Warwick Castle
Step into 1,100 years of history at Warwick Castle: explore towers, ramparts, and 64 acres of grounds with live knights, birds of prey, and family adventures.
Step into over 1,100 years of history at Warwick Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress on the banks of the River Avon. Explore towering stone walls, climb ancient towers, and wander 64 acres of landscaped grounds. Watch thrilling live shows, from jousting knights and birds of prey to fireball catapults and immersive storytelling. With interactive attractions, family-friendly adventures, and seasonal events, it’s a living journey through England’s dramatic past.
A brief summary to Warwick Castle Main Entrance
- Warwick, Warwick, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 8 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early in the day to avoid the largest crowds and make the most of the live shows and attractions, which are scheduled throughout the day.
- Check the daily show timetable when you arrive or via the castle’s app to plan your visit around key events like the joust, birds of prey display, and fireball catapult.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site is extensive, with cobbled paths, grassy areas, and steps up towers and ramparts.
- Bring a light jacket or layer, as the stone interiors and open battlements can feel cool even on sunny days, especially in spring and autumn.
- Consider an annual pass if you plan multiple visits; it offers good value for repeat trips and includes access to seasonal events and evening shows.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By car
From central Warwick, follow signs to Warwick Castle via Castle Lane. The main entrance is clearly marked, with dedicated visitor parking nearby. The drive from Birmingham takes about 40 minutes, and from London around 1 hour 40 minutes via the M40. Parking is available on site for a fee, with spaces for standard vehicles and accessible parking close to the entrance.
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By train
Warwick railway station is about a 20-minute walk from the castle entrance, following a well-signposted route through the town. Direct trains run from Birmingham, London Marylebone, and other regional stations. The walk is mostly flat and passes through the historic town centre, but comfortable shoes are recommended, especially with children or luggage.
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By bus
Local bus services connect Warwick town centre with the castle area, with stops within a 10–15 minute walk of the entrance. Services run regularly from nearby towns and cities, but frequency can vary, so checking timetables in advance is advisable, particularly on weekends and during school holidays.
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On foot from Warwick town
From Warwick town centre, the castle is a 20–25 minute walk along a mix of pavements and quiet streets. The route is well marked and passes historic buildings and the River Avon, but involves some gentle slopes and cobbled sections, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking.
Warwick Castle Main Entrance location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Warwick Castle Main Entrance
A Fortress Forged in History
Perched above the River Avon, Warwick Castle has stood as a symbol of power since the 11th century. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068 on the site of an earlier Anglo-Saxon fortification, it evolved over centuries into one of England’s most formidable medieval strongholds. Its massive stone walls, imposing towers like Caesar’s Tower and Guy’s Tower, and deep moat speak of a time when castles were both military fortresses and seats of noble authority. For generations, it was home to the powerful Earls of Warwick, known as the ‘Kingmakers’ for their influence in the Wars of the Roses.Life Within the Walls
The castle’s interiors reveal a layered past, from the grand State Dining Room where royalty once dined to the atmospheric Castle Dungeon, where grim tales of imprisonment and punishment come to life. Interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters bring history into focus, whether it’s the story of a medieval knight, the intrigue of court politics, or the daily lives of servants and soldiers. The Great Hall, with its high timbered roof and heraldic displays, evokes the pomp and ceremony of a bygone era, while the Time Tower and Princess Tower offer engaging, family-friendly narratives that make the past accessible to younger visitors.Thrills and Live Spectacle
Warwick Castle is as much about entertainment as it is about history. Daily live shows transform the grounds into a stage for medieval drama: knights clash in jousting tournaments, falconers send eagles and vultures soaring in the Flight of the Eagles display, and the Trebuchet Fireball Spectacular sees a giant siege engine hurl flaming projectiles across the moat. Seasonal events add further magic, from Halloween’s Spooktacular to the festive Christmas at the Castle, complete with light trails, an ice rink, and visits with Santa. These spectacles, combined with attractions like the Horrible Histories Maze and the Realm of Zog, ensure there’s always something exciting to see and do.Grounds and Gardens
The castle is set within 64 acres of beautifully maintained parkland and gardens, offering space to wander, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The Peacock Garden is home to roaming peacocks, while the landscaped lawns and wooded areas provide a peaceful contrast to the castle’s imposing architecture. From the ramparts, sweeping views stretch across the Warwickshire countryside, and the riverbank offers a quieter spot to pause and take in the scale of the site. The grounds are designed to be explored at leisure, with pathways leading past historic features, play areas, and seasonal installations.A Living Heritage Experience
More than just a static monument, Warwick Castle functions as a living heritage site where history is actively interpreted and experienced. Guided tours, themed trails, and special events delve into different aspects of the castle’s story, from its military role to its social and cultural significance. Whether it’s a family day out, a school trip, or a visit for history enthusiasts, the castle offers a rich, multi-layered experience that balances education with entertainment. Its combination of authentic architecture, engaging storytelling, and dynamic programming makes it one of England’s most compelling historic attractions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Randolph Turpin Statue
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
12.6 km
Discover the enchanting Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and comfort blend seamlessly for an unforgettable stay.
