Buckden Towers - Image 1
1 / 3

Buckden Towers

4.6
·258 reviews·Buckden, United Kingdom

A historic Tudor palace and bishop's residence, offering beautiful gardens and a venue for events and historical reflection.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Enjoy the gardens in bloom

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Buckden Towers - Image 1

Buckden Towers

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Enjoy the gardens in bloom

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Tudor palace and bishop's residence, offering beautiful gardens and a venue for events and historical reflection.

4.6
(258 reviews)

"A tranquil oasis with stunning grounds, perfect for wellbeing retreats or a peaceful escape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Enjoy leisurely walks through the gardens and grounds; it's a peaceful escape.

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look out for special events like fetes, markets, and theatre performances.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Towers

The Historic Towers

Main Building

Explore this stunning 15th-century structure, once a palace for Bishops of Lincoln and a place of exile for Katherine of Aragon.

Instagram+1
Ornamental Gardens

Ornamental Gardens

Grounds

Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, featuring box hedges, fruit trees, and a functional walled vegetable garden.

Reddit
Shakespearean Performances

Shakespearean Performances

Outdoor Amphitheatre

Experience live Shakespearean plays in a unique historical setting, a popular annual event for visitors.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Tours

While you can wander the grounds freely, guided tours offer deeper insights into Buckden Towers' rich history. Pre-booking is recommended, especially for specific events like Shakespeare plays or historical talks, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Consider Your Transport

Buckden Towers is accessible by car with ample parking, but public transport options can be limited. If relying on buses or trains, plan your journey in advance as connections might be infrequent. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Enjoy the gardens in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Festivals & plays abound
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our 2-day group training event at the stunning Buckden Towers this October is filling up — don’t miss your chance to join us! 🍂💪 Whether you’re just starting out in lawn care or looking to grow your business, this event is packed with hands-on demos, expert advice, and all the technical know-how you need to level up your skills. ✔️ Lunch, refreshments & course materials included
✔️ Products avai...
prolawncareuk
28 likes • 951 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Enjoy leisurely walks through the gardens and grounds; it's a peaceful escape. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look out for special events like fetes, markets, and theatre performances. Instagram+1

It is bank holiday weekend, so we thought we would share with you all the wonderful things you can do in Buckden. #buckden #annefurbank #village #local #shoplocal #pubs #park #villagelife #buckdentowers #buckdenmarina #bankholiday #bankholidayweekend
annefurbank
55 likes • 1.7K views
A great day spent at Buckden Towers coaching a new generation of lawn care entrepreneurs, where we covered how to make you offering for the market, how to leverage AI, social media platforms, how to market to the right type of clients, how to resonate with your ideal client and how to make the process work efficiently - with @prolawncareuk @bladesofglorylc @lauramalkinsportsphotography #lawncareb...
thelawnologist
12 likes • 410 views

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of space for cars, making it easy to visit by vehicle. Reddit

📚 Pre-book Guided Tours

Gain deeper historical insights by booking a guided tour in advance. Reddit

A fly over of the town of Buckden, Cambridgeshire, showing Buckden towers, one of the ancient ancestral homes of Henry VIII. The other landmarks are the Church of Saint Mary, and the local village church of Saint Lawrence in Diddington. Filmed on the DJI AIR 3 https://click.dji.com/ANfZGOQw-f_kzt4_ug_V_Q?pm=link #dji #djiair3 #drone #aerialvideo #djimavic #djimini
samuel_triggs
0 likes • 279 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Enjoy leisurely walks through the gardens and grounds; it's a peaceful escape. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look out for special events like fetes, markets, and theatre performances. Instagram+1

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of space for cars, making it easy to visit by vehicle. Reddit

📚 Pre-book Guided Tours

Gain deeper historical insights by booking a guided tour in advance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(258 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Buckden Towers for its beautiful historical architecture and well-kept grounds, making it a tranquil escape and a great venue for events like Shakespeare plays and markets. While some find public transport challenging and note a lack of extensive onsite facilities beyond the grounds, the historical significance and peaceful atmosphere are consistently highlighted as major positives. Reddit

"Went to see Shakespeare at the Towers. What a great venue for the annual play. The Towers is a beautiful and interesting historical place. Plenty of room for car parking, picnic area and slightly more room for the play as their annual venue now."

Andy Gardner

"I simply happened to step into this tranquil oasis! This enchanting historical site boasts stunning grounds, perfect for wellbeing retreats, workshops, or simply a peaceful escape. Imagine yoga sessions amidst the trees, or mindfulness walks through lush gardens. A hidden gem waiting to be discovered more, in my opinion. Looking forward to a live Shakespeare event this year."

Paul

"Lovely Tudor, Buckden Towers. Catherine of Aragorn was once kept under house arrest for a year here."

Gary Ord

What People Like

Beautiful historical site
Peaceful grounds and gardens
Great event venue

What People Dislike

Limited public transport
Few onsite facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Public transport to Buckden Towers can be challenging. While there are local bus services, they may be infrequent. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance. Train stations are also some distance away, making a car the most convenient option for many visitors. Reddit

Yes, Buckden Towers offers ample car parking facilities for visitors, making it convenient for those traveling by car. Reddit

Cycling routes may be available depending on your starting point. The surrounding countryside is generally pleasant for cycling, but check local cycle maps for specific routes. Instagram

The nearest train stations are typically in St Neots or Huntingdon, both of which require onward travel by bus or taxi to reach Buckden Towers. Reddit

The grounds are generally accessible, but specific accessibility details for the interior of the towers and certain garden paths should be confirmed directly with the venue. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds is often free, but specific events, guided tours, or access to certain buildings may require tickets. It's best to check the official website or event listings for current admission policies. Reddit

