Not Windsor or Bamburgh – UK’s ‘best’ castle is 958 years old | UK | News
The stone castle that visitors see today was largely rebuilt in the 13th and 14th centuries (Image: Getty)
England is full of many historic castles. Windsor Castle is one of the most famous in the world. Bamburgh Castle rises above the Northumberland coast. Lincoln and Dover are also among visitors’ favorites.
However, none of them were chosen as the best in the country. A medieval castle has taken the top spot after more than 17,000 reviews, according to TripAdvisor’s traveler favorites rankings. Windsor Castle was second, Bamburgh seventh, Lincoln eighth and Dover 10th.
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The castle is located on a sandstone cliff overlooking the River Avon. (Image: Getty)
However, it is Warwick Castle that has been voted the best castle in the UK and is rated 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Warwick Castle is 958 years old as a castle. The original motte-and-bailey structure was built by William the Conqueror in 1068.
The site itself goes back even further, with early fortifications dating back to 914.
The stone castle that visitors see today was largely rebuilt in the 13th and 14th centuries. It sits on a sandstone cliff overlooking the River Avon in Warwickshire and has served as a castle, royal residence and later a large country house.
Visitors can climb the towers and tour the walls, including Guy’s Tower and Caesar’s Tower.
The Great Hall and State Rooms are filled with armor, paintings and historical furniture. The Mound, the oldest part of the castle, offers extensive views of the surrounding countryside.
There are also many events happening throughout the day. Falconer’s Quest is one of the UK’s largest bird of prey shows. A huge catapult is also fired on selected days.
Warwick Castle is 958 years old as a castle (Image: Getty)
Castle Dungeon offers a vibrant player experience with special effects, recommended for older children and adults.
Families can explore the Horrible Histories Maze or visit Zog Playland. There are also seasonal events and shows held at different times of the year.
For those who wish to stay longer, overnight accommodation options are available on site. Warwick Castle Hotel offers medieval-themed rooms.
Knight Village has woodland lodges and seasonal glamping tents near the river. Tower Suites, located inside the 14th-century Caesar’s Tower, are also available.
The castle is located in Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 6AU. It is approximately a 1 mile walk from Warwick train station and close to the M40.
According to the official website, booking online is cheaper than paying at the door.
According to those who visited, it was a great day. (Image: Getty)
Individual day tickets start from £22 to £26 when booked in advance. Day tickets cost £39. Under twos are free but still need a ticket.
Family tickets start from £86 for four people. Entrance to the Castle Dungeon costs extra. All tickets include a Rainy Day Promise, which allows visitors to return for free within 60 days if it rains for more than an hour during their visit.
Those who visited did not spare their praise.
In a review on TripAdvisor, one person said: “This is a great day out and offers so much more than just the castle. There are lots of shows going on throughout the day and interactive things for the kids. Be sure to pick up a schedule at the entrance detailing all the times of the shows.”
Another added: “We had a great day out as a family at Warwick Castle. Even though it was crowded there, the venue is large enough that it never felt crowded. I would definitely recommend the falconry show; it was truly impressive. Also the Dungeon experience was really worth it, scary but excellent acting and a huge topic of discussion afterwards.”
A third wrote: “Warwick Castle is one of those places that truly exceeds expectations, and given how high those expectations were, that’s no small feat. A magnificent, immersive day from start to finish. The castle itself is filled with history at every turn.”
Another commented: “Fantastic experience. Very interesting place to visit and the friendliness of every member of staff made us feel very welcome. Be prepared for a lot of steps, but it’s worth it!”
Click here for more information and tickets.