Tramway Bridge
12.7 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Countess of Evesham
12.7 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Stratford Waterside Market
12.7 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Stratford upon Avon
12.7 km
Historic market town on the River Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare, blending timeless Tudor charm with vibrant cultural life and scenic riverside beauty.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop
12.8 km
Discover the essence of Shakespeare's legacy at The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop, a unique gift shop in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
12.8 km
A bronze tribute to the Bard in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where literature and history come alive on Henley Street.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
12.8 km
Discover the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the legacy of Shakespeare comes to life through captivating performances and stunning architecture.
Magic Alley
12.9 km
Discover the magic and folklore at Magic Alley, a whimsical attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon that brings stories to life in enchanting displays.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
12.9 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Sinister Stratford
12.9 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Garrick
12.9 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
12.9 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
The Shakespeare Memorial Fountain
12.9 km
A Victorian Gothic tribute in Stratford’s marketplace celebrating Shakespeare, Queen Victoria, and Anglo-American friendship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Warwickshire Yeomanry Museum
0.1 km
Explore the rich history of the Warwickshire Yeomanry cavalry regiment in the historic Georgian Court House of Warwick.
The Castle Dungeon
0.1 km
Step into Warwick Castle’s dark past with The Castle Dungeon, a spine-chilling immersive journey through plague, torture, and medieval terror.
Warwick Antiques Centre
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Warwick Antiques Centre, a historic marketplace in the heart of Warwick.
Time Tower
0.2 km
Step inside the Time Tower at Warwick Castle for an immersive journey through centuries of history with captivating audiovisual storytelling and stunning views.
Warwick East Gate Victorian Type PB1 Postbox
0.2 km
Discover Warwick’s charming Victorian cast iron postbox, a vibrant red relic of 19th-century British postal heritage still in use beside East Gate clock tower.
Warwick
0.2 km
Discover Warwick’s timeless medieval castle, charming historic streets, and tranquil river setting in the heart of Warwickshire.
St Mary’s Church
0.2 km
Discover St Mary’s Church, Warwick: a historic collegiate church blending medieval grandeur with post-fire Gothic revival in the heart of Warwick.
The Weird Walk of Warwick
0.3 km
Explore centuries of military history and medieval charm at the Lord Leycester Hospital’s Weird Walk of Warwick, a unique living heritage site.
The Lord Leycester
0.3 km
Step into a living medieval masterpiece where Tudor history breathes through centuries-old timber walls and enduring traditions.
Warwick Castle
0.3 km
Discover over 1,100 years of history, thrilling live shows, and breathtaking views at Warwick Castle, one of Britain’s finest medieval fortresses.
Market Hall Museum, Warwick
0.4 km
Discover Warwickshire’s rich history in a 17th-century landmark with fossils, Roman treasures, and a live beehive at Market Hall Museum.
Market Pl
0.4 km
Discover Warwick Market’s vibrant Saturday stalls in the historic Market Place, where fresh local produce and unique crafts come alive every week.
The Rose & Crown
0.4 km
Historic Warwick gastropub and inn offering seasonal cuisine, fine ales, and cozy accommodation in the heart of Market Place.
St John's House
0.5 km
Explore nearly 900 years of history in Warwick’s Jacobean St John's House, a Grade I listed mansion blending heritage, education, and intimate events.
St Nicholas' Park, Warwick
0.5 km
A historic riverside park in central Warwick offering gardens, sports, and family-friendly leisure in a tranquil natural setting.
Essential places to dine
Aqua Food & Mood Lebanese Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Lebanese flavors and warm hospitality combine in Warwick’s cozy Mediterranean gem.
