Your adventure starts at Hatherop Castle!

Learning should be an adventure, with every day offering exciting new discoveries, fresh challenges plus lots of fun and friendship. Where better to start than in a real, live castle, surrounded by 22 acres of grounds and woodland, set in the heart of the glorious Cotswolds?

You may be asking yourself, ‘Which are the best independent schools near me?, or ‘Are there any boarding schools near me?’. If that’s the case, then you will find the answers to those questions (and many more) here.

Welcome to Hatherop Castle School

Why choose an independent school in the Cotswolds?

Moving to the Cotswolds is the ultimate dream for many and it’s easy to see why, as the area offers a rural lifestyle without losing touch with the shopping and cultural activities associated with big-city living.

Some of our prettiest, most ‘Instagrammable’, market towns are to be found in the Cotswolds and much of the appeal of living there lies in its picturesque charm, with quaint houses of honey-coloured stone.

From chocolate-box cottages to large country houses, dry stone walls and gentle, rolling countryside, the traditional architecture and striking landscape of this part of the world is a huge draw and makes it one of the most beautiful places to live and work in the UK.

Finding the right school for your child in the area is of utmost importance, and knowing that they’re well looked after, challenged and happy are the key considerations for many parents when choosing their independent school.

At Hatherop Castle, we understand that, which is why we’ve created a truly unique atmosphere and an exceptional setting providing broad and inspiring opportunities, outstanding academic results and a breathtaking environment where children can enjoy The Adventure of Childhood.

The Adventure of Childhood

Nestled in the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, the spirit of adventure runs through every part of life at Hatherop Castle, a magical place in which to spend your childhood.

From the youngest children in our warm and friendly Nursery, to the confident and resourceful Year 8 leavers, our pupils have access to an exciting and engaging curriculum, enthusiastic subject experts, and a programme that tailors the education to each, individual child. It is a place to try new experiences, take risks, grow in ability and confidence and fulfil potential, whether in the classroom, on the sports fields or in art, music and drama.

  • Learning tailored to every child
  • Broad and inspiring curriculum
  • Outstanding outcomes for our children
  • Exciting extra-curricular clubs and activities
  • Excellent sport, art and outdoor learning
  • Full, weekly and flexi-boarding options
  • Wrap-around care
  • Year-round Nursery
  • Holiday clubs

Boarding at Hatherop Castle School

Boarding plays a key role in developing the school’s strong sense of family values, encouraging children to live and work together harmoniously, build friendships and develop their independence. All the children flourish in comfortable surroundings where they are offered the attention, care and guidance they need.

With several ways to for your child to access boarding at Hatherop, from full-time to flexible options, there are so many benefits: developing independence, confidence, emotional intelligence, a sense of community and deeper level of friendships, better academic support and preparation for senior schools. Above all it’s fun!

Hatherop Castle School sits in breathtaking countryside in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with easy access to the vibrant, historic cities of Bath, Oxford and Cheltenham. The M4 motorway and fast-speed rail links (from Swindon, Kemble or Oxford Parkway) allow a rapid commute to London. Bristol airport is convenient for travel throughout Europe, and Heathrow is just over an hour away.