The land that Hartlebury sits on was granted to the Bishop of Worcester by King Burghred in the late 9th century, although the foundations of the building that now stands here is believed to date back to the 13th century. Since that time it has been a centre of ecclesiastical and administrative power in Worcestershire with its resident bishops involved in some of the major events of British history.

Hartlebury Castle tells the story of the bishops of a major see and their evolving role in English society, from political and military guardians of a frontier with Wales to active participants in political decision making in modern times. They number a pope (Clement VII) who played a key role in precipitating the establishment of the Church of England; Bishops Latimer and Hooper, Protestant martyrs of the Reformation; and Bishop Hurd, friend to King George III and creator of the Hurd Library.

When the Church of England put Hartlebury Castle up for sale in 2007 local villagers joined together to form a Trust to preserve the castle and its stories:

Hartlebury Castle stands as a timeless testament to over a millennium of history, bearing witness to the stories of 112 bishops and countless others who have called it home. From its origins as a Castle, to its varied roles as a manor house, prison, hospital, and sanctuary, Hartlebury Castle has endured the ages.