Best Things To Do In Warwick | Visit The Heart Of England
In the heart of England, nestled amidst rolling hills and charming landscapes, lies the historic town of Warwick. This enchanting destination is a true gem, steeped in centuries of history. The star attraction is Warwick Castle and this grand medieval fortress dates back to 1068. Complete with a moat, towering turrets, expansive grounds, and immersive exhibitions, it’s a journey through time that any visitor will absolutely relish.
The town itself is a delightful blend of the old and new; quaint tearooms and traditional pubs sit alongside chic boutiques and eateries.
In this blog we’ll cover some of the best things to do in this Medieval town, so let’s get started.
Warwick Castle
The castle’s story begins in 1068, just two years after the Norman Conquest of England when William the Conqueror established a wooden fort on the site. This fort was later replaced by a stone castle built by William’s successor, Henry de Beaumont, who became the first Earl of Warwick. Over the centuries, the castle has seen numerous modifications and expansions, reflecting the changing times and needs. Its strategic location made it a focal point during historical conflicts, including the War of the Roses in the 15th century. The castle also played a role in the English Civil War in the 17th century, surviving a siege by Parliamentary forces.
Today the castle is open to the public and you can visit the fine state rooms, impressive Great Hall and dungeons, as well as climb up the various towers and ramparts for great views of the surrounding landscape.
The expansive grounds of Warwick Castle offer a multitude of experiences that cater to all interests and ages. From thrilling jousting tournaments, live shows, spellbinding bird of prey demonstrations, and interactive history lessons, to peaceful strolls through the castle grounds, landscaped gardens and along the river. Spending a day at the castle is one of the best things to do in Warwick.
Opening Times: The castle is open every day, apart from Christmas Day, and open hours generally between 10am-4pm. However, the opening hours can vary according to seasons, so check the website.
Food Options: At the castle you can enjoy a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. The Undercroft Restaurant, situated within the castle itself, offers a selection of traditional British dishes. For a quick snack or a casual meal, you can head to the Coach House Restaurant which serves sandwiches, salads, and hot meals.
If you’re looking for something fun and interactive, consider booking the Medieval Dinner Experience where you can enjoy a banquet-style meal while watching live entertainment.
Additionally, there are several snack kiosks scattered around the castle grounds offering light bites and refreshments. However, please note that dining options may vary depending on the season and it’s always best to check the latest updates from the castle’s website.
Overnight Stays: Warwick Castle offers a number of great overnight options to really get get the best out of your visit. The Knight’s Village Lodges, nestled in the castle’s woodland grove, provide an immersive medieval-themed stay, complete with timber furnishings and heraldic decor. Glamping tents are also available in the summer months, and are another fun way to spend time after hours in the castle grounds.
For a more luxurious experience, the Tower Suites situated within the castle itself offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, along with opulent furnishings that transport you back to the castle’s royal past.
Lord Leycester Hospital
In the historic heart of Warwick resides the Lord Leycester Hospital, a remarkable testament to the town’s medieval past. This isn’t a hospital in the modern sense; the term ‘hospital’ refers to its historical function as a place of hospitality for retired military personnel.
These medieval timber-framed buildings, dating back to the 14th century, include a Chapel, the Guildhall and outside is the the Master’s Garden, filled with ancient trees and plants.
The hospital is open to visitors from Tue-Sun from 10am-5pm and tickets can be used for unlimited entry for one year.
Check out the website for information on special events and open days (for free entrance).
Market Square
Market Square has long been the centre of Warwick, serving as a bustling marketplace and public space.
As you wander around, don’t miss the Market Hall Museum, a 17th-century building which houses an exhibition about the Warwickshire area. The museum is open Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm and has free entry.
Market Square and surround streets is a great part of town to eat or drink as there are a number of dining and drinking options for all budgets and tastes.
Collegiate Church of St. Mary
The Collegiate Church of St. Mary is a significant historic landmark and an active parish church. The church was originally founded as a collegiate church, administered by a ‘college’ of a dean and canons, back in 1123.
