Warwick Castle is one of the best-known medieval castles in England. It is located in Warwick and was built in 1068.
Warwick Castle History
Warwick Castle is owned by the Tussaud’s Group and is a very popular tourist attraction. Although the castle can get quite crowded with tourists, there is a lot to see and do, and is well worth the visit. In fact, if you are in England and have a chance to visit only one castle, it should be either Warwick or the Tower of London.
After getting your ticket, you will walk through the old stable houses which are now gift shops, and see the castle for the first time. In front of you on the Northeast corner of the castle is Guy’s Tower. The tower was built in the 14th century and stands 39 meters high. You can walk the ramparts and go to the top of Guy’s Tower for a great view of the rest of the castle.
Making your way around the castle to the left, you will pass by the Victorian Rose Garden and come to Warwick Castle’s main entrance, the gatehouse and barbican. Warwick’s entryway is very strong and boasts two sets of the portcullis, both protected with murder holes from above. There is also a dry moat below the gatehouse which is now crossed by a stone bridge instead of the drawbridge that was here prior to the 17th century.
The tower to the left of the gatehouse is called Caesar’s Tower. This tower is considered a masterpiece of 14th-century military architecture. The tower has 3 levels not including the dungeon below the tower and rises 44.8 meters from the river. Caesar’s Tower is topped by a platform that has a crenelated and machicolated parapet. Behind the parapet is another level containing a guard house for the archers.
Warwick Castle Visitor Information
Inside the castle itself, you’ll find lots of exhibits including the dungeon, the Ghost Tower, the Armory, the staterooms, gift shops, and restaurants.
The two highlights of the interior castle exhibits are; “Kingmaker” which walks you through the story of Richard Neville, the Kingmaker who helped chart the course of some of England’s Kings, and the Great Hall which contains over 1,000 pieces of arms and armor.
Warwick also provides daily events in and around the castle which change frequently. They include jousting, archery, battle re-enactments, falconry, etc. Be sure to visit their website to see the calendar of events before you go so you know what’s on that day.
Warwick Castle is an all-day attraction, but save some time to leave the castle grounds and go through town to the bridge that crosses the River Avon.
You will get the best view of the castle from the bridge. You can park to the left of the bridge and rent a little boat to travel up the Avon to get a closer look.
Also, the ruins of Kenilworth Castle are just a short drive North of Warwick and is much less crowded if you have an hour or two left to fill.
Opening times and tickets
Warwick Castle is open to the public every day except Christmas Day. Visit the official website for more information and tickets.
Gift shops, audio tours, a restaurant, and many events throughout the year are available at the castle.
It is located in the town of Warwick, England. There is a sign posted from Junction 15 off the M40.