Tours and open days at Kimbolton Castle
Tours and open days at Kimbolton Castle
Enjoy exclusive access to one of Cambridgeshire’s historic landmarks.
We regularly offer public open events, as well as offering the option to book a private group tour.
Both options provide fascinating insights into the Castle’s intriguing past.
Castle open days
Visit Kimbolton Castle and learn more about the mediaeval castle, Queen Katharine of Aragon, the Civil War, the ‘Great Rebuilding’ by Vanbrugh … and even the Castle ghosts!
Kimbolton Castle opens to the public twice a year, on the first Sundays of March and October.
At the heart of our community stands a building of national importance with a rich history spanning centuries. Our open days offer a unique opportunity to explore Kimbolton Castle’s story, from its medieval origins and Civil War connections to Sir John Vanbrugh’s magnificent transformation of the house.
Visitors can discover the story of Katharine of Aragon’s final months at Kimbolton, learn about the Castle’s resident ghosts, and explore the area’s role during the Second World War through displays on the American forces stationed nearby.
Guests can also visit the Castle’s impressive State Rooms, including the Queen’s Room, and explore the Heritage Room, which traces the Castle’s history from its Norman beginnings to its acquisition by Kimbolton School in 1950 and its continuing place at the heart of village life today.
Next events
- Sunday, 7 March 2027, 1.00pm-4.00pm
- Sunday, 4 October 2026, 1.00pm-4.00pm
upcoming events happening at Kimbolton Castle for Vanbrugh300
Youth Group event – 3 October 2026
- Girl Guide groups from across the region will take part in a range of Vanbrugh-inspired activities, including an interactive tour alongside drama and craft workshops featuring live storytelling and wearable architecture creations.
Open day information
Open day admission
- Adults – £10.00
- Over 65s – £7.00
- Children (Under 18) – £5
What do open days include?
Castle open days include access to:
- All the State Rooms, including the Queen’s Room, where Katharine of Aragon died.
- Stunning Pellegrini murals.
- A dedicated Heritage Room which traces the history of the Castle from its Motte and Bailey beginnings to its current incarnation as a top independent school.
- Members of Kimbolton Local History Society will be on hand as room stewards.
Accessibility
- Due to its Grade 1 listed status and dating back to the 1500’s, Kimbolton Castle is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for visitors with significant mobility challenges. The venue includes stairs, uneven surfaces, and limited seating areas. However, if you have any questions about your specific accessibility requirements, please contact us before booking.
Private group tours
Kimbolton Castle is open to groups by arrangement throughout the year, including evenings. Access during term-time is limited by usage of Kimbolton School.
During school holidays, requests for mid-week visits can usually be met.
A note on accessibility:
Due to its Grade 1 listed status and dating back to the 1500’s, Kimbolton Castle is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for visitors with significant mobility challenges. The venue includes stairs, uneven surfaces, and limited seating areas. However, if you have any questions about your specific accessibility requirements, please contact us before booking.
Private tour information
Group size and costs
- Maximum group size is 40. If you have a larger group please contact us to discuss
- A tour of the Castle interior takes approx. 1.5 hours
- £12.00 per head (minimum charge £240)
Tour themes
We welcome groups interested in a particular aspect of the Castle’s British history. Possible themes include:
- Katharine of Aragon and the Tudor Castle
- The 18th Century: Vanbrugh, Hawksmoor, Pellegrini and Adam
- Medieval Castle into Country House
- The Montagus: Earls and Dukes of Manchester
- Kimbolton Castle in Victorian Times
Booking a private tour
To arrange a private tour contact our Castle Historian and Visits Organiser or call 01480 860505 to discuss your needs.
Your tour guide
Our Castle Historian and Visits Organiser, Andrew Bamford is a history graduate from Selwyn College, Cambridge, with a vast knowledge of and enthusiasm for the history of Kimbolton Castle. He was previously Head of History at Kimbolton School and has become an accomplished guide after many years leading school trips around Britain and beyond.
