The historic Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe has a packed programme of events taking place throughout the summer holidays, transporting visitors back to Tudor times.
With the 1,000-year-old castle offering enchanting backdrops for everything from falconry experiences to outdoor opera shows, SoGlos rounds up the highlights from its summer events programme...
'A King's Return' at Sudeley Castle
Inviting visitors to step back in time and follow in the footsteps of royalty, 'A King's Return' sees historical re-enactors recreate King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn's visit to Sudeley Castle on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July 2025.
Engage in lively conversation with characters including the king and queen, Thomas Cromwell and the ladies of the royal court; enjoy Tudor dancing and roaming performances around the grounds; and even listen to Henry VIII's favourite songs with special concert 'The Kinge's Musicke' taking place in the chapel, featuring music from his own songbook dating back to 1510.
Knight School at Sudeley Castle
Every Wednesday and Thursday throughout the school holidays, from Wednesday 23 July until Thursday 28 August 2025, little squires are invited to join Sudeley Castle's Knight School to prove their chivalry!
Kids from across the kingdom are encouraged to dress up for their day out, as they take on a series of skill challenges including sword fighting, archery and jousting, to be rewarded with an official knighthood and a certificate to take home — with all activities included within the price of admission.
Falconry at Sudeley Castle
Get up close to majestic birds of prey, with falconry experiences every Tuesday and Friday included with the price of admission. Ideal for nature lovers of all ages, the sessions are run by expert falconers in traditional Tudor costume from Tuesday 22 July until Friday 29 August 2025.
Visitors can watch falcons, eagles and owls in flight, swooping, diving and showing off their acrobatic skills — and even have the birds land on them, making for a fantastic photo opportunity — all while learning about this historic sport, including Henry VIII's personal passion for falconry!
Outdoor theatre at Sudeley Castle
Wild Arts Opera comes to Sudeley Castle on Tuesday 29 July 2025, with an alfresco performance of opera classics from Handel, Mozart, Rossini, Sondheim and more, accompanied by a string quartet. Ideal for anyone who's never experienced opera before, this Royal Opera House-level show tells an epic love story through music in a relaxed and accessible way. Gates open at 5pm for picnics on the lawn and tickets cost from £40 for adults and £10 for under 18s, with parking included.
Then on Sunday 10 August 2025, The Duke's Theatre Company brings a 'dynamic reimagining' of Shakespeare's iconic Macbeth to the castle. Set against the imposing backdrop of the Richard III ruins on Mulberry Lawn, watch the characters unravel in a show which is being touted as 'a new era of open-air summer touring' from The Duke's. Tickets cost £20 for adults and £18.50 for under 16s, plus booking fee.
For more information, or to book tickets, visit sudeleycastle.co.uk/events.
