Bolsover Castle

Sometimes described as a 17th-century 'playboy's mansion', Bolsover is more a lavish place of entertainment than a true castle. Today you can explore the home and social centre of William Cavendish, 1st Duke of Newcastle, including the riding house where he pioneered the art of dressage in England. As well as some of the finest and best-preserved wall paintings in England, the castle boasts broad views over rural Derbyshire from the terrace and recreated wall walk. Dogs on leads welcome in the grounds only. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed in the Little Castle or at the cavalier horsemanship displays. Parking: There are disabled and family parking spaces 50m from the entrance. There's additional (free) parking available in Bolsover itself.