We are taking a rest day in Winchcombe. Sudeley Castle is just a short walk from the center of town so we went to explore. The old Gate House is now a charming private residence.

We were surprised to see elephants just inside the gate. Perhaps they are part of the herd that visited Houston last spring.

Parts of the original buildings are ruins left standing as a testament to the long history of the castle and its past inhabitants and visitors.

The buildings which are intact have remarkable exhibits of needlework, an exquisite library, beautiful furniture and clothing and many museum quality paintings. Sorry, no pictures allowed inside.

The church is available as a wedding venue. It has wood carving (even on the ceiling) and the smallest organ I’ve ever seen.

Sudeley Castle and Gardens is now the home of Elizabeth, Lady Ashcombe and the Dent Brocklehurst family.