Hartlebury Castle
The home of successive Bishops of Worcester for well over 1,000 years.
Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7XZ
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Bike storage facilities
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Cafe / restaurant
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Facilities for children
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Free parking
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Mostly wheelchair accessible
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Shop
For full details about access across the site, please visit our website to download our Accessibility Guide, call 01299 250416, or email [email protected]
Hartlebury Castle has a fascinating history, with many intriguing stories to tell…
First given to Bishop Aelhun in 855AD, the Castle was the home of the Bishops of Worcester until 2007. Three of its bishops became saints, two were burned at the stake, and one became the Pope who refused Henry VIII his divorce. With an acting butler, recuperating soldiers and inspirational wives, there are many fascinating characters who have crossed Hartlebury Castle’s doors. Discover their amazing stories, from everyday life to events inextricably linked with the history of the nation.
Three great experiences in one:
Today the Castle offers three great experiences in one ticket. Discover the lives of those who lived and worked at Hartlebury Castle in the Bishop’s Palace, explore the fascinating history of the county in Worcestershire County Museum, and relax with a peaceful stroll around grounds taking in the wildlife and views across the moat. With hands-on displays and enthralling themes, Hartlebury Castle is a great day out to enjoy with friends and family.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Opening Times
Hartlebury Castle is open from 1st February to 23rd December each year. During this season, opening hours are:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10am – 5pm
- Weekends & Bank Holidays: 11am – 5pm
The castle is closed outside this season. Visitors are advised to check for partial closure dates before visiting.
Areas & Facilities
Worcestershire County Museum is open during main site hours (1st February – 23rd December). The Travel & Transport Gallery within the museum is currently closed indefinitely for essential maintenance.
Bishop's Palace is open during main site hours, except for Saturday 27th June and Sunday 28th June 2026, when it will be closed due to the Belgian Beer Bash and Jungle Book events. During these closure dates, the Bishop's Palace and Grounds will not be accessible, though the Worcestershire County Museum will remain open at a reduced entry fee.
Castle Grounds and Perimeter Walk are open during main site hours, with the same closure on 27th–28th June 2026. Outdoor games and space hoppers are available during the Spring and Summer season. The Carriage Circle hosts open air events in summer, including theatre, concerts and car shows.
Adventure Playground is open during main site hours as part of the Grounds, with level access available.
Summer Activities
Two special activities are running from Tuesday 21st July to Thursday 27th August 2026 during normal opening hours:
- The Battle Plan Mystery Trail: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Civil War Summer Crafts: 10:30am – 4:00pm
Getting Here
By Bus: The 303 Diamond Bus Service operates Monday to Saturday, with the last bus towards Worcester at 17:46 and the last bus towards Kidderminster at 19:12. The service does not operate on Sundays.
By Train: Hourly trains serve Hartlebury Train Station from Birmingham and Worcester. Services run less frequently on Sundays.
Volunteer Opportunities
Hartlebury Castle welcomes volunteers on an ongoing basis. Opportunities are flexible, ranging from a few hours a week or month to one-off event days.
Historic House members visit free.
Whole Site Admission
Enjoy a visit around all of Hartlebury Castle, including the Bishop’s Palace, Worcestershire County Museum and Castle Grounds.
- Adult £13.25
- Concession (over 60s & Students) £11.50
- Child (aged 5-16) £7.50
- Under 5s Free
- Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) £35.00
Grounds & Gardens Admission
Enjoy a walk around the grounds as you follow the nature trail and enjoy stunning views of the Castle. Please be aware these tickets are not available on Bank Holiday and event days unless otherwise stated.
- Adult £5.75
- Concession (over 60s & Students) £5.25
- Child (aged 5-16) £4
- Under 5s Free
- Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) £15.00
For full details about access across the site, please visit our website to download our Accessibility Guide, call 01299 250416, or email [email protected]
Getting here
Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7XZ
Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7XZ
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