Warwick Castle

• This medieval castle was initially built by William the Conqueror in 1068 and was used as a stronghold until the 17th century.
• Discover the gruesome Warwick Castle dungeon with live actors and special effects ready to show the horrors.
• Meet the castle characters, who will share what it’s like to live in the castle.
• Hear the ghost story of Fulke Greville, who is rumoured to haunt the Castle. Can you see him wandering?
• Explore the grand interiors with the Great Hall and State Rooms as you discover over a thousand years of history.
• Enjoy 64 acres of landscaped gardens; why not bring a picnic along?

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire, is a 1,100-year-old castle near the River Avon. Over a thousand years ago, warrior princess Ethelfleda ordered a fortress to protect the town of Warwick. The castle is still standing today and has been open to the public since 1978. It has undergone millions of pounds' worth of renovation work and is still standing strong, with so much for your family to explore.

Meet Warwick Castle’s resident jester, who'll show you the dark 300-year history of Warwick Castle dungeon. Be careful, as a judge will decide your fate - will you be executed, or live to hear the tale of the cursed Castle from a vengeful witch?

Stand in the largest room in the castle, the Great Hall, and feel small as you see what a medieval hall looks like, with extra additions to demonstrate the history of the castle. If you’d prefer to go forward to the 18th century, the State Dining Room is ready. You can imagine the royalty that’s sitting there, as the room has had many guests throughout history, including Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II. Immerse yourself in the 16th-century Red Drawing Room, or dive into the 17th century in the Cedar drawing room. The rooms of the castle hold more than can be written about, so you’ll just have to go and see it for yourself.

Pretend to be a soldier and conqueror outside by scaling the Conqueror’s Fortress and exploring the Towers and Battlements. If you feel like picnicking, there are 64 acres of garden to find a spot. Can you find the topiary peacocks, or the island with a secret?

Events like the Luna Drive In Cinema and open-air beer garden The Open Arms run throughout the year. Halloween can introduce your kids to the haunted castle, though be careful you don’t upset the ghosts. On a lighter note, Christmas at Warwick Castle always feels magical with its winter market and ice skating. The Falconer’s Quest and Bowman Show both take place regularly too, so allow your children to see history in action.

If you don’t fancy a picnic outside, there is plenty of shopping available at Warwick Castle. The Conservatory Tea House is perfect for a light lunch, or The Coach House restaurant can supply you with a takeaway coffee. There are also delicious refreshments at Courtyard Refreshments. There are a variety of shops too, whether you want a replica bow and arrow set, or just a postcard.

What to know before you go

• Face masks are required in any retail sections of the castle, as well as at certain attractions, so please bring one.
• Warwick Castle opening times are typically from 10am-4pm. A time slot must be booked with your ticket before arrival.
• The majority of Warwick Castle is wheelchair accessible, but two areas will require advice from staff; the Conqueror’s Fortress (the old Castle Motte) and the Barbican (portcullis area). There are also some small hills, and certain areas where experiences take place that are not accessible. Members of staff will be able to guide you.
• Certain areas are unable to accommodate assistance dogs: The Castle Dungeon; Gaol; Princess Tower; Time Tower and Towers and Ramparts.
• There are accessible toilets and baby changing facilities at the Stables Toilets near the main entrance.
• There are four restaurants, four snack shops, and four gift shops within Warwick Castle, so whether you need to fill a tummy or remember the day there’s somewhere you can go.
• It is possible to stay at Warwick Castle. With glamping and lodges at the Knights Village and suites at Caesar’s Tower, you’ll get a two-day Castle entrance ticket and evening entertainment. There are also hotels near Warwick Castle if you’d prefer to have the whole town to explore.
• If castles interest you, why not explore Windsor Castle, the oldest castle still in use? Or, since you’re nearby, head down to Oxford to discover Oxford Castle and Prison.

Getting there

• To get to Warwick Castle by road, it’s less than two miles from junction 15 of the M40. Approach the one-way Castle Lane from West Street as there is a Warwick town centre traffic management scheme in place.
• For standard parking, the postcode is CV34 6AH. For express parking, the postcode is CV34 4QU. There is an accessible drop off.
• Express parking at the Stables car park costs £10. Standard parking at Stratford Road Car Park is £6.
• Warwick Station is approximately one mile from the Castle. A direct service from London Marylebone is available, which will take 1 hour 45 minutes. Birmingham Snow Hill is also easily accessible.