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    The Libraries

    The Library and The Ante Library

    In large country houses such as Highcliffe Castle, the Ante Library was used to store books that the owner had read, or as an overflow from the main library.

    Both the Ante Library and the Library were galleries with ceilings plastered to represent wood. Access to the upper walkway was via a spiral staircase in the Library. The doorway between the Ante-Library and the Library had a set of Spanish red cloth curtains to minimise the draughts. These curtains bore the coats of arms of the Stuart and Yorke families.

    It is estimated that these two rooms at the Castle could house up to 30,000 books.

    White marble statue of Lady Louisa Waterford in front of ornate leaded glass bay window.
    The cellar in Highcliffe Castle

    Why not take a Tour?

    Our knowledgeable volunteer guides will be able to take you behind the scenes to visit areas of the Castle you will not get to see on the public route. Upgrade your admission ticket on the day.*

    *subject to change and availability

    Close up of a piano with gold lettering of maker on it.
    Castle Wintergarden with rows of white chairs, large leaded glass floor to ceiling windows and open timber ceiling.
    Round wooden tables with chairs for wedding set up in dining room with unrestored brick walls.
    Great Hall Highcliffe Castle showing stained glass window and decorative stonework.
    White marble statue of Lady Louisa Waterford in front of ornate leaded glass bay window.
    Wooden panelled room with two free standing, four sided floor displays.
    Newly restored kitchen with large wooden table and interactive displays.
    View overlooking the Castle Parterre to the outside of the Wintergarden, with floor to ceiling windows o