Location: Cholmondeley, Cheshire Map
Cholmondeley Castle, located in the civil parish of Cholmondeley near Malpas, Cheshire, England, is a striking Gothic Revival mansion that, despite its name, functions as a grand country house rather than a defensive fortress. Built in the early 19th century, it replaced earlier structures on a site occupied by the Cholmondeley family since the 12th century. Renowned for its romantic architecture, extensive ornamental gardens, and historical significance, the castle is a Grade II* listed building, with its park and gardens listed as Grade II in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.
The Cholmondeley family, one of Cheshire’s
prominent gentry, has held the estate since at least the 12th
century, with Robert de Cholmondeley recognized as the first Lord of
Cholmondeley around 1200. The name "Cholmondeley" (pronounced
"CHUM-lee") derives from an Old English forename, Ceolmund, meaning
"ship" and "protection." The family’s enduring presence is reflected
in their hereditary role as Lord Great Chamberlain, a position
currently held by David Cholmondeley, the 7th Marquess, responsible
for royal affairs in the Palace of Westminster.
The earliest
recorded structure was a timber-framed hall on a moated platform,
built in the 16th century. In 1571, Sir Hugh Cholmondeley rebuilt
this medieval home in the Elizabethan style, a timber-framed
structure surrounded by a moat, constructed by master carpenter
William Fawcomer. During the English Civil War (1641–1651), the
Cholmondeley family, staunch Royalists, faced significant
challenges. Positioned between the Royalist stronghold of Chester
and the Parliamentarian town of Nantwich, the hall was besieged
multiple times and surrendered in 1644, with estates sequestered and
rents diverted to parliamentary coffers.
In 1688, the
family’s fortunes improved when the 1st Earl of Cholmondeley
supported William of Orange during the Glorious Revolution. By 1701,
Hugh Cholmondeley, 1st Earl, commissioned William Smith of Warwick
to encase the hall in brick, adding classical features like giant
columns and balustraded parapets. In 1712, the Earl consulted John
Vanbrugh for a new design, though it was never executed. By 1722,
wrought-iron gates and railings by Robert Bakewell enclosed the
forecourt.
The 18th century saw neglect, with the estate
nearly bankrupted by the 3rd Earl. In 1770, George Cholmondeley, 4th
Earl and later 1st Marquess, inherited the property and opted to
demolish most of the old hall. Construction of the current
Gothic-style castle began in 1801, designed primarily by the
Marquess himself in collaboration with William Turner of Whitchurch,
Shropshire. After the Marquess’s death, architect Robert Smirke
extended the house between 1817 and 1819, adding turrets and towers
to complete its castellated appearance.
During World War II,
Cholmondeley Castle served multiple military purposes. From July to
October 1940, its grounds housed troops of the Czechoslovak
government-in-exile, and it later supported preparations for
Operation Anthropoid, the assassination attempt on Nazi official
Reinhard Heydrich. The castle also functioned as a Royal Naval
Auxiliary Hospital, treating servicemen with severe nervous
conditions.
Until her death in November 2015, the castle was
occupied by Lavinia, Dowager Marchioness of Cholmondeley, mother of
the current 7th Marquess, who resides at the family’s other seat,
Houghton Hall in Norfolk. The castle remains a private residence and
is not open to the public, but its gardens and parkland are
accessible during the summer season.
The gardens and parkland, covering approximately 240 hectares, are a
highlight of Cholmondeley Castle and listed as Grade II in the
Register of Historic Parks and Gardens since June 10, 1985. The
formal gardens were first laid out in the 17th century by George
London, but after 18th-century neglect, they were reorganized by
William Emes, who also designed the landscape park. In the 20th
century, Lavinia, Dowager Marchioness, transformed the gardens into
one of the north of England’s best-kept secrets, cultivating diverse
plant collections over 60 years.
Spanning 70 acres, the
gardens feature:
Temple Water Garden: The centerpiece, with a
lake housing two islands, a sandstone temple, a rotunda, and a
dolphin-carved bridge. It includes a rock garden, cascade, and
architectural entrances, framed by magnolias, rhododendrons, and
camellias.
Rose Garden: Recently redesigned with over 800
plantings, it features two contrasting “Rose Rooms” with vibrant
blooms and a fragrant ambiance.
Lavinia Walk: A double herbaceous
border showcasing seasonal color and botanical diversity.
Silver
Garden: A reimagined terrace garden with silver foliage, salvia, and
eryngium spikes for textural contrast.
