Magnificent medieval fortress with 1,100 years of history, featuring towers, ramparts, dungeons, and stunning interiors. Experience jousting tournaments, bird of prey displays, and interactive historical experiences.
Warwick Castle stands on a bend of the River Avon in Warwick, Warwickshire, England. William the Conqueror established a motte-and-bailey fortress here in 1068, and the stone castle seen today developed through the medieval period, later serving as a country house for the Earls of Warwick. The grounds contain towers, ramparts, a dungeon, a mound and a landscaped park designed by Capability Brown. Visitors can walk the ramparts and climb Guy's Tower and Caesar's Tower for views over the town and river. The Great Hall and State Rooms display period furnishings and armour, while exhibits such as Kingmaker and the Castle Dungeon use costumed actors and scenery to tell stories of the Wars of the Roses and medieval justice. The castle is known for daily shows, including a trebuchet demonstration, a jousting tournament, falconry displays at the Falconry Courtyard and a bird of prey show. The Horrible Histories Maze and the Mill and Engine House add attractions for children. The park offers peacock gardens and picnic space on the lawns. Most visitors spend four to five hours, and the best photograph of the castle is from the opposite bank of the Avon near the Mill Garden, which shows the walls reflected in the water. The castle is busiest during school holidays and on summer weekends, when shows are heavily attended, and quieter on term-time weekdays and in winter, though some attractions are reduced. Tickets are cheaper when booked online in advance, and arriving at opening time leaves time to see the full show schedule. Warwick town and Stratford-upon-Avon are close by.
| Admission | Adult £35.00 · Child £29.00 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 10:00-17:00 (seasonal variations) |
| Typical visit | 4-5 hours |
| Address | Warwick CV34 4QU |
Good to know
- Best for
- families, history buffs, children, medieval enthusiasts
Location
Warwick CV34 4QU
52.2793, -1.5859 View on map
Highlights
- Rampart walk and climbs up Guy's Tower and Caesar's Tower
- Trebuchet, jousting and bird of prey shows
- Castle Dungeon and Kingmaker exhibitions
- Capability Brown parkland and the Mill Garden view
- Great Hall and State Rooms with period armour
Tips for visiting
- Book online for significant discounts
- Arrive early to see all shows and attractions
- Climb the towers for panoramic views
- Special events during school holidays
When to visit
Arrive at opening on a term-time weekday for the shortest queues. School holidays and summer weekends are the busiest.
Accessibility
The grounds are partly cobbled and sloping, and the towers and ramparts include steep stairs. Some state rooms and shows have step-free access, and the castle provides a guide to accessible routes.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Warwick Castle take?
Most visitors need four to five hours to see the towers, shows and exhibitions.
Is Warwick Castle worth it for kids?
Yes, it is among the most family-oriented castles in England, with shows, a maze, dungeon and activities in school holidays.
Is photography allowed at Warwick Castle?
Photography is generally allowed in the grounds and for personal use, though some attractions may restrict it.