A SURGE in the number of visitors to a stately home and castle is expected with the success of the period drama Wolf Hall.

Sudeley Castle and gardens, near Winchcombe, is referenced in the novel by Hilary Mantel and has been mentioned in the television drama chronicling the rise of Thomas Cromwell, the son of a humble blacksmith who became King Henry VIII's chief minister.

The critically acclaimed BBC adaptation explores life in the Tudor court against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful historic buildings in England.

Although filming did not take place at Sudeley Castle, the impressive home saw one of the key events of the English Reformation play out when Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn visited for a week in July 1535. They were accompanied by Thomas Cromwell who stayed next door at Winchcombe Abbey, and it was while Henry was staying at the castle that he put into motion the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

Sian Jocelyn, visitor services manager at the castle, said: “Wolf Hall has brought to life one of the most important eras in English history, and the show has inspired a new-found appreciation for the beauty and history of places like Sudeley.

“We expect to see a number of new visitors who are keen to walk in the footsteps of the key characters and explore the setting of some of the events.”

As a result of the Dissolution of the Monasteries, nearby Winchcombe Abbey was disbanded, though visitors can view some of its remains at Sudeley. Enthusiasts can find out more about the Tudors in the Six Wives Exhibition which houses replica Tudor costumes from Dr David Starkey’s TV series ‘The Six Wives of Henry VIII’, alongside information about the era.

Sudeley is the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within the grounds. The last of Henry VIII’s six wives, Katherine Parr lived and died there, where she still remains today entombed in a beautiful 15th century church found within the award-winning gardens.

Bringing the venue up to modern times, an owlery, pheasantry, adventure playground with picnic area, gift shop and café in the banqueting hall complete the visit.