Bradgate Park Castle, located in Leicestershire, England, is a significant historical site with a rich history dating back to the eleventh century. The park, which spans over 850 acres, was originally part of the Manor of Groby and was given to Hugh de Grentmesnil, a loyal companion of William the Conqueror.
The Grey Family’s Rise to Power
The park’s history is closely tied to the Grey family, who became owners of the estate in the fifteenth century. The family’s fortunes rose significantly when the younger son of Reginald Grey, 3rd Baron Grey de Ruthyn, married Elizabeth Ferrers, the heiress of the estate. Their son, John Grey, made an even more advantageous match by marrying Elizabeth Woodville of Grafton in Northamptonshire. Elizabeth later married King Edward IV, transforming the family’s fortunes and making them closely related to the royal family.
The Birth of Bradgate House
Thomas Grey, John’s son, established a new house at Bradgate, which became the power-base of the Grey family during the first half of the sixteenth century. Thomas became the 1st Marquess of Dorset, half-brother to Elizabeth of York, and uncle to the princes and princesses of the House of Tudor. He began constructing a house at the old manor of Groby around 1488 but left it half-finished, opting instead to build a new house at an entirely virgin site within the pale of Bradgate Park, giving birth to Bradgate House.
The Impressive Ruins of Bradgate House
Bradgate House is a significant historical site, with ruins that are open to the public throughout the year during daylight hours. The park’s setting is a very impressive example of the ancient form of a deer park, and the house is believed to be the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, who was queen for nine days in 1553.
The house was approximately 200 feet long, featuring a main hall measuring 80 by 30 feet. It has considerable remains of walls and fireplaces, as well as four truncated towers and a chapel that is still intact, containing a tomb effigy to Henry Grey, 1st Earl of Stamford and his wife.
Unique Features of Bradgate Park Castle
-
Deer Park Setting: The park’s setting is a very impressive example of the ancient form of a deer park, providing a unique and picturesque backdrop for the castle ruins.
-
Birthplace of Lady Jane Grey: Bradgate House is believed to be the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, who was queen for nine days in 1553, adding to the site’s historical significance.
-
Impressive Architectural Remains: The ruins of Bradgate House feature considerable remains of walls, fireplaces, four truncated towers, and an intact chapel, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the original structure.
-
Tomb Effigy: The chapel within the ruins contains a tomb effigy to Henry Grey, 1st Earl of Stamford and his wife, providing a poignant reminder of the site’s past inhabitants.
Visiting Bradgate Park Castle
Bradgate Park Castle is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a unique perspective on Tudor history and the rise of the Grey family. The park’s natural beauty and the impressive ruins of the house make it an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the site during daylight hours throughout the year, immersing themselves in the rich history and captivating atmosphere of this remarkable historical landmark.
References:
– The Tudor Travel Guide
– Historic England
– Wikipedia