Inside the UK’s ‘best’ castle with live jousting tournaments, Zog playground and brand-new medieval-themed hotel
WHEN I told friends and family I was spending the weekend at Warwick Castle, I was met with excitement, which was totally understandable in my opinion.
And that’s because earlier this year, the West Midlands-based castle was named one of the best castles in the UK by Time Out — and it’s easy to see why.
As part of our new Best of British travel series, we’re visiting some of the country’s top-rated attractions – and showcasing exactly what they have to offer.
This week we’re in Warwick, a market town that also happens to be home to Warwick Castle.
It takes just one hour and 30 minutes to reach Warwick on a direct train from London Marylebone, and it’s even closer to the likes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Birmingham.
Since Merlin Entertainments took over management in 2007, Warwick Castle has gone from strength-to-strength, opening a wave of new attractions in recent years, including its Zog Playground.
This sprawling medieval castle has plenty to keep the entire family entertained, including its Horrible Histories Maze and Peacock Garden.
Families should make a beeline to the banks of the River Avon where you’ll be able to watch three spectacular live shows.
Watch a giant trebuchet defend the castle from an enemy invasion during the Legend of the Trebuchet or witness a real-life jousting battle take place before your very eyes.
The Wars of the Roses live packs a whole lot of history into just 30 minutes, and it’s filled with jaw-dropping stunts and ambitious pyro-techniques to boot.
But my favourite show had to be The Falconer’s Quest, watching birds of prey like falcons, owls and eagles swoop low over the heads of the crowds was heart-stopping.
I was both terrified and amazed when a huge black Condor flew just centimetres above my head.
Any history buffs will want to head to the Great Hall where they can learn more about the history of the castle.
And if you’re determined to get your daily step count in, climb the tower ramparts and the motte and Bailey for epic views overlooking Warwickshire.
For a quieter afternoon, away from the crowds, head to the peacock garden where you’ll be able to spot the colourful birds and enjoy a stroll at the same time.
If you really want to relax, then you might want to spend a night at the newly-opened Warwick Castle Hotel, where history, literature, myths and legends all seamlessly collide to create a fun-filled family-friendly overnight stay.
Entering the lobby, we’re met by a huge and mighty animatronic knight on horseback towering over us.
Suddenly, the seemingly ordinary pictures mounted onto the surrounding walls burst into life, firmly instructing us to attempt to pull the sword from the stone that lays at the knight’s feet.
It’s Arthurian folklore with a touch of Harry Potter thrown in – and it paves the way for a truly magical stay from the moment we arrive.
Set within the 64-acre fortress grounds, the new hotel has 60 rooms, designed specifically for families that bring history to life (literally).
Medieval motifs, like a coat of arms, a pair of crossed swords and tapestry-inspired artwork decorate the walls.
Each room comes equipped with a comfy double bed, a set of bunk beds and a small travel cot with plenty of family-friendly touches, including ample room for pushchairs in the entryway and heaps of storage space.
Other practical features include a desk area with a vanity mirror, USB and USB-C charging points next to the plug sockets, a tea and coffee station and a wall-mounted telly.
The castle theme runs throughout every element, even in the en-suite bathroom where tapestry-like pictures cover the walls.
And outside of the bedrooms, even more myth and mystery awaits.
Down by the river, there’s a whole host of activities for little ones to get stuck into including a tiny training camp for knights where they can learn tactical defence skills with a sword.
I was delighted when I bagged a bullseye at the archery station on my first go – although the arrows went flying past on my following attempts.
While the entertainment is largely geared towards younger guests, adults are still catered for at the outdoor Warwick Barrel Bar, serving lagers and IPA on draft as well as canned Pimms and G&Ts or soft drinks.
When you’ve worked up an evening appetite, hotel guests can head to the Knight’s Village, a medieval banquet hall with a carvery buffet station – there’s also pots of pasta and hash brown bites, for pickier eaters.
Continental breakfast is served to overnight guests here too, with a choice of pastries, an English fry-up, fruit and cereal.
Make sure to fill your boots. After all, a budding knight needs to be properly fuelled before they go into battle.
Overnight stays at Warwick Castle Hotel start from £159 for a family of four, including breakfast.
Three other castles to visit in the UK
THE UK is home to some amazing castles - here are some of the best:
Bamburgh Castle
This medieval fortress is built overlooking the stunning Northumberland coast, offering a wonderfully picturesque place to explore some of England’s history.
The castle itself is incredibly well preserved and dates all the way back to the 11th century.
Kenilworth Castle
Brits can find out about sieges and royal scandals at Kenilworth Castle, one of the most famous forts in the country.
The medieval castle has had a fascinating history and was even transformed into an Elizabethan palace.
Today its keep, its Tudor towers and Elizabethan garden are among the sites people can explore.
Edinburgh Castle
Dominating the skyline of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle has been dubbed “defender of the nation” by locals.
Today, the castle is still an active military base, with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo remaining a highlight among visitors.
It’s also home to Scotland’s Crown Jewels as well as other national treasures.