When it comes to a family day out packed with history, adventure, and just the right amount of “wow,” Warwick Castle has it all. From climbing towers to cheering at a jousting tournament, this medieval marvel offers plenty to keep kids entertained while sneaking in a bit of learning too.
We recently spent a day exploring Warwick Castle, and let me tell you, it’s a winner for families. Here’s what made it so much fun, along with a few tips to make your visit even better.
Starting with the Wow Factor
The excitement began before we even entered. As you approach the castle, the sight of the towering walls and massive gates is enough to make kids (and grown-ups) feel like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The kids were convinced dragons might be lurking inside, which set the tone for the day.
After grabbing our tickets, we made our way through the gates and into the castle grounds. The first stop? A quick family photo in front of the grand façade. It’s a must for the memory book.
Exploring the Castle Grounds
We started our adventure by wandering around the grounds, and there’s so much to see. The kids were drawn to the Peacock Garden, where real peacocks roam freely. They spent ages trying to get close for a picture (spoiler: peacocks are faster than they look).
The gardens are beautiful, and there’s plenty of space for little ones to run off some energy before tackling the castle itself.
Climbing the Towers and Battlements
The highlight for the kids—and the part that left me slightly breathless—was climbing the castle towers and battlements. The steps are steep, but the views from the top are worth every gasp for air.
From the top, you can see for miles, with the River Avon winding through the countryside below. The kids loved pretending they were lookouts guarding the castle, shouting “enemy approaching!” every time a boat drifted by.
The Dungeon Experience
If your kids are a bit older (and enjoy a spooky thrill), the Warwick Castle Dungeon is not to be missed. It’s an interactive show that mixes history with just the right amount of scary fun.
Our youngest opted out, so we took turns—one parent stayed outside exploring with her while the other ventured into the dungeon with our eldest. He came out wide-eyed and full of stories about creepy characters and “ghosts.”
Watching the Shows
Warwick Castle knows how to put on a spectacle, and the live shows were a huge hit. We caught the Birds of Prey display, where enormous eagles and owls swooped low over the crowd. The kids were amazed (and slightly terrified) by the size of the birds.
Later, we watched the jousting tournament, which was pure excitement from start to finish. The knights, in full armor, raced on horseback while the crowd cheered. My youngest waved her flag enthusiastically, rooting for the red knight like her life depended on it.
A Picnic Fit for Royals
We packed our own picnic, which turned out to be a great idea. There are lots of picnic spots scattered around the castle grounds, and eating outdoors added to the adventure.
For those who prefer to grab something onsite, there are plenty of food stalls and cafes serving everything from sandwiches to hot meals. Just be prepared for queues during busy times.
Time Travel in the Castle Interiors
After lunch, we explored the castle’s interiors. The Great Hall and State Rooms are packed with history, with suits of armor, swords, and ornate furniture at every turn. The kids loved spotting the weapons and trying to guess how much the knights’ armor weighed.
The interactive displays kept them engaged, and they loved hearing stories about life in the castle hundreds of years ago. The staff were fantastic too, answering all the kids’ (many, many) questions with enthusiasm.
Finishing with the Horrible Histories Maze
We ended our day with the Horrible Histories Maze, which was an absolute blast. The maze is themed around different periods of history, with fun challenges and trivia along the way. The kids raced through, shouting out answers and trying to beat each other to the finish.
It’s a great way to end the visit on a high note, and it left everyone smiling—even me, after being “rescued” from a dead end by my youngest.
Tips for Visiting Warwick Castle with Kids
- Arrive Early: The castle gets busy, especially on weekends and school holidays. Arriving early gives you time to explore before the crowds build up.
- Bring a Picnic: There are lots of lovely spots to eat, and bringing your own food can save you time and money.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: There’s a lot of walking (and climbing), so comfy shoes are a must.
- Book Shows in Advance: Check the schedule when you arrive and plan your day around the shows you want to see.
- Pack for the Weather: The grounds are mostly outdoors, so bring sunscreen, hats, or waterproofs depending on the forecast.
Why Warwick Castle Is Perfect for Families
Warwick Castle manages to combine history with fun, making it the perfect family day out. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s the thrill of the dungeon, the beauty of the gardens, or the excitement of the shows.
The kids left exhausted but happy, clutching their new toy swords from the gift shop and chattering all the way home about their favorite moments. As for me, I loved seeing them so engaged and full of curiosity about the past.
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, learning, and laughter, Warwick Castle is a fantastic choice. We can’t wait to visit again—and maybe next time, I’ll win the flag-waving contest at the joust!
