Situated in the centre of Bradgate Park, adjacent to the tarmac carriageway and midway between the Newtown Linford entrance and the Deer Barn Buildings.

The ruins of this magnificent Tudor house, reminiscent of Hampton Court. Bradgate House was one of the earliest unfortified mansions to be built in England and one of the finest brick houses of its period. Birthplace and early home of Lady Jane Grey (1537 – 1554) – nine days Queen of England.

It was started by Thomas Grey, 1st Marquis of Dorset, in about 1499 and his son completed it by 1520.  Further additions made some 20 years later and also in the 1600’s.

The completed house consisted of two main storeys with attics and was about 200 feet in length from east to west with two wings joined by a Great Hall and parlour on the north side.  

The west wing was occupied by the great kitchen, bakery and servants’ quarters.  The east wing contained the Chapel and the family apartments.

The house suffered damage when the first wife of the 2nd Earl of Stamford set fire to the north-west Tower but it was repaired in time for the visit, in 1696, of William III.

Bradgate House ceased to be lived in after the death of the 2nd Earl in 1719.  By 1790 it was in ruin and slowly falling into decay. The Ruins are now preserved by the Bradgate Park Trust.

Today the outline of this once magnificent house can still clearly be seen - the remains of the walls and ruined towers – including Lady Jane Grey’s Tower.  The only building that remains entire is the Chapel. This interesting building contatins a fine alabaster tomb, a memorial to Sir Henry Grey (created First Lord Grey of Groby in 1603) and his wife Anne Windsor. Nearby is the site of the famous Tilt Yard (used for Jousting), subsequently altered to a formal garden and now grassed over.

For further details on Bradgate House and the Grey Family Click Here

Or click here to take a virtual tour

ADMISSION

No charge is made for visiting the Ruins of Bradgate House.  However, there is a Collection Box within the Chapel and visitors are earnestly requested to make a donation. Proceeds are put towards the costs of opening the Ruins to visitors.

A wide range of publications giving more information on Bradgate Park, it's history, the Grey Family and general visitor information are on sale at the Visitor Centre and Country Park Shop.