Arboretum and Tower Hill:
Ornamental woodlands with panoramic views of the Cheshire
countryside, including glimpses of four castles and an Iron Age
fort.
Lakeside and Nature Trails: Paths around lakes and
woodlands, rich with daffodils in spring and vivid autumn foliage.
The parkland, originally designed in the late 17th century, includes
500 acres with two lakes, mixed woodlands (e.g., Moss Wood, Long
Plantation), and farmland supporting rare-breed cattle, sheep, and
goats, such as longhorn cattle. The gardens participate in the
National Garden Scheme, offering plants for sale and hosting events
like Shakespeare performances, jazz evenings, and vintage car
rallies.
Cholmondeley Castle remains a well-maintained private residence,
though inaccessible to the public. The gardens and parkland, open
from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays, and bank
holidays, are the primary visitor attraction. The estate is managed
by the Cholmondeley family, with the 7th Marquess overseeing its
legacy. The gardens are meticulously cared for, with ongoing
projects like the Rose Garden’s redesign ensuring their vibrancy.
Challenges include uneven terrain, shallow drops, tree roots,
and water hazards, requiring sensible footwear and supervision for
children. Some areas are restricted for wheelchair access, but staff
assistance is available. The estate’s infrastructure, including the
farm shop, café, and converted lodges (e.g., one used as a holiday
cottage), supports visitor amenities.
Cholmondeley Castle is a cultural and historical landmark in
Cheshire, embodying the region’s aristocratic heritage and Gothic
Revival aesthetics. Its gardens, described as a “hidden gem,”
attract horticulture enthusiasts, families, and event-goers. The
estate hosts diverse events, including Deva Fest, equestrian
competitions, and weddings, leveraging its picturesque setting. The
Cholmondeley Arms, a converted schoolhouse on the A49, and the
Castle Farm Shop enhance local tourism.
The castle’s World
War II role, particularly its connection to the Czechoslovak forces
and Operation Anthropoid, adds a layer of international
significance. Personal anecdotes, such as a visitor recalling their
father’s time as a Czechoslovak soldier stationed there, highlight
its emotional resonance. The estate’s rare-breed farm, children’s
play areas (e.g., The Den with natural features and a bug hotel),
and wildlife (e.g., koi carp, llamas, African pygmy goats) make it
family-friendly.
Visiting Cholmondeley Castle Gardens is a rewarding experience,
particularly for those interested in horticulture, history, or
leisurely outdoor activities. Key details include:
Access:
Located at SY14 8AH, off the A49 near the Cholmondeley Arms pub. The
What3Words location is “relatives.urban.solution.” Parking is
available, but vehicles share routes, so caution is advised.
Tickets: A £50 Cholmondeley Gardens Membership offers unlimited
access on open days (excluding certain events). Historic Houses
Association members and RHS members (in May and September) enter
free with valid cards. Blue Light discounts and Gardeners World
2-for-1 cards are accepted.
Facilities: The Tea Room, open 11
a.m. to 5 p.m., serves specialist teas, homemade cakes, and light
lunches, catering to dietary needs. The Castle Farm Shop sells
estate produce and includes a post office. Picnic spots, a plant
shop, and children’s play areas enhance the experience.
Activities: Visitors can explore the Temple Water Garden, Rose
Garden, and nature trails, ideal for walks or photography. The Den
and traditional play areas entertain children, while events like
vintage car rallies or outdoor Shakespeare performances add variety.
Best Times: Early spring for bulbs, late spring for rhododendrons,
summer for flowers, and autumn for tree colors.
Tripadvisor
reviews praise the gardens’ beauty and the farm shop’s quality, with
highlights like the “stunning” azaleas and delicious brunch bagels.
Some visitors inquire about insect repellent due to gnats and horse
flies, recommending general repellents. The gardens’ cascading
layout and castle backdrop create a serene, photogenic setting,
though the castle’s closure to the public may disappoint some.
Preparation: Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and bring insect
repellent in warmer months. A camera is ideal for capturing the
gardens and castle exterior.
Planning: Check opening days and
event schedules at www.cholmondeleycastle.com. Combine a visit with
nearby attractions like Beeston Castle or Nantwich, both within 11.5
miles.
Experience: Opt for a guided group tour for deeper
insights, or enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake. Families should
explore The Den for creative play.
Accessibility: Request staff
assistance for mobility needs, as some paths are challenging. Keep
dogs on leads and supervise children near water hazards.