Cholmondeley Castle
Cholmondeley Castle in Malpas is a romantic, turreted country house set within one of Cheshire’s most beautiful historic landscapes. Although it looks medieval, the castle was actually built in the early 19th century for the Cholmondeley family, who transformed their ancestral estate into a grand Gothic Revival residence. Its striking silhouette, perched above rolling parkland, has made it a favourite backdrop for artists, filmmakers, and visitors seeking a touch of old‑world drama. Inside, the castle reveals elegant state rooms filled with family portraits, fine furniture, and objects collected over generations. One of the most interesting features is the Saloon, where ornate plasterwork and large windows frame sweeping views of the gardens. The chapel, with its delicate stained glass, adds another layer of heritage to the estate. The surrounding grounds are just as compelling. The Temple Garden, Lavinia Walk, and the Rose Garden showcase rare plants, lakeside vistas, and carefully designed seasonal colour. The estate’s deer park and woodland trails offer peaceful routes for exploring the wider landscape.
Malpas United Kingdom
Cholmondeley Castle is located in rural Cheshire, just outside the village of Malpas. Set within a large private estate, it’s a 19th-century Gothic-style castle built on the site of a much older Tudor hall. The castle itself remains a family home and isn’t open to the public, but the estate gardens and grounds are open on selected dates from spring to early autumn. The gardens are the real draw — 70 acres of sweeping lawns, ornamental lakes, a Temple Garden, Rose Garden, and the unique Folly Water Garden with cascading pools. Kids love the Cholmondeley Farm and play area, and the estate often hosts events like the Pageant of Power and food festivals. The parkland has red deer, ornamental chapels, and tree-lined walks with views over the Cheshire Plain. The castle is about 5 miles from Malpas, a charming market village with medieval St Oswald’s Church, old coaching inns, and independent shops. You’re also close to the Sandstone Trail, a popular long-distance walking route with great hill views toward the Welsh border. The historic city of Chester is around 30 minutes’ drive, offering Roman Walls, Chester Zoo, the Cathedral, and the Rows shopping galleries. Beeston Castle, an English Heritage site perched on a crag with views to eight counties, is also nearby. For garden lovers, Dorothy Clive Garden and Arley Hall are within easy reach.