English Park & Gardens
Take a stroll through the picturesque grounds of Zbiroh Castle, nestled at the foothills of the Křivoklát and Brdy forests. Covering 50 hectares, it is the largest landscaped castle park in the Rokycany region and one of the most significant historic gardens in western Bohemia. Designed in the English style, the park harmonises beautifully with the surrounding nature and seamlessly integrates architectural elements into the landscape.
The original park, which included a vineyard and an extensive deer park, was established by Emperor Rudolf II, a passionate lover of hunting and winemaking. Despite suffering damage during military use, the grounds have been carefully restored and once again showcase their former beauty, including Rudolf’s vineyard, where you can now sample the wine.
Throughout the park, you‘ll discover pavilions, scenic terraces overlooking the vineyard and countryside, fountains, cascading water features, and woodland groves that together create a unique and tranquil atmosphere. Follow the educational trail, enjoy one of the many activities on offer, relax by Strousberg Pond, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you at every turn.

Who might join you on your walk through the park?
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Our park is not just a place for scenic walks; it is a vibrant, biodiverse ecosystem that offers a rare blend of nature, history, and sustainability. Come and discover the magic of Zbiroh Castle’s English park!
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Fauna: A Haven for Wildlife Lovers
As you walk through the park, you may encounter a rich variety of native wildlife. The woodland areas are home to squirrels, foxes, badgers, hares, roe deer, and red deer—all of which may be spotted during your visit. Keen observers will also notice a wide range of birdlife, including the black woodpecker, great spotted woodpecker, grey and green woodpeckers, wryneck, and the rare pygmy owl. The park even serves as a nesting site for the majestic white-tailed eagle. In the evening, look out for bats quietly fluttering through the twilight air.
If you're lucky, you might see playful squirrels, which are a sign of the park’s successful conservation efforts and a healthy ecosystem.
Flora: Nature’s Treasures
The park is home to both native and exotic tree species, including rare and endangered varieties. Dominated by beech woodland, the park also features some of the most valuable trees in the Czech Republic. It is one of the richest locations for the endangered European yew (Taxus baccata), with some centuries-old specimens dating back to the time of Rudolf II. While the flesh-coloured berries of the yew provide food for birds, the yew itself contains toxic resin. You’ll also find holly trees adorned with signature red berries,
contributing to the park’s quintessential English look. In addition, many
other exotic trees enrich its botanical diversity.
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Strousberg Pond: An Oasis of Tranquillity
Strousberg Pond is the perfect spot to pause and soak in the surrounding beauty. Dragonflies hover above the water, and rare amphibians like the fire salamander, with its striking yellow spots, may make an appearance. Listen for the croaking of frogs, including the common and yellow-bellied toads. Colourful koi carp add a touch of the exotic as they glide across the surface.
Watch butterflies dance in the sun and gather near the fountains on the terraces and courtyard, searching for refreshment and nectar. Let the sounds of the forest draw you in and experience the harmony of this unique natural sanctuary.
Sustainability: From Garden to Plate
Sustainability and environmental stewardship are at the core of our park’s philosophy. In our efforts to protect native flora and fauna, we cultivate herbs for the castle Tavern, supporting local production and eco-friendly gastronomy. These herbs are featured in traditional recipes, symbolizing our commitment to connecting heritage with modern culinary trends.
Beekeeping and honey production are key components of our sustainable approach. Bees, essential pollinators in any ecosystem, help maintain the park’s biodiversity. Our castle honey—produced from pollen collected from a variety of domestic, exotic, and rare plants—is available for purchase at the visitor centre, or you can enjoy it at breakfast in the hotel.
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Wine kissed by sunlight and infused with the scent of Křivoklát forest air
The English park is home to a vineyard with a history dating back to the 16th century, established by Emperor Rudolf II—an avid lover of art, nature, and wine. The wine from Zbiroh was so exceptional that he had it shipped to Prague, praising it as “wine kissed by sunlight and infused with the scent of Křivoklát forest air .” Today, the vineyard stands as both a treasured historical legacy and a vibrant source of uniquely flavoured wines.
It is the highest-altitude vineyard in Czechia, and its bedrock of lydite imparts distinctive minerality and freshness. This rare combination of natural conditions makes Zbiroh wines truly one-of-a-kind. With hand- picked grapes and limited production, our wines are crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring the finest quality and preserving the character of each vintage.
Allow yourself to be captivated by the aroma and taste of this extraordinary wine that once enchanted Emperor Rudolf II. You can purchase it on-site at the visitor centre, in the castle Tavern, or conveniently order it online from our e-shop.

Discover all the ways you can enjoy
our beautiful park!
WANT TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ZBIROH CASTLE EXPERIENCE?
beauty of the castle and its grounds.