Art Solver Allover Bolsover

29th May 2021

Bolsover Castle.

Excellently preserved Keep and grounds of an original medieval castle in Derbyshire.

Rebuilt in 16th and 17th centuries it was the home of the 1st Duke of Newcastle, William Cavendish.

He was a lover of the arts and favoured poetry, writings and pictures.

Just behind the fountain in the second picture is a Cavalier who told us about the type of person Cavendish was.

His rooms in were full of art with talking points. As there was no TV in 16th century, conversation with guests centered around the pictures and tapestries on the walls.

Quite often (and in accordance with the sense of humour of the host) these would contain deliberate errors or changes which the guests would be encouraged to spot.

This policy was extended into the gardens with the fountain containing hidden water features below ground level which are not visible from the path.

The rooms are wood panelled and hide many secret cupboards and entrances and carvings in line with the humour.

Looking around such a building gives an insight into how castles actually operated. More informative than looking at a shell with an artists impression from the guidebook.

The castle contains the well preserved Riding House, an indoor equestrian area. It was used by William Cavendish (who was riding master to the future King Charles II) to train horses imported from as far away as Turkey and North Africa. 

The copper beech tree is very large and very impressive.