Tutbury: Castle, Glassmaking History and Walking Routes

Tutbury combines impressive history with paths through a distinctive river landscape. Those planning a trip with culture, historic sites and walks will find various options here for structuring their days. A holiday let in Tutbury can serve as a base for a trip where you can choose between castle history, local history and outdoor activities.

History around Tutbury Castle

The town's defining historic destination is Tutbury Castle. The motte-and-bailey complex was built by Henry de Ferrers by 1071. On the natural promontory are raised earthworks and others concealed in the ground, containing archaeological and environmental evidence of the site's use over more than six centuries. From there, the castle overlooks the floodplain of the River Dove.

Tutbury Castle is also associated with the history of Mary Queen of Scots: she was imprisoned there in 1569, 1570 and 1585. Today, medieval reenactments, falconry displays, ghost tours and family events form part of the year-round programme of events. There are also atmospheric rooms, museum exhibitions and guided tours. This means that a visit to the castle can be planned with a stronger focus on history, visual experiences or events, depending on your interests.

Church, Museum and Craft History

The Church of St Mary complements Tutbury's historic character. Its west façade dates from around 1160–1170. The western doorway has an outer order made of alabaster, considered the earliest known use of this material in England. St Mary's Tutbury is open to worshippers of all ages and backgrounds.

Tutbury Museum focuses on the town's broader social history, particularly the 19th and 20th centuries. The current summer timetable provides for opening hours from Wednesday to Friday, 13:30 to 16:00 each day, and on Saturdays from 10:30 to 16:00. This makes it possible to plan a specific museum visit on the days mentioned. The history of glassmaking in Tutbury dates back to 1472. The Silk Mill (Georgian Crystal) was built for William Lombe in the early 18th century and adds another dimension to the town's history.

Walks along the River Dove

Those who would like to spend time outdoors between the historic attractions can plan walks along the River Dove. The routes pass views of Tutbury Weir. The Tutbury Heritage Walk was devised by the Tutbury Civic Society and is one of the Heritage Walks in East Staffordshire. Another option is the self-guided Tutbury & Hatton Rails to Trails Walk, which starts and ends at local stations on the Northern Line operated by East Midlands Railway.

These different walking options allow you to make a conscious choice: the Heritage Walk focuses on Tutbury's local history, while the Rails to Trails Walk, as a self-guided format, supports your own planning for the day. The experiences mentioned can be selected regardless of whether you prefer a predominantly cultural stay or varied days involving physical activity.

Other Places for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to compare other destinations alongside Tutbury, you can also include Newcastle Under Lyme, Burntwood, Meerbrook, Tamworth, Perton, Hopwas, Cheddleton and Leek in your search. Tutbury is particularly suitable as a search destination when historic sights and walking routes are the focus of your trip.

For the broader travel overview: Staffordshire.