during a 2-year project.
  • Does the castle host artists?
    • The castle manages an artist in residence program and hosts a sculptor, a poet, a video artist, and painters. Their work can be seen throughout the castle and grounds.
  • What dining options are available at Belvoir Castle?
    • There is a tea room on-site offering formal tea or more casual sandwiches and snacks. Additionally, the Engine Yard is being renovated to host various retail shops, a spa, and bicycle rentals.
  • What events does Belvoir Castle host?
    • The grounds host several events, including the Tough Mudder obstacle race series, the Equinox 24 (a 24-hour all-terrain race), and the Fireworks Championships. The King at the Castle concert commemorates the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ death and includes castle access, a gourmet buffet, and tribute performances.
  • Are there outdoor activities available at Belvoir Castle?
    • The grounds offer numerous hunting events open to the public, including pheasant, duck, and partridge shoots. Day tickets for fishing at the two estate lakes and hunting and equestrian packages, including overnight stays at the castle, are also available.

Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, NG32 1PE, United Kingdom, Phone: 44-14-76-87-10-01

Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and lush grounds. The Manners Arms – Charming country inn located nearby in Knipton. Explore Belvoir Castle Gardens – Discover beautiful floral displays and peaceful walking paths.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather ideal for outdoor events and castle tours. Belvoir Estate Lodges – Stylish accommodations situated within the castle grounds. Attend outdoor events and concerts – Enjoy seasonal festivals hosted at the castle.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and fewer visitors. Chequers Inn – Historic inn offering cozy stays in Woolsthorpe by Belvoir. Take a guided castle tour – Experience the castle’s history amidst stunning autumn scenery.
Winter (December-February) – Cooler temperatures, festive events, and cozy atmosphere. Allington Manor – Elegant bed-and-breakfast in nearby Allington. Visit the Christmas Market at Belvoir Castle – Enjoy festive shopping, seasonal treats, and holiday spirit.

Plan Your Trip