Bolsover Castle
Bolsover Castle is situated on the ruins of a castle built by the Peveril family shortly after the Norman Conquest. Originally the idea of Sir Charles Cavendish, who bought the property in 1612 but died before construction was complete, Bolsover Castle is largely the creation of his son, William Cavendish, the grandson of the infamous Bess of Hardwick. Like Penrhyn Castle in North Wales, Bolsover was designed to serve as a showpiece rather than a fortress.
The tower, known today as the 'Little Castle', was completed circa 1621, at which time William set about adding the stately rooms of the Terrace Range. Used as extra accommodation, the Terrace Range originally consisted of apartments and kitchens, but with a Royal visit planned – in 1634 William invited the Stuart court to a masque – the Terrace Range was extended to include a long gallery and an external staircase. Finally, William constructed the enormous stables, which included a forge, a tack and harness room, a large arena, and an upper viewing gallery.
During the Civil War, Sir William Cavendish took command of the Royalist troops defeated at Marston Moor in 1644. Although he survived, he was forced to flee into exile and his castle was surrendered to Parliamentarian troops. After the reformation of the Monarchy in 1660, William returned to England and his now ruinous castle. Despite financial hardship, he added a new hall and staterooms to the Terrace Range and, by the time of his death in 1676, the castle had been restored to good order. His successors, however, chose to live at Welbeck Abbey and in 1752 they stripped the lead from the roof of the Terrace Range at Bolsover Castle to repair their preferred residence. As a result, the 'Little Castle' and stables have survived the ravages of time whereas the Terrace Range is now largely a ruin.
Particularly worthy of note are the mythological and historical wall paintings and elaborately carved fireplaces in the 'Little Castle' and the Venus Garden with its viewing area and fountain with no less than 23 statues. The stables now contain a Discovery Centre, much appreciated by the youngest member of our entourage.
Accompanied By: Agnes and Robert Kardos
Date of Our Last Visit: September 2004