The
first thing to say about Warwick Castle is that yes, Warwick is historic
and a well preserved castle, not a ruin. But, it is run by the same
company that manages Madame Tussauds and Legoland and is run primarily
as an entertainment.
If your requirement is pure heritage and history you may be disappointed
with the emphasis on entertainment and events mainly aimed at children.
Unless you arrive by tour coach parking is not free at Warwick Castle.
The less expensive car parks involve a 10 minute walk to the main
entrance. Its about a 15 minute walk from the rail station.
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Warwick
Castle |
The
Castle can trace its history back to the 10th Century, but Warwick
acquired the classic moat surrounding a large earth mound supporting
a fort with the Norman's, one of a whole chain of castles across England
that included Windsor Castle.
The 'serious' side of a visit to Warwick revolves around visiting
the Great Hall and rooms adjoining. This is very similar to any tour
of a more 'staid' castle.
The castle walls offer exercise and great views. |
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The
rest of the castle is focused on events that take place throughout
the day. These are biased towards entertaining children, in fact the
Warwick Castle attraction is geared as a family attraction where you
could easily spend the whole day. Its a kind of low key medieval theme
park.
Events like mock fights, demonstrations of medieval weapons and jousting
happen throughout the day. There are demonstrations of archery and
stalls where kids can live out fantasies like archery and sword fighting.
For a family, the extras can work out expensive. The whole setup is
a cash machine, the events keep you within the Castle. In between
the attractions and food can be a constant drip feed from your wallet. |
There
is a wide range of food options, but prices reflect the monopoly Warwick
Castle has over you. The grounds are vast with sweeping lawns with
plenty of space for a picnic. You should find a space of your own,
even at the busiest times to have a family picnic which can be idyllic
on a nice day.
If you aren't towing kids along or you arrive on a coach tour you
will probably spend only a couple of hours at Warwick. |
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