If you visit Sudeley Castle soon, you’re in for a big surprise ...
THERE will be a larger-than-life reopening of a Gloucestershire attraction next month – with a herd of elephants welcoming visitors to Sudeley Castle.
The castle has teamed up with international conservation charity The Elephant Family, which protects Asian elephants and their habitat.
From April 12 to May 31, 30 lifesize elephant sculptures will form a trail that weaves through the stunning Cotswold gardens, offering a Covidsecure adventure for all against the backdrop of the beautiful Sudeley Castle.
The sculptures, nestling among native British wildlife, will eventually form a 100-strong herd in London’s royal parks this summer, which will be transformed into the Nilgiri Hills of Southern India, before migrating to the USA and beyond on their global mission. There is a sentimental connection between the sculptures and Sudeley Castle, as the late Lord Ashcombe, whose widow, Lady Ashcombe, still resides at the castle, was the uncle of Mark Shand, who established The Elephant Family.
Lady Ashcombe said: “I am exceptionally honoured to host this very special herd of elephants at Sudeley
Castle and open our gardens for the first time in 2021, whilst sharing with our visitors the story of India’s wild elephants.”
In line with government guidance, only Sudeley Castle’s gardens will be open, as the castle itself is not yet able to open.
All tickets for the trail are on sale now, and must be pre-booked online via the Sudeley Castle website.