We chat to Sudeley Castle tour guide Jonathan Harris-Gibbins to find out about working in the historic castle and the best things for groups to discover.
How long have you been a guide at Sudeley Castle?
Three years. I wasn’t really looking for a job, but I wanted something interesting to do and the role suited me perfectly. The variety keeps it fresh too, from castle tours to behind-the-scenes experiences in the parts still occupied by Lady Ashcombe and her family.
Why is Sudeley so popular with visitors?
It’s different. The history is fascinating, but it’s also full of artefacts so visitors can easily spend a full day here. There’s a sense of intimacy because you’re actually walking around somebody’s private home.
What surprises visitors most?
How close they can get to the exhibits, very little is roped off. It’s also a bit eccentric and quirky. For example, people always ask why we have wooden elephants in the middle of a medieval castle.
What’s your favourite thing about Sudeley?
It’s quirky, but in a good way. It’s my colleagues who make it – they’re incredibly knowledgeable. We also get visitors from all over the world – we get a lot of Americans because we’ve got an American owner and we’re based in the Cotswolds.
If somebody hasn’t been to Sudeley before, how would you describe it in one sentence?
Intimate, individual, and packed full of treasures and history.
Despite being in rural Gloucestershire, Sudeley has some uncanny connections with the big people of British history. It has some very surprising connections with the likes of Henry VIII, Richard III, Charles I etc. And our current owner, Lady Ashcombe, is related by marriage to Queen Camilla.
Why are guides so important?
A good guide brings history to life. It’s about helping visitors feel entertained as well as informed and making the stories memorable.
What’s new for groups at Sudeley?
We have expanded our programme of events, including history happenings linked to figures such as Katherine Parr, who is buried at Sudeley, guest speakers and themed weekends.
Sudeley Castle & Gardens holds more than 1,000 years of English history and heritage and is known as the final resting place of Henry VIII’s surviving wife, Katherine Parr.
Sudeley Castle is now the home of Elizabeth, Lady Ashcombe, and her son, daughter and their families. The family is committed to the continued preservation of the castle, its treasures and the ongoing restoration and regeneration of the gardens.
Groups can access discounted rates to the grounds along with free parking and cafe vouchers.
For more information about Sudeley Castle, visit sudeleycastle.co.uk.
