‘King’ of the Dales castle
Bolton Castle has been in Tom Orde-Powlett’s family since it was built in 1379, now it has fallen to him, his wife and young family to ensure its future.
Catherine Scott reports. Pictures by Simon Hulme.
of the implementation of the post-Brexit environmental land management scheme in 2024.
“It will be a massive change but we should be in a strong position to respond to a more environmentally-focussed agricultural policy.
“We have such beautiful countryside which has been managed for so many years by the same families of farmers and game keepers who are looking after some of the UK’s most threatened birds as well as landscapes that are cherished by so many people.
“It is important that the Government listens to the people at the grass roots.”
Conservation is really very much at the heart of what the Owrde-Powletts are doing at Bolton castle and the surrounding estates.
Tom’s father has an interest in renewable energy and it is something he has embraced and is now using in Bolton Hall by utilising ground source and even hydro electricity.
“We are always looking at more sustainable ways of doing things, of marrying the old and the new. We need to embrace modern technology.”
Because the castle is privately owned, without the support of charities like English Heritage and the National Trust, every penny spent has to be earned by the family first. This means they always have to be on the lookout for new commercial opportunities while keeping it relevant to the history of the castle.
As Tom’s father did before him they have increased the number of weddings and private celebrations, and school activity days. It also acts as a film location (it previously ‘starred’ in
All Creatures Great and Small, Heartbeat and the Oscar-winning film Elizabeth, starring Cate Blanchett).
A calendar of events for all ages normally runs throughout the year, although with the current coronavirus pandemic Tom said he had taken the difficult decision to close Bolton Castle to the public.
“Due to the current coronavirus situation The Bolton Castle team has taken the decision, for the safety of our customers, to temporarily close until further notice,” he said in the statement.
“Please follow us on social media and the website and newsletters for updates as they occur. We at Bolton Castle will welcome you back soon.”
For further information and updates visit www.boltoncastle.co.uk/