An enchanting summer at Sudeley Castle

From magical festivals and outdoor theatre, to a fun-filled day out for the whole family to enjoy, Sudeley Castle & Gardens is hosting an array of enchanting events this summer.

A collage of images of Falconry and children at Sudeley Castle.

Visitors to Sudeley Castle & Gardens can savour all the usual joys of a family day out amongst the beautiful castle and grounds, with the added offer of an array of extra special events and activities this summer.

Summer 2024 boasts events running regularly throughout the season and include Sudeley’s 70’s Sundays, a dog friendly day, Knight School and Falconry at the Castle. Visitors can enjoy 70’s vibes as part of Lady Ashcombe’s milestone 50^th anniversary year. Iconic films, cars and games that took popular culture by storm in the 70’s when she first arrived at the castle, will be brought to life every Sunday (from 28^th July – 1^st September, included with regular admission). Characters from the likes of Dr Who, Star Wars and Scooby Doo will be found hanging out around the castle, as well as smile-inducing 3-wheel bubble cars, giant games on the Mulberry Lawn, making it a fun day out for the whole family.

A collage of images of children dressed as princesses and knights at the Knight School.

Young knights from across the Kingdom are invited to join Sudeley Castle’s very own Knight School! Children of all ages are encouraged to dress-up and join in Princess and Knight themed activities and adventures that lie in store every Wednesday and Thursday throughout the school holidays, all against the backdrop of a 1,000-year-old Castle. Running from 24^th July – 29^th August. Close encounters with falcons, owls and birds of prey are also available for nature loving visitors, with Falconry at the Castle, taking place every Tuesday & Thursday from 23^rd July – 29^th August, all included within regular admission.

Ticketed events this summer include the enchanting Fantasy Forest Festival, Wild Arts Opera and the Shakespeare’s Outdoor Theatre. Taking place from July 19^th – 21^st, fantasy fans from every genre imaginable will enjoy a weekend of music, entertainment, and wonder. Join thousands of fantasy fans; from fairies, pirates, Vikings, storm troopers, knights and elves for this unique and popular festival held annually in the castle grounds.

Fans of the opera can enjoy a love story built around favourite opera classics, while relaxing and enjoying a picnic on the lawn. Arranged into 75 minutes of musical delight, sung by the operatic stars of tomorrow and played by a string quintet of top chamber musicians. Wild Arts Opera is taking place on 24^th July.

A collage of images of previous Fantasy Forest events.

Taking place on 18^th August, Shakespeare’s most quoted comedy As You Like It will be performed against the spectacular backdrop of the Richard III ruins on the Mulberry Lawn. The enchanting performance of As You Like It within the beautifully historic Outdoor Theatre is promised to stick with you forever and a day.

Tickets for all events are now available to purchase on the Sudeley Castle & Gardens website.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the ever-popular adventure playground will of course be open all summer long for children to enjoy during their visit. Visitors can top off their trip by indulging in a delicious lunch, cool down with an ice-cream or devour an indulgent Cream Tea from the brand-new food menu in the beautifully upgraded Castle Coach House and Pavilion Cafe.

Spend your summer days amongst the beautiful settings of Sudeley Castle and Gardens. For more information on what’s on this summer at Sudeley, and to buy tickets, please visit the Sudeley Castle website.

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For more unmissable events in Cheltenham check out our helpful guide - Cheltenham Festivals & Major Events Guide