In Accommodation, Food and Drink, Afternoon tea, Attractions, History

A right royal celebration is on the horizon! With the King’s coronation just around the corner, the flags and bunting are raised, ready for a weekend of celebrations, so why not join in the festivities celebrating this historic event here in the Cotswolds or learn more about our royal connections. 
 


Coronation stays
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British royal history with a coronation stay at The Lygon Arms in Broadway or live like Royalty in the 16th century Thornbury Castle with its sumptuous four-poster beds. The Henry VIII Suite once played host to King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn and overlooks the oldest Tudor gardens in England. 

Thornbury Castle


Royal connections
Blenheim Palace is currently celebrating its centuries-old relationship with the Royal Family in a major new exhibition running until 30 July with an exhibition of previously unseen artefacts, photo albums, robes, crowns and coronets. A crown once worn by Queen Anne is on public display for the first time during this event.

Crown worn by Queen Anne on display at Blenheim Palace


Berkeley Castle   
Given to the Berkeley family by Henry II in 1153, 27 generations have lived, and still live, in this unique castle. Their lives have intertwined with royalty. Follow in the footsteps of Edward II, Henry VIII and Elizabeth I as you look down from the wooden gallery or across the extensive gardens. On 8 May travel back in time and meet the merry monarch King Charles II for music and dancing. 

Berkeley Castle


Highgrove Gardens  

His Majesty King Charles III’s love of nature is well-known and the gardens that surround Highgrove are inspirational. From the atmospheric stumpery to the wildflower garden, glimpses of the King’s life and input are evident. Book a garden tour followed by tea and scones (and perhaps a glass of champagne!) in the Orchard Room, and take home a jar of organic whisky marmalade or a garden calendar to remind you of your visit.

Highgrove Gardens


Tetbury    
Just down the road from Highgrove is the ancient town of Tetbury - the southern gateway to the Cotswolds. Look out for the emblem of the then Prince of Wales’ feathers, as many local businesses hold a royal warrant. Amongst the individual boutiques and cafes is the Highgrove shop – another opportunity to stock up on goodies with a regal flavour.

Tetbury


Gloucester Cathedral 
Throughout May, to coincide with the Coronation, Gloucester Cathedral will be running ‘Royal Connections Guided Tours’. These tours will shine a light on the Cathedral’s many royal links throughout history, including being the burial place of King Edward II and the Coronation place of King Henry III in 1216. 

Gloucester Cathedral


Raise a glass
Afternoon tea is a classic British tradition said to have been introduced to Britain by the 7th Duchess of Bedfordshire, a close friend of Queen Victoria. With many of the hotels across the Cotswolds offering special coronation packages, you can raise a royal toast in the Great Hall at Ellenborough Park with a stay and sumptuous champagne afternoon tea, sip tea in the vaulted cellar at Kings Head Cirencester or join in the garden party at the Greenway hotel on 8 May.

Afternoon tea at the Greenway Hotel


There are lots of local coronation community events including big lunches happening across the region including in Cheltenham, Cirencester, Broadway & Witney, to highlight just a few. Find more coronation events.


For more exciting events, check out what’s on in the Cotswolds.

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