Rockingham Castle

Address: Rockingham, Market Harborough LE16 8TH, England

Contact Numbers:

Tel: 44 01536 770240

Fax: 44 01536 771692

Website: http://www.rockinghamcastle.com/

Rockingham castle is situated in Market Harborough Leicestershire, which is just a mile north of Corby town centre so although tehnically it's not in Northamptonshire it is just on the outskirts.

It was first built primarily of Sandstone in the 11th century as ordered by William the conquerer, the raised location above the Welland Valley provided an excellent vantage point for battle and to fortify the defences.

The twin towers entrance was erected in 1270 after Henry III wanted to strengthen the castle from potential attackers and unwanted visitors.

In the 15th century the castle became somewhat neglected and in desperate need of repair, in 1485 Edward Watson obliged by purchasing the castle and building a Tudor house with accompanying gardens in it's place, which is very much in keeping with how the castle and grounds are preserved today.

As of today the Saunders Watson family are the private residents of the castle having restored it to it's former glory and have resided here for some 450 years.

The Watson family friend Charles Dickens is a regular past visitor to the castle, his character Chesney Wold was inspired by his visits here in his novel Bleak House.

Rockingham castle was also used as the location for the BBC Civil War series By The Sword Divided and the Val Kilmer film Top Secret!

Opening Times: 12-5pm Easter through to May 31st only open Sundays & Bank Holiday Mondays, June - September open Tuesday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays

Complementary tours on the history of the castle are on offer at 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30 every open day.

Prices: If you would like to view the house and the gardens it is £8.50 for adults, £7.50 for seniors, £5 for children, family (2+2) is £22

If you prefer just to view the grounds which include the gardens, Salvin's Tower, gift shop and tea room that's £5 for adults or children

Group Guided Tours & Pricing : If you are thinking of visiting within a group (minimum of 20) and going for a private guided tour it is required that you book in advance, giving as much notice as possible. Within groups adults are £7.50 if you don't want a tour and £9.50 for a private guided tour, children are £4.25

Yeary Events: Rover P5 & P5B Club Annual Rally 22nd August 2010
Price includes the event and access to the castle: Adults £8.50, Seniors £7.50, Children £5 & Family ticket £22

Over 100 classic cars, boasts one of the largest colection of these cars in the World!

Rockingham Fair 25th September 2010 - 26th September 2010
Adults £6, Concessions £5, Children £3 Family £15

The fair plays host to some of the country's best and unique food, drink and craft experts where you can sample and purchase the products while watching the cookery demos on offer, view the bird of prey exhibitions and visit the farm.

Christmas at Rockingham Castle 22nd November 2010 - 26th November 2010
Castle Tour: Adults £6 Children £2.50

During this festive period the castle reverts back to the Victorian age with staff are dressed in Victorian costumes the castle is draped with Christmas decorations, brightly lit trees, fires and food is prepared for lunch on the Great Hall table. You are also free to buy festive gifts in the shop or sample the mince pies and food in the restaurant.

Weddings: Rockkingham Castle offer a truly bespoke package for your wedding and/or reception (max of 100 guests) they also offer a nearby church service should you wish. The grounds offer the perfect rural backdrop for your wedding photographs. You get exclusive hire of the castle and grounds for the day included and are free to choose between wedding, reception, dining, marquee and dancing/recreational services.

Hospitality & Activities Available: Full dining and meeting/business room service available from 20 to 90 guests. Prices start at £45 per person for hot drinks throughout the day, and a 2 course lunch.

Directions & Map : For detailed directions use the instructions within our maps pages.

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