I had a day out with the kids to Warwick Castle, and what a day it was!
Back in the school summer holidays I promised my boys we would visit Warwick castle. The boys Dad bought them premium Merlin passes.This means we can visit attractions all year round. The kids Merlin passes enabled me to get in for half the price. We also got free parking. This made it a very reasonable day out.
About Warwick Castle
Warwick castle is based in Warwick, UK. It is one of the most intact medieval castles in England. Originally built using wood in 1068 by William the Conquerer. In the 12th century the castle was rebuilt using stone. Several other additions have been added over time. Various royals have visited and stayed in the castle, home for many years to the Earl of Warwick and descendants. The castle has held prisoners. The jail is nothing more than a tiny basement room, which you can go into.
In the 16th century the castle owner Fulke Greville was murdered by his manservant. This servant was furious at being excluded from Greville’s will. One of the castle’s towers is said to be haunted by Greville’s ghost. The tower has been renamed as the ghost tower.
Things for the kids to do in Warwick castle
There are things for kids of all ages to take part in at Warwick castle. It seems there are more activities during peak times. The castle had a lot on and it was difficult to choose what to do. We didn’t want to miss anything.
There is a Zog themed play area, which was safe and secure. The play area has only one way in and out which made it safe for the children to go off and wander. There is also a Zog trail where children can collect stamps along the way. A Zog stage show also proved popular during our day there.
Shows & displays
There were also a number of displays on throughout the day. We were going to give the falconers quest a miss. However, we inadvertently ended up being there when it was on, and it was amazing! The amount of time and effort that goes into creating it and the story was outstanding. The three of us stood mesmerised.
The legend of the trebuchet was great fun too. The audience sat in the riverside arena on the grass. From across the river Britain’s biggest siege machine is fired. The trebuchet is a giant catapult powered by weights. People in hamster wheels crank the weight up. Once the giant arm is released, a cannonball is launched. Look it up!
One of the best bits by far was the live show, War of the roses. This story takes place in the jousting arena, with knights and princesses atop of horses. If you haven’t already guessed what happens here, it’s jousting. The crowd went wild! They were cheering on each side in the jousting battle.
Other things to do & see
As well as this there is obviously Warwick castle itself. There are tours around the castle but we chose to wander around at our own pace. There were many lovely things to see around the house. The views from the ramparts were breathtaking. The tower isn’t accessible and there are a lot of stairs so be mindful of that.
For an extra charge, children could take part in various activities. Both the boys went to jousting academy. The member of staff running the workshops was absolutely fantastic, and kept the adults and kids entertained alike.
You can visit the dungeons for an additional charge. There is a show with live actors. The dungeons are not recommended for children under 10. This is why we decided to give it a miss.
There really is so much to fit in, it’s a great day for all the family.
Places to eat at Warwick Castle
I usually prepare a packed lunch when going on a day out with the kids. On this occasion though, I had packed a lunch for the kids and forgot about myself! There is a restaurant & tea room, as well as some food outlets dotted around the castle grounds. Even though it was the summer holidays there wasn’t a great deal of choice. With the weather on our side, we sat outside at a picnic table. Peacocks were roaming around, sometimes brave enough to come and look what people were eating. I bought a delicious, reasonably square of pizza from one of the vendors. As expected there were the usual sweets, ice creams and fizzy drinks for sale in the shop. You even get a discount if you present your Merlin pass or a blue light card.
Tips for a day out with the kids at Warwick castle
- There is a shuttle bus that runs from the bottom car park to outside the castle entrance. Great to save little legs.
- Take a packed lunch, there are plenty of places to sit and eat in the good weather. Pack a picnic blanket too. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the beautiful landscaped gardens.
- Download the app. It has a map which shows you the walking distance to attractions. You can also set reminders to make sure you don’t miss anything.
- Take pocket money. The prices in the gift shop are very reasonable.
Day out at Warwick Castle rating
The day was absolutely fantastic! There were lots of activities. It would be better if there was a better selection of food options, also more tables for people to sit and eat.
Warwick Castle gets a
4.6/5.0