Visiting the church, you’ll be captivated by its architectural grandeur, including intricate stonework and stunning stained glass windows.
Opening hours are generally Mon-Sat 11am-4pm and Sunday 12-4pm; admission is free.
Please note that as an active place of worship, the church’s opening hours may vary.
St. Nicholas Park & Best View Of Warwick Castle
St. Nicholas Park is a great green space close to the castle for fun activities as well as walks and picnics. The park offers a number of active pursuits including tennis, mini golf, outdoor pool, a fun park with rides and also play area.
The park also has a number of boating rentals, from pedalos, motor boats, canoes and kayaks which allows you to get onto the River Avon and get to close to the castle by river.
If you don’t want to get on a boat to access the great views of the castle, then a short walk away from St. Nicholas Park is a bridge which provides a stunning vantage point for admiring Warwick Castle.
To Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Warwick…
Warwick, is a charming town. From the grandeur of Warwick Castle to visiting key attractions in the town all providing a glimpse into the town’s rich past. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, hiring a boat on the River Avon can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a picture-perfect English town, Warwick promises a memorable visit.
Further FAQs:
How To Get To Warwick
Travelling to Warwick, England, is relatively straightforward due to its well-connected transportation networks. The nearest major airport is Birmingham Airport, which is approximately 20 miles north of Warwick. From there, you can take a taxi or use public transport like trains and buses to reach Warwick.
If you’re traveling by train there are regular services from London and Birmingham.
By road, Warwick is conveniently situated near the M40 motorway, making it easily accessible from many parts of the UK.
How Much Time To Spend In Warwick
The duration of your stay in Warwick will greatly depend on your interests and the pace at which you prefer to explore. However, a typical recommendation would be to allocate between 1-2 days. This allows time to visit the castle and any of the other key attractions that you may be interested in. Many visit Warwick for the day and then move on to other nearby towns such as Stratford Upon Avon, Oxford or the Cotswolds.
Where To Stay In Warwick
In addition to the above mentioned options for staying at Warwick Castle, Warwick has a number of great options depending on your preferences and budget.
If you’re looking for a bit of luxury, The Warwick Arms Hotel, situated in the town, offers great rooms and a restaurant. For a more intimate, boutique experience, The Globe, a beautifully restored 18th-century coaching inn, provides stylish rooms and a renowned gastropub. Budget-conscious travelers might consider The Rose and Crown, which offers comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere. If you prefer a countryside setting, there are a number of great hotels in the surround area.
Finally, for those seeking self-catering options, there are numerous holiday cottages and apartments available for rent in and around Warwick.
Where To Eat In Warwick
Traditional British Fare: The Roebuck Inn is a must-visit for those seeking traditional British dishes. Located in a charming 16th-century building, it offers a cosy atmosphere complemented by hearty dishes such as fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and a variety of pies. Another option is the Rose & Crown, a gastro pub that serves up locally sourced, seasonal dishes. With a lively atmosphere and a menu that changes daily.
International Flavours: Micatto is a highly recommended Italian restaurant serving authentic pasta, pizza, and risotto in a warm and friendly setting. If you fancy some Asian cuisine, Thai Elephant offers a range of delicious dishes from Thailand.
Upscale Dining: For a special treat or celebratory meal, consider dining at The Cross at Kenilworth. This Michelin-starred restaurant, just a short drive from Warwick, offers exquisite dishes with a modern twist.
Vegan & Vegetarian: Fusca, offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Cafes: Coffee #1 is a popular choice for its freshly brewed coffee and selection of sandwiches and pastries. Another great spot is The Tuckery, a charming cafe that offers homemade cakes, sandwiches, and a variety of hot drinks.
For more things to do near Warwick, read our great blog on The Best Things To Do In Stratford-upon-Avon.
For more information on visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, read this blog post on the Best Guided Tours For Visiting Stratford-upon-Avon.
