Hatherop Castle Summer School
English, friendship & adventure in the heart of the English countryside
Imagine spending your summer in a beautiful English castle surrounded by rolling countryside and a warm, supportive community. At Hatherop Castle Summer School, children aged 8–12 enjoy an unforgettable opportunity to improve their English, explore British culture and make lifelong friends, all within the safe and inspiring grounds of a historic 500-year-old castle.
5 – 19 July 2026
With its enchanting setting and exceptional care, Hatherop Castle Summer School is the perfect place for children to grow, explore and create unforgettable summer memories.
Book two weeks at Hatherop Castle Summer School by 31st December and choose one free on-site Academy worth £150*
Summer School Programme
Set in 22 acres of landscaped gardens in the beautiful Cotswold countryside, Hatherop Castle provides the perfect backdrop for children from around the world to spend up to two weeks improving their English while discovering the best of British life.
Our carefully designed programme balances learning, culture, and connection – combining high-quality English tuition with exciting Academies, activities and excursions.
English Learning
Whether your child is a beginner or already confident in English, our TEFL-qualified teachers ensure every student makes meaningful progress. Lessons are theme-based – from science and history to literature and geography – making learning immersive and relevant.
- Small classes of 12 or less ensure personal attention and steady progress
- Five mornings per week are dedicated to English lessons, encouraging every child to build fluency, confidence and curiosity
Academies
Our Summer School Academies give children the chance to pursue their passions, have fun and practise English in a relaxed setting. Choose from Horse Riding, Tennis and Performing Arts.
Horse Riding | Performing Arts | Tennis | |
The Cotswolds is well-known for horse-riding and is home to internationally renowned Badminton Horse Trials. Children will develop their horseback riding skills (walking, trotting and cantering) and if skills allow will enjoy a hack in the surrounding countryside | With a modern Performing Arts Centre, Hatherop Castle is well regarded for its performing arts programme. A combination of music, dance and drama each week The Performing Arts Academy will finish with a performance at the Summer School Talent Show | With expert tuition from our professional LTA coach at Hatherop Castle School’s own tennis courts, children will learn all aspects of this popular summer sport from understanding grip, developing forehand and backhand strokes, serving, volleying and mastering positions on court | |
Location | Offsite | Onsite | Onsite |
Levels | No prior experience needed and a separate group for advanced riders | Suitable for all levels from beginners to experienced performers | Suitable for all levels of player from beginner to regular players |
Sessions | 4 x 45-minute riding lessons per week | 4 x 2-hour sessions per week | 4 x 2-hour sessions per week |
Equipment | Riding hats and body protectors are provided, and children must bring their own riding boots and trousers | No specialist equipment is required | Loan racquets are provided and children are welcome to bring their own |
Availability | Week 1 and Week 2 | Week 1 and Week 2 | Week 1 and Week 2 |
Cost | £250 per week | £150 per week | £150 per week |
* Summer School Early Bird offer has no cash equivalent value
Activities
Beyond the classroom, children join local pupils at Discover Activity Camp, our on-site day camp. Together they enjoy a range of outdoor games, arts, sports and challenges – the perfect chance to make British friends and share summer adventures.
Evenings & Excursions
Evenings are relaxed and sociable. Midweek and weekend excursions take children to famous landmarks and places of historic interest, offering real-world opportunities to practise English, explore the best of Britain and bring learning to life.
Living at Hatherop Castle – A Home Away from Home
Staying at Hatherop Castle is a magical experience – from cosy shared bedrooms to delicious home-cooked meals and caring house staff who make every child feel at home and part of our community.
Accommodation
Comfortable shared rooms and communal spaces provide a safe, welcoming environment, with 24-hour supervision from our experienced pastoral team.
Food
Our in-house chefs prepare nutritious, freshly made meals with plenty of variety. All dietary and cultural needs are catered for, with a daily menu that includes breakfast, snacks, hot lunch, afternoon tea and a two-course evening meal.
Care
Round-the-clock support ensures every child feels comfortable and cared for. Our pastoral team is always available – ready to offer encouragement, guidance and a friendly ear.
Key Information
- Ages: 8-12 years
- Dates: 5 – 19 July 2026
- Duration: 1-2 weeks
- Cost: £1,450 per week
- Academies and transfers extra
Download our brochure
Limited to 40 students – early booking recommended
Highlights
- A 500-year-old English castle in 22 acres of gardens
- 15 hours of English tuition per week (max. 12 students per class)
- Small, supportive learning community
- High-quality Horse Riding, Tennis and Performing Arts Academies
- Multi-Activity programme included
- 2 or 3 excursions per week
- Decades of experience hosting international students
- Home-cooked food for all dietary needs
- Comfortable shared accommodation (3–7 beds per room)
- Safe, caring environment focused on fun and personal growth
Secure Your Child’s Place Today
Give your child a summer of language, learning, and lifelong memories at Hatherop Castle School