Opening hours can vary depending on the season and whether there are special events. The grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours, but it's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the history. Pre-booking is usually advised, especially for group visits or during peak seasons. Reddit

Information on group discounts is typically available on the venue's website or by contacting them directly. It's always worth inquiring about potential group rates. Reddit

Generally, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds, but restrictions may apply during certain events or within specific areas. Always check the venue's pet policy before visiting. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Buckden Towers, originally Buckden Palace, was a significant residence for the Bishops of Lincoln from the 12th century. It's famously known as a place of exile for Katherine of Aragon during the Tudor period. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore the historic buildings, wander through the ornamental gardens, enjoy picnics, and attend various events like fetes, craft markets, and outdoor theatre performances. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, there are designated picnic areas within the grounds, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely lunch amidst historical surroundings. Reddit

Buckden Towers is a popular venue for weddings and other events, offering a unique historical backdrop. Inquiries for bookings should be made directly with the venue. Instagram

The gardens and surrounding areas can attract various bird species and other local wildlife. The mature trees and pond area are particularly good for observing nature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there might not be a permanent cafe, food vans and stalls are often present during events like fetes and markets, offering a variety of refreshments and snacks. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Buckden Towers provides picnic areas, and bringing your own food is a great way to enjoy the grounds. Reddit

Yes, the nearby village of Buckden offers several pubs and dining options for visitors looking for a meal before or after their visit. InstagramReddit

During events, you can often find a range of options from local food vendors, including snacks, hot meals, and sometimes specialty items like cakes or ice cream. Instagram

For private events and weddings held at Buckden Towers, catering services can usually be arranged through the venue or their approved vendors. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The historic architecture of the towers, the formal gardens with their hedges and trees, and the scenic grounds offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photography. InstagramReddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require prior permission, so it's best to check with the venue. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful lighting for the exterior and gardens. Midday can be good for capturing details within the buildings. Instagram

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to confirm with the venue if there are any restrictions, especially during busy event days. Instagram

The intricate brickwork of the towers, the mature trees in the gardens, and the overall historical ambiance make for very photogenic scenes. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Buckden Towers offers a great day out for families. The expansive grounds are perfect for kids to run around and explore, and the picnic areas make it easy to manage meal times. Reddit Look out for family-friendly events like fetes and markets, which often feature activities and entertainment suitable for younger visitors. Instagram While the historical aspects might be more engaging for older children, the open spaces and natural elements provide plenty of fun for all ages. Consider a guided tour if your children enjoy stories and historical facts. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, Buckden Towers is a must-visit. Its connection to Tudor royalty, particularly Katherine of Aragon's exile, offers a compelling narrative. Instagram The site's origins as a bishop's palace also provide a rich tapestry of medieval and ecclesiastical history. Instagram Pre-booking a guided tour is highly recommended to unlock the deepest historical insights and stories associated with the architecture and its former inhabitants. Reddit

🌿 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts

The ornamental gardens at Buckden Towers are a significant draw for those who appreciate horticulture. Explore the well-maintained box hedges, diverse fruit trees, and the functional walled vegetable garden. Reddit The tranquil atmosphere of the grounds, with its mature trees and pond, makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Tudor History

Buckden Towers holds a significant place in Tudor history, most notably as a place of exile for Katherine of Aragon. After her divorce from Henry VIII, she was moved to various residences, and Buckden Towers served as one of her enforced homes for approximately a year. This period of her life is a poignant reminder of the political and personal turmoil of the era. Visitors can imagine her confined within these walls, a stark contrast to her former life as queen. InstagramReddit

The architecture itself speaks volumes about its past. Originally a palace for the powerful Bishops of Lincoln, the 15th-century structure showcases impressive craftsmanship. The use of over-fired bricks to create patterns in the brickwork is a notable detail, highlighting the builders' skill and aesthetic considerations. While much of its original grandeur as a bishop's palace has evolved, its historical resonance remains palpable. Instagram+1

For those interested in delving deeper, guided tours can illuminate the specific rooms and areas associated with Katherine of Aragon and the site's earlier history. Understanding these connections transforms a visit from a simple sightseeing trip into an immersive historical experience. Reddit

Gardens and Grounds: A Tranquil Escape

Beyond its historical buildings, Buckden Towers boasts beautifully maintained grounds that offer a peaceful retreat. The ornamental gardens are a highlight, featuring classic elements like box hedges, scented climbers, and a variety of fruit trees, including old apple and medlar varieties. These gardens are not just for show; a walled vegetable garden is actively cultivated, demonstrating a functional approach to horticulture. Reddit

The grounds extend to a pond area, surrounded by various trees, including the remnants of a once-mighty redwood, which, though cut down, still offers a sense of its former scale. These natural elements provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and contemplation. The space is ideal for wellbeing retreats, workshops, or simply a peaceful escape, as noted by visitors. Reddit

Whether you're enjoying a picnic, taking a mindful walk, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the gardens and grounds of Buckden Towers provide a refreshing contrast to the historical structures and offer a chance to connect with nature. Reddit

Events and Community Hub

Buckden Towers serves as a vibrant community hub, frequently hosting a variety of events that draw locals and visitors alike. These range from artisan markets and farmers' markets to larger village fetes and even outdoor theatre performances, such as annual Shakespeare plays. These events transform the historic site into a lively gathering place. InstagramReddit+1

These gatherings offer more than just entertainment; they provide opportunities for local artisans and businesses to showcase their products, fostering a sense of local pride and economic activity. Visitors can enjoy craft stalls, food vans, live music, and small car shows, creating a festive atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Furthermore, the venue is a popular choice for group training events, particularly in sectors like lawn care, where experts share knowledge and practical skills. This demonstrates the versatility of Buckden Towers as a location that can accommodate both historical appreciation and modern-day professional development. Instagram+1

You may also like