Activities
At Thornbury Castle there’s plenty of things to keep you entertained whilst staying with us. Not only do we have the extensive grounds to explore, not to mention the beautiful castle itself, but you can also immerse yourself in a variety of activities – some of which were enjoyed many centuries ago like that in the Tudor period. If you are interested in booking any of the activities then contact reception by calling or 01454 281182 or click on the links below.
Longbow Archery
After mastering the fundamentals of becoming an archer, with instruction on shooting a longbow from our Archery GB instructor, guests will be given the chance to participate in Tudor pastimes to see if they are able to match up to the archers of the period, while absorbing the history of Thornbury Castle and Tudor England’s famous longbows. *T&C's apply: Activity run by Battle Archery Bristol, and available at the weekend, subject to availability and weather dependent. Maximum of 6 persons per session. Must be booked 48-hours in advance. Full amount still payable if cancelled less than 24hrs before.
Axe Throwing
Accompanied by our qualified marshals, guests have the chance to throw hatchets and angels at a target in a safe environment in the picturesque grounds of the castle. Need more of a challenge? Our marshals will challenge guests to a ‘throw-off’ – who can score the most points? *T&C's apply: Activity run by Battle Archery Bristol, and available at the weekend, subject to availability and weather dependent. Maximum of 6 persons per session. Must be booked 48-hours in advance. Full amount still payable if cancelled less than 24hrs before.
History Tours
Built in the 1500s, Thornbury Castle has housed kings, queens and dukes over the centuries, and we are so pleased to offer the opportunity of a guided historical tour with a local historian of both the inside and outside of the Castle. The tour starts with our local historian weaving a detailed history of the castle and the people who have owned or lived here. Guests will then be accompanied around the castle interior where the historian will highlight different features which can be seen, but not necessarily noticed. The tour then concludes outside in the grounds and gardens, where the fascinating architecture is discussed. These tours are offered by the team at Thornbury & District Museum and available for hotel guests, subject to availability of the historians. Pre-booking is essential and tickets are £20pp.
Falconry
Falconry displays are a wonderful experience to enjoy while staying at the Castle. Demonstrations with birds of prey are accompanied with excellent entertaining, educational and informative commentary. The sport of hunting with falcons and hawks is believed to date back at least 2,000 years and to have originated in the Far East. As world trade grew, so falconry spread to Europe, where it quickly became a popular pastime of royals and aristocrats, and for many other people a way of putting fresh meat onto the table. Today it is hugely popular with people of all ages rediscovering the excitement and skills of working with birds of prey. Displays must be pre-booked in advance and prices range from £350.00 for an hour.
