Hartlebury Castle
About This Museum
What I adore about Hartlebury Castle is that it isn't just a museum in a historic building—it's literally housed within the sprawling wing of a bishop's palace that has been part of the landscape for centuries. You'll find yourself wandering through rooms where history feels immediate, surrounded by an eclectic and wonderfully personal collection. From delicate 18th-century porcelain to a child's beloved Victorian rocking horse, the exhibits feel like discovered treasures rather than static displays. It’s a place that beautifully blurs the line between a grand stately home and a cabinet of curiosities.
Collection Highlights
The costume collection is a real standout, with delicate lace and intricate beading you can examine up close. Don't miss the room dedicated to vintage toys, where a beautifully preserved wooden Noah's Ark sits alongside early 20th-century teddy bears. The craftsmanship in the local Worcestershire porcelain is simply stunning.
Visitor Information
Give yourself a good couple of hours to properly explore, and be sure to save some energy for a stroll through the lovely grounds afterwards. It's the kind of place that feels perfect for a slightly overcast British afternoon.
Architecture & Building
A magnificent red sandstone castle that served as the official residence of the Bishops of Worcester for over a thousand years, giving it a wonderfully layered, lived-in grandeur.
Contact & Location
Address: Hartlebury Castle, B4193, Charlton, Hartlebury, Wychavon, Worcestershire, England, DY11 7XX, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1299 250416
Website: Visit Website
