Château Laroche, also known as the Loveland Castle, is a unique museum situated on the banks of the Little Miami River in Loveland, Ohio. This location offers visitors a picturesque setting and a chance to explore a castle built in the style of a Medieval fortress. The castle's proximity to the river and its scenic surroundings make it an interesting destination for those interested in history, architecture, and nature.
The Loveland Castle was the brainchild of Harry D. Andrews, a Boy Scout troop leader, World War I veteran, and medievalist. Andrews began the construction of the castle in 1927, using stones from the nearby Little Miami River and later, molded bricks. His dedication to the project spanned over fifty years, reflecting his passion for medieval architecture and history.
Upon his death in 1981, Harry D. Andrews bequeathed the Loveland Castle to his Boy Scout troop, the Knights of the Golden Trail (KOGT). Since then, the KOGT has taken up the mantle of maintaining and upgrading the castle. Their efforts have resulted in extensive renovations and improvements to the castle, ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy.
Recent additions to the Loveland Castle include an expansion of the outside gardens and a new greenhouse. These enhancements add to the castle's charm and provide visitors with more areas to explore and enjoy. The gardens and greenhouse also reflect the ongoing efforts to improve and maintain the castle grounds.
History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Castle Historic house Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Garden & Park
Monday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Opening hours indicated on the table is from April 1st through Sept 30
October 1st to March 31st Saturday and Sunday only
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Years Eve
12075 Shore Dr., Loveland Park
No exhibitions in Loveland Castle have been found.
Loveland Castle has 1 rating.
Loveland Castle, also known as Chateau Laroche, is a unique attraction in Loveland Park, Ohio. This medieval-style castle was hand-built by Harry Andrews over several decades and now serves as a museum. Visitors can explore the castle's rooms, towers, and gardens, which offer a glimpse into medieval architecture and the builder's dedication.
The castle's stone construction and period furnishings create an atmosphere that transports visitors to another time. Many guests appreciate the DIY nature of the castle and find the story of its creation inspiring. The surrounding grounds, including a picnic area along the Little Miami River, add to the overall experience.
However, some visitors note that the castle is relatively small and can be fully explored in about an hour. The narrow staircases and tight spaces may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some reviews mention that the $5 admission fee feels a bit high for the size of the attraction.
The volunteer staff are generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting facts about the castle's history. However, the level of engagement can vary depending on the day and the specific volunteers present.
While Loveland Castle offers a quirky and interesting experience, it may not meet everyone's expectations of a full-fledged museum. It's best enjoyed by those with an interest in unusual architecture, DIY projects, or local history.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near Loveland Castle in or around Loveland Park.