Belvoir Castle, home of the Dukes of Rutland was founded in 1067. There have been four castles built on the site since then. The Castle built on a promentory has a commanding view of the Vale of Belvoir to the Trent and in the distance to Lincoln Cathedral some 30 miles away. The Castle featured in the TV series The Crown and the film The Young Victoria.
A number of Kings and Queens have visited the castle during the centuries. King James I stayed in Belvoir Castle on April 1603 to thank the then Earl of Rutland for his support in helping him to succeed to the crown following Elizabeth I’s death. During the Civil War the castle supported Charles I who spent a night there for which in revenge the parliamentarians tore down the castle in 1649. Other monarchs include King George IV as Prince Regent on 2nd January 1814 and Queen Victoria as Princess Royal in 1835. Victoria visited Belvoir again but this time as Queen for three days at the beginning of her reign in 1843 together with Prince Albert. She was accompanied by the Duke of Wellington, the Prime Minster Sir John Peel and the Archbishop of Canterbury for the Christening of the Duke of Rutland’s eldest son.
It was in Queen Victoria’s reign that Anna, Duchess of Bedford when staying with the Rutlands asked that tea and light refreshment be brought to her rooms at 5pm for herself and her friends. Thus the tradition of Afternoon Tea was born.
It is hoped Belvoir Castle will participate in the Royal Melton Weekend through:
- Exhibition of Royals that have visited Belvoir and their stories
- re-enactments of Queen Victoria’s visit
- Themed Afternoon Tea
- Horse and carriage rides
- Photo opportunities (decoration and dress up)
For More information www.belvoircastle.com