Last week’s post about King Arthur and the Knights of the Roundtable has put me in a bit of a ‘swords-and-sorcery’ mood. If you’re anything like me, you’ve daydreamed of being a medieval knight more than once or twice. So, when I discovered the amazing events going on at Warwick Castle I just had to write about them.
This week, I want to tell you all about this amazing 12th-century fortress and the fantastic re-enactments, displays, and experiences that you can explore. Let’s learn a little bit one of the UK’s best historical attractions. The Medieval world of Warwick Castle
One thousand years of history
The beginnings of Warwick Castle were humble. When Danish invaders started ransacking villages throughout the British Isles, King Alfred the Great ordered his men to build a small wooden fort to protect the settlement of Warwick. As the years went by, the strategic significance of this location became more apparent, and King’s such as William the Conqueror added to its defenses. By 1395, the castle’s Guy’s Tower was completed, reaching a height of 39 meters. Ever since, the castle has been a witness to all sorts of battles and clandestine incidents, from murders to imprisonments, wars and fires. The castle withstood a siege during the English Civil War and still has messages from Royalist soldiers etched into its walls.
Dive into the Castle Dungeons
The world of the past is fascinating, but it also has a dark side. Explore the grisly side of life in medieval England with an exploration of the castle dungeons. It’s perfect for kids and adults with a fascination with the macabre. Visit at Halloween for a truly spooky experience.
Staying at the castle
The castle is open for day visitors but also has overnight stay options for those looking to immerse themselves in the castle’s medieval world. Stay in a comfortable wooden lodge near the fortress or have a go at “Medieval Glamping” – luxury camping in the style of a Medieval knight. There are even suites in the castle itself for those looking for a high-end retreat experience.
The War of the Roses
Warwick Castle has a national reputation for the quality of its historical re-enactments and performances. In their remarkable War of the Roses event, you can get a look into what life would have been like at court in 1455 whilst learning about the significance of this defining moment in British history. Experience a live Medieval tournament with jousting, sword fighting and stunt riding – it’s an astonishing display!
Meet the Dragon Slayer
The UK isn’t just a land of rich cultural heritage – it’s also a land of myth and legend. Adventure into a land of fantasy and experience the tale of the Dragon Slayer in this live show combining an immersive dining experience, fire jousting, live stunts and an astonishing light display on the walls of the castle. It’s one of the most unique experiences you can find in the UK.
You can visit Warwick Castle as a part of our tours of Oxford, the Cotswolds and Shakespeare’s England. These day tours out of London give you a simple, comfortable way to explore the best locations around the capital and get a slice of iconic British culture.
