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Ashby de la Zouch Castle
Ashby Castle forms the backdrop to the famous jousting scenes in Sir Walter Scott's classic novel of 1819, Ivanhoe. Now a ruin, the castle began as a manor house in the 12th century. It only achieved castle status in the 15th century, by which time the hall and buttery had been enlarged, with a solar to the east and a large integral kitchen added to the west.
Between 1474 and his execution by Richard III in 1483, Edward IV's Chamberlain Lord Hastings added the chapel and the impressive keep-like Hastings Tower - a castle within a castle. Visitors can climb the 24 metre (78 feet) high tower, which offers fine views. Later the castle hosted many royal visitors, including Henry VII, Mary Queen of Scots, James I and Charles I.
A great place to picnic.
key
Prices
2010 prices
Adults £4.20; children £2.10 (under 5s free); concessions £3.60; family ticket (2 adults 3 children) £10.50. English Heritage members free. 15% discount for groups of 11 or more.
Opening details
| Season Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Wed 1 Sep 2010 - Mon 1 Nov 2010 | Mon 10:00 to 17:00 | Thu - Sun 10:00 to 17:00 |
| Tue 2 Nov 2010 - Thu 31 Mar 2011 | Mon 10:00 to 16:00 | Thu - Sun 10:00 to 16:00 |
| Notes | Closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan. Please note last entry is 30 minutes before closing time. |
Contact
English HeritageTel: 01530 413343
www.english-heritage.org.ukNearby
Local AccommodationVenue
Ashby de la Zouch CastleSouth Street, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 1BR
Map reference: SK 361166
Ashby de la Zouch Castle is situated in the town centre and can be accessed from South Street. Follow brown tourist signs for castle.
Parking is free for people with disabilities, otherwise non-English Heritage parking is available and chargeable nearby.
Accessible by Public Transport : 10 miles from Loughborough station
Access for wheelchair users is to ground only. Loop system available for audio tour.
Treasures Unlocked - Ashby
