Belvoir Castle

Belvoir Castle’s history dates back to the eleventh century. It is the ancestral home of the Duke of Rutland, where the family have lived in an unbroken line for almost a thousand years.

Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir like an illustration in a romantic fairy-tale. The name Belvoir – meaning ‘beautiful view’ in French, and pronounced today as ‘beaver’ – dates back to Norman times.

Four castles have stood on this spot since 1067, and it’s a pretty perfect location for a fortified castle. Looking over the battlements from the North Terrace of the current Castle, you can see for miles over the counties of Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire. And on a clear day, you can even see Lincoln Cathedral, some 30 miles to the North East.

Despite war, fire and family squabbles, Belvoir remains one of our country’s finest Regency castles. We are enormously privileged to call it home and enjoy sharing it with five children, many dogs and a few horses!

You are very welcome to explore the castle and estate. Throughout the year you can join our special tours including ‘what the butler saw’ and ‘above and below stairs’ – this gives you a glimpse into the life of the Manners family and what really happens beyond the walls.

For lovers of the outdoors, there are many new walks through our formal gardens on the castle terrace and into the woodland through the Japanese, Duchess’s and Hermit’s gardens.  The Duke’s Walk is three miles and allows you to take in all the gardens with stunning views.

It’s a very special place. Belvoir Castle isn’t just our ancestral home, it is also somewhere to come together and share celebrations. The castle and surrounding parkland play host to a range of country pursuits, corporate events and wedding parties, as well as featuring in films including the Da Vinci Code and Young Victoria. There’s truly something for everyone here.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we still do.

The Engine Yard at Belvoir Castle

The Engine Yard boasts the very best artisan shopping and country living, all in one place. You’re spoilt for choice with an abundance of beautiful shops in the unique Engine Yard Retail Village and original restaurants and bars. Children of all ages will be entertained for hours at the Adventure Playground at Belvoir Castle, featuring a ship, a giant timber castle, towers and much more. The Engine Yard celebrates the best of British all year round, with unforgettable events and pop-up markets for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re looking for a delightful day out in the East Midlands, it’s time to visit the Engine Yard at Belvoir Castle.