Welcome to Warwick Castle, a breathtaking medieval fortress that promises a day of excitement and exploration for the whole family! While staying 2 days in Stratford-upon-Avon, I had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful castle with my family, and it truly felt like we had stepped into a fairytale filled with knights, princesses, and magical adventures.
Just a short distance from Warwick, this majestic castle immediately pulls you in with its towering turrets, impressive battlements, and enchanting grounds. Felicity, the kids, and I were captivated the moment we arrived and this is why.
- A Journey Through Time: Discover the Castle’s Rich History
- Exciting Shows and Activities for Everyone
- Exploring the Castle Grounds: A World of Adventure
- Planning Your Visit: Tips for a Great Day Out
- Seasonal Shows and Entertainment: Excitement All Year Round
- In Conclusion: A Day of Fun and Discovery
- Accommodation at Warwick Castle Hotel & Knight’s Village
A Journey Through Time: Discover the Castle’s Rich History
Warwick Castle has a history that stretches back over 1,000 years. Originally built in the 11th century, it has witnessed countless events that shaped England’s history. As you stroll through the castle grounds, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of kings and queens, knights and nobles. The castle has seen everything from fierce medieval battles to grand royal gatherings, making it a treasure trove of stories just waiting to be uncovered.
Imagine the knights in shining armour, riding into battle, or the grand feasts held in the Great Hall, where lords and ladies dined on delicious food. The castle walls themselves are like a storybook, whispering tales of chivalry, loyalty, and adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for the various exhibits throughout the castle that share fascinating facts and stories about its illustrious past.
Exciting Shows and Activities for Everyone
One of the highlights of a visit to Warwick Castle is the incredible shows and activities that bring history to life. There’s something for everyone, from thrilling displays of knightly prowess to interactive experiences that engage young imaginations. Here are some of the must-see attractions:
Medieval Tournaments: The War of the Roses
Prepare to be amazed by the exhilarating War of the Roses tournament! This thrilling event features knights in full armour competing in breathtaking jousting matches. As you take your seat in the arena, you’ll feel the excitement build as the knights charge towards each other, lances at the ready!
The sound of clashing swords, the roar of the crowd, and the sight of these brave warriors battling it out will leave you on the edge of your seat. The tournament is not just a show; it’s an experience that immerses you in the spirit of medieval chivalry. You can cheer for your favourite knight and even learn a bit about the history behind these epic battles.
We had the pleasure of watching this spectacular show twice—once in the morning and again in the afternoon. Each performance was equally thrilling, and the energy in the arena was infectious!
The Magic of Falconry: Birds of Prey in Action
Another incredible highlight of your visit will be the falconry displays. At Warwick Castle, expert falconers showcase the remarkable skills of their birds of prey. You’ll have the chance to see majestic eagles, swift hawks, and wise old owls up close.
As the falconers call their birds, you’ll be captivated by the sight of them soaring gracefully through the air. This is not just a show; it’s a chance to learn about these magnificent creatures and their important role in the ancient art of hunting. You might discover fascinating facts, like how falcons can dive at speeds of over 200 miles per hour or how owls can turn their heads almost all the way around!
The falconry show is a perfect opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife and conservation while being entertained. Who knows, you might even inspire a budding birdwatcher or conservationist!
Exploring the Castle Grounds: A World of Adventure
The adventure doesn’t stop at the shows! Warwick Castle boasts beautiful gardens and sprawling grounds that are perfect for exploration. After the thrilling performances, take a leisurely stroll through the stunning landscaped gardens, where you can discover seasonal flowers, charming pathways, and hidden nooks.
The Dungeons are another exciting attraction! For brave souls, a visit to the castle dungeons offers an interactive experience where you can uncover the dark and mysterious history of the castle. With eerie sounds, spooky lighting, and actors bringing tales of medieval torture to life, this part of the castle is not for the faint-hearted but is sure to thrill older kids and teens!
For younger visitors, there are plenty of play areas where they can let off some steam. The Warwick Castle Adventure Playground offers fun climbing structures and exciting slides, perfect for children to explore and enjoy while parents relax nearby.
Planning Your Visit: Tips for a Great Day Out
To make the most of your family adventure at Warwick Castle, here are some handy tips:
- Avoid the Crowds: Warwick Castle can get busy, especially during school holidays and sunny weekends. If possible, plan your visit on a weekday or outside of peak holiday periods to enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Pack a Picnic: Bringing your own packed lunch is a great idea, as food inside the castle can be quite pricey. There are lovely spots in the grounds where you can enjoy your lunch together. Don’t forget to pack snacks for the kids!
- Stay Hydrated: Keep an eye out for the free water refill stations throughout the castle. It’s essential to stay hydrated in the summer, especially during a busy day of exploration.
- Capture the Memories: Don’t forget your camera! With so many stunning backdrops and fun activities, you’ll want to take plenty of photos to remember your adventure.
Seasonal Shows and Entertainment: Excitement All Year Round
One of the fantastic things about Warwick Castle is that its shows and entertainment events change throughout the year, offering a fresh experience every time you visit. During the summer, you might catch thrilling jousting tournaments, while the winter months bring magical Christmas displays. And if you’re visiting in October, you’re in for a spooky treat—Warwick Castle goes all out for Halloween, transforming into a haunted spectacle with ghost tours, eerie dungeon experiences, and family-friendly Halloween activities!
To stay updated on all the seasonal events, including special Halloween festivities, make sure to check the Warwick Castle website before planning your visit.
Accommodation at Warwick Castle Hotel & Knight’s Village
For an extra special experience, extend your stay by booking a night at the Warwick Castle Hotel & Knight’s Village. Nestled within the castle grounds, this unique accommodation lets you immerse yourself in the medieval magic long after the day’s adventures have ended. Choose from a range of unique accommodations, including themed lodges, medieval-inspired rooms, and for a truly magical experience, luxury glamping tents.
The glamping tents offer a charming blend of adventure and comfort, complete with cozy beds and medieval-style décor. Perfect for families or those seeking something a little different, it’s the ideal way to end a day of exploration and step back in time to the age of knights and royalty!
Our kids absolutely loved the experience, and I highly recommend staying here! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to ask in the comments below.
To book this hotel at discounted rate, click here.
In Conclusion: A Day of Fun and Discovery
A visit to Warwick Castle is more than just exploring a historic site—it’s a fun-filled adventure for the whole family. From exciting tournaments to amazing falconry shows, every moment at the castle is a chance to create unforgettable memories together.
If you’re staying 2 days in Stratford-upon-Avon or at the Warwick Castle Hotel & Knight’s Village , Warwick Castle is the perfect day trip. So, gather your family and get ready for a day of exploration. Whether you’re cheering for knights, watching birds of prey soar, or strolling through beautiful gardens, there’s something for everyone at this magical fortress!
Lived in England since 1998 and travelled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries on 5 continents. Writer, blogger, photographer with a passion for adventure and travel, discovering those off beat places not yet on the tourist trail. Marco contributes the very best in independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.