Berkeley Castle
Berkeley Castle is one of the most remarkable buildings in the Country and possibly the most outstanding example of Mediaeval domestic architecture in Britain English history has been lived out within the walls of the Castle and the most remarkable thing is that for nine centuries, the building, the Berkeley Family, the archives, the contents and the Estate have all survived together. The Castle is now the oldest building in the Country to be inhabited by the same family who built it. Scene of the brutal murder of Edward II in 1327 (visitors can see his cell and the nearby dungeon) and besieged by Cromwell’s troops in 1645, the Castle is steeped in history but twenty-four generations of Berkeleys 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. Part of the world-famous Berkeley silver is on display in the Dining Room. Many other rooms are equally interesting including the Great Hall where it is said that the Earl of Suffolk’s Jester, Dicky Pearce, died in mysterious circumstances in the 1720s, and his epitaph can be found on a tomb in the Churchyard. In addition to the fantastic guided tours provided by the experienced guides, visitors can stroll along the beautiful Elizabethan garden terraces with ornamental lily pond, Elizabeth I’s bowling green, and sweeping lawns. Also during the summer, visitors can enjoy the Tropical Butterfly House located in the Walled Garden…