Giggling Squid - Warwick
0.1 km
Vibrant Thai tapas and bold flavours in Warwick’s historic High Street, with a welcoming atmosphere and dedicated vegan options.
The Art Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Thai cuisine in Warwick’s dynamic art gallery setting, where fresh flavors meet contemporary creativity.
La Mesa
0.3 km
Experience intimate Spanish-Mediterranean fusion dining in Warwick’s historic Old Square with exquisite five-course menus and warm hospitality.
The Aubergine Turkish Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavors and warm ambiance in the heart of historic Warwick.
7 Square Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience refined French-inspired cuisine and unique artistic ambiance in the heart of Warwick’s historic Old Square.
Tasca Dali
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish flavors with a surprise 5-course tasting menu in the heart of Warwick’s Market Place.
The Globe
0.4 km
Historic Warwick pub and hotel offering Mediterranean-inspired dining, cozy rooms, and a lively yet welcoming atmosphere in the town center.
Saxon Mill Warwick
2.4 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
The Moorings at Myton
2.6 km
A charming canal-side gastropub in Royal Leamington Spa, serving locally sourced English classics in a family- and dog-friendly setting.
The Star & Garter
3.2 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
Habano Restaurant & Wine Bar
3.5 km
A vibrant Pan-Latin dining experience with fresh Cuban and Spanish flavors, friendly service, and a lively wine bar in the heart of Leamington Spa.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
3.6 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
3.7 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Côte Leamington Spa
3.7 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Present Days
0.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming gifts at Present Days, Warwick’s beloved boutique gift shop on historic Swan Street.
Trinkets & Treasures Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Browsers
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes in the heart of historic Warwick at Browsers, your cozy local gift shop on Smith Street.
NV Her
0.3 km
Discover unique, sophisticated ladies’ fashion with a raw edge at NV Her, Warwick’s independent boutique in Market Place.
Cloud 9
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
BeHoptimystic
0.3 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique collectibles and rare treasures in the heart of Warwick’s historic Market Place.
The Shop at Market Hall
0.4 km
Explore The Shop at Market Hall for handcrafted treasures and local gifts that capture the heart of Warwick, England.
The Original Factory Shop (Warwick)
0.4 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, beauty, and home essentials in the heart of Warwick’s historic Market Place.
Leamington Shopping Park
2.5 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Stone The Crows
3.5 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
Lilac Rose
3.5 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
3.6 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
3.7 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
3.7 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Revolve
3.7 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ronnie's of Warwick
0.1 km
Eclectic bar in Warwick blending retro style, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere with a welcoming garden space.
That Gin & Cocktail Bar (That Gin Company)
0.3 km
Discover Warwick’s premier gin destination, blending bold handcrafted flavors with a cozy, inviting cocktail bar experience.
The Old Coffee Tavern
0.3 km
Charming historic pub and boutique hotel in Warwick’s Old Square, blending cosy style, excellent food, and comfortable rooms in a central location.
Tilted Wig
0.4 km
Historic gastropub and cozy inn in Warwick’s Market Place, blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and welcoming accommodation.
The Eagle
0.4 km
A cozy, quirky cellar micro pub in Warwick serving expertly curated real ales and craft beers in an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
Rigsby's Cellar Bar
0.4 km
Cozy cellar charm meets heartfelt hospitality in Warwick’s intimate and quirky Rigsby's Cellar Bar.
The Castle Inn
0.7 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
The Black Pug
0.7 km
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
The Wild Boar
0.8 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
Unicorn
2.0 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Fat Pug
2.9 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
3.4 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
Bedford Street Bar
3.5 km
Lively grill and bar venue in Leamington Spa offering live jazz, classic British dishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere with heated outdoor seating.
The White Horse
3.5 km
A charming blend of historic character and modern comfort, The White Horse offers classic British pub fare and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Royal Horse
3.5 km
A vibrant, family-friendly pub in Royal Leamington Spa offering hearty British fare, lively events, and warm hospitality since 2013.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cavern
1.5 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
3.5 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
3.5 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Smack
3.6 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Caz Bar Nightclub
12.7 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
13.0 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Stratford Play House
13.0 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
13.5 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Club PST
29.5 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Disco Wonderland
29.5 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
29.5 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
The Night Owl
29.5 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
29.6 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Next Door & Spotlight
29.6 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Sector 57
29.8 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly