AD - this post is based on a press stay in July 2024 and includes affiliate links. Any shares / edits beyond this have not been asked or paid for. Always check with venue direct for the most up to date info. Evening entertainment will change depending on the time of year.
You can check for the most up-to-date info here: Warwick Castle Website
We recently enjoyed a fantastic weekend at Warwick Castle. We stayed in the recently opened Warwick Castle Hotel, dined in the Knight's Kingdom restaurant, enjoyed free evening entertainment including Archery, Knight School and Face Painting and had the best day at Warwick Castle.
As a price guide, one night in the new Warwick Castle Hotel with breakfast, evening entertainment, parking, WiFi and two days entry to Warwick Castle worked out at £274 for a family of 5 in the summer holidays. Obviously prices and deal fluctuate but I think this offered fantastic value and works out at just under £55pp.
Warwick Castle is open every day (except Christmas Day) for the rest of 2024. You can check current prices and deals here: Stay Overnight at Warwick Castle
Pricing & Deals
Summer Sleepovers at Warwick Castle
Summer Holiday Packages include:
- An overnight stay in the Castle Grounds
- One day entry to Warwick Castle
- Themed evening entertainment
- Breakfast
- WiFi and Parking
Zog Todder Breaks at Warwick Castle
These dedicated breaks are available on selected dates in term time and have been especially designed for pre-schoolers.
This package includes:
Prices start from just £58 per person. Find out more and book here: Book a Zog Break Here This package includes:
- An overnight stay in the Castle grounds
- One day ticket to Warwick Castle (activities can include the Zog playground, Zog Quest, Zog Knight School, Zog Meet & Greet and Zog Shows)
- Zog themed evening entertainment including Meet & Greet and Zog Storytime
- Breakfast
- Complimentary car parking and WiFi
October Half Term at Warwick Castle
October Half Term is a perfect time to visit Warwick Castle with lots of spooky tales and family friendly frights.
October Half Term Packages include:
- An overnight stay in the Castle Grounds
- One day entry to Warwick Castle (discounted second day available)
- Themed evening entertainment
- Breakfast
- WiFi and Parking
Enjoy a magical Christmas at Warwick Castle with their Santa Sleepover package which includes:
- An overnight stay in the Castle grounds
- Breakfast
- Themed evening entertainment
- Storytime with Santa experience
- Elf wake up call with sleigh bells
- One day entry to Warwick Castle
- Car parking and WiFi
- Add ons include a festive evening light trail and ice skating
Top Tips for Visiting Warwick Castle from North East England
Warwick Castle is a 4 - 4.5 hour drive from Newcastle. If visiting for two days, I would advise leaving at 8am, stopping for brunch at around 10:30am and then aiming to arrive at Warwick Castle after lunch. If visiting for one day, you can afford to leave a little later in the day.
Evening entertainment starts at 6pm so try and plan your arrival to be checked in and unpacked before this time.
Check in for most accommodation is 4pm. Make sure you park in the FREE accommodation car park which is a short walk from both the accommodation and Warwick Castle.
Driving down to Warwick Castle we stopped at National Trust Beningbrough Hall and on the way back we stopped at Ferrybridge Services.
It is possible to visit Warwick Castle by train. A trip from Newcastle should take around 4hr 30minutes with a change at Birmingham. A quick price check finds tickets for £189 for 2A, 2C return booked a month in advance using a friends and family railcard. Warwick Castle is around a 10 minute walk from Warwick Train Station.
Check in for most accommodation is 4pm. Make sure you park in the FREE accommodation car park which is a short walk from both the accommodation and Warwick Castle.
Driving down to Warwick Castle we stopped at National Trust Beningbrough Hall and on the way back we stopped at Ferrybridge Services.
It is possible to visit Warwick Castle by train. A trip from Newcastle should take around 4hr 30minutes with a change at Birmingham. A quick price check finds tickets for £189 for 2A, 2C return booked a month in advance using a friends and family railcard. Warwick Castle is around a 10 minute walk from Warwick Train Station.
I definitely recommend downloading the Warwick Castle app before you visit. Use this to plan the shows you'd like to see (and at what times) and then plan the rest of your day around these.
I found Warwick Castle to be as accessible as it could be and was very happy to see accessible play equipment including a wheelchair height sandpit and spaces for wheelchairs at the shows.
Obviously due to the historic nature of the Castle, not everywhere is going to be accessible but I genuinely feel like they do a good job.
Facilities include a wheelchair lift to the state rooms, changing places toilet, free carer tickets and wheelchair / mobility scooter hire. I found there to be lots of available seating around the full site.
You can read more about access here: Accessibility at Warwick Castle
I found Warwick Castle to be as accessible as it could be and was very happy to see accessible play equipment including a wheelchair height sandpit and spaces for wheelchairs at the shows.
Obviously due to the historic nature of the Castle, not everywhere is going to be accessible but I genuinely feel like they do a good job.
Facilities include a wheelchair lift to the state rooms, changing places toilet, free carer tickets and wheelchair / mobility scooter hire. I found there to be lots of available seating around the full site.
You can read more about access here: Accessibility at Warwick Castle
We didn't queue at all at Warwick Castle (and we visited on a very sunny saturday in the summer holidays) and there are plenty of quiet spaces, I think it's a good place to visit with children who have additional needs.
You can take bags and picnics into Warwick Castle but they are subject to a bag check. See a list of prohibited items here: Prohibited Items
Pets are not permitted inside Warwick Castle or the grounds (assistance dogs are of course permitted).
Pets are not permitted inside Warwick Castle or the grounds (assistance dogs are of course permitted).
Warwick Castle Hotel Review
The NEW Warwick Castle Hotel has been finished to a high standard and we loved all of the magical touches which include:
- A Knight on Horseback in the Lobby - guests are invited to remove the sword from the stone and the Knight and Horse will become animated
- Portraits around the lobby which look at you, move and actually talk to you
- A small shop in the hotel lobby with Knight apparel and essentials (including snacks, nappies etc....)
- Themed bedrooms, entertainment and dining
The hotel looks out onto the accommodation car park (which is free for guests to use across the duration of their stay) and it's a short walk.
Bedrooms sleep up to 5 guests (2A, 3C) with a huge double bed (it might be a Kingsize) with a little bit of privacy and bunks with a trundle just behind the half wall.
Rooms are spacious and are equipped with air conditioning, free WiFi, a large Smart TV, en-suite bathroom with bath and shower, plenty of storage and a decent hospitality tray. Check out is a leisurely 11am.
Check in is friendly and you're given a handy map pointing you in the direction of the Knight's Village Dining Hall and evening entertainment.
There are 60 rooms in the hotel and a lift. It felt very secure with a 24 hour reception and a keycard required to access floors.
We had a super comfortable night's sleep and I especially liked the quality of the duvets. It felt like these rooms were very practical with everything you need (including plugs and light sockets by the bed - hurrah) yet are still a fun place to stay too.
Free evening entertainment was included with our break from 6pm - 8pm. It was WAY better than expected and such a good atmosphere.
The entertainment takes place down by the river (there are covered areas) just a short walk from the hotel.
First of all, there is a paid bar and food stall and I enjoyed a glass of pimms as Jack played.
We spent a full day at the castle and were there from opening to closing and managed to watch all of the main shows, visit inside the castle and a few other bits and bobs. I missed out on a guided tour which looked brilliant and we didn't watch the Zog shows, try the Princess Experience, visit the Dungeons or walk the Castle Walls.
I think a one day visit does work if you can be there from opening to closing and miss out some of the bits that aren't age-appropriate for your group but if you want to see and do everything, you'll need two days.
I thought this play area was really well done with accessible equipment, excellent theming throughout, a viewing platform for parents and a drinks / snacks kiosk.
The playland is suitable for up to age 10.
You can pick up a Zog Quest Challenge Booklet on arrival and complete all of the Zog challenges. At the end you'll receive a special star. This was super cute - you can learn to roar, breathe fire and even fly. All in your own time across the day.
The 'Falconer's Quest' Bird of Prey Show is incredible and although not as impressive as the Bird Show at Puy du Fou, is the most impressive I have seen in the UK. It's repeated across the day with seating on benches or the grass.
We follow the story of the Falconer who joined Warwick Castle and introduced lots of birds - we meet them and hear their story and are wowed as they swoop over our heads.
I won't ruin the ending but it's spectacular - you won't want to miss this show.
We saved War of the Roses for the end of the day and are pleased we did as we ended on a real high.
As you join the stands, you can join house of Lancaster or York. Each team faces each other in the arena and you can expect lots of crowd participation with cheering, booing and chanting.
Somehow the 30 year War of the Roses is condensed into 30 minutes of non-stop action. Expect sword fighting, jousting, stunts, spectacular horsemanship, death, fire, victory.......it's such a good show and a real highlight from our day. I learned a thing or two as well.
The crowd are so close to the action and you do get a real buzz.
Next it was the Kingmaker where you learn more about how Richard Neville prepared his army for battle in 1471.
There is a Princess Tower Experience which we didn't try but looked popular with little ones.
The State Rooms are some of the best I've seen. Absolutely glorious with weapons, armour and paintings on display.
You can also walk through the Royal Weekend Party and discover how the Castle would party during Victorian High Society.
We enjoyed a walk along the river to the Millhouse and Waterwheel which was lovely to see.
We spent time visiting the Peacocks in the Peacock Garden and watching traditional Morris Dancers on the lawn which was fun.
Everything mentioned above was included with admission however there are some add-ons too including:
Archery (£5)
Jousting (£5)
Dungeons (£6)
You can just book these on arrival but I personally don't think they are needed - you'll have a great day without the additional spend.
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We had a super comfortable night's sleep and I especially liked the quality of the duvets. It felt like these rooms were very practical with everything you need (including plugs and light sockets by the bed - hurrah) yet are still a fun place to stay too.
FREE Evening Entertainment at Warwick Castle
Evening entertainment does vary depending on the type of break you book. This is based on the summer holidays.Free evening entertainment was included with our break from 6pm - 8pm. It was WAY better than expected and such a good atmosphere.
The entertainment takes place down by the river (there are covered areas) just a short walk from the hotel.
First of all, there is a paid bar and food stall and I enjoyed a glass of pimms as Jack played.
If you didn't want to book a meal in the Knight's Village, takeaway food is available from a stand here including BBQ chicken, hot dogs, nachos and popcorn. Payment is with card / contactless.
The entertainment is fabulous with Knight's School, walk-about characters, face painting, archery, Medieval games and more. It's all included at no additional charge. EVEN the face painting which I will admit was a shock!
The atmosphere was fab with kids having a brill time and adults chilling out and relaxing as they enjoyed themselves.
You don't need to book the evening entertainment and it's exclusive to overnight guests. Just drop by and join in.
The atmosphere was fab with kids having a brill time and adults chilling out and relaxing as they enjoyed themselves.
You don't need to book the evening entertainment and it's exclusive to overnight guests. Just drop by and join in.
The Knight's Village Evening Meal & Breakfast at Warwick Castle
I must admit I'm not usually a fan of buffet dining but was genuinely impressed with the Knight's Village. This is an optional add-on and priced between £7.75 and £26.75 for three courses.
I didn't take any photos of our evening meals as they weren't very photogenic but we started with some fresh bread, then it was a carvery with a decent selection (plus a kids section with things like pasta and fish fingers) then a dessert bar with big cakes (including Black Forest Gateaux) and inividual desserts like mini cheesecakes and triffles.
Not exactly Michelin Star but as far as buffets go, it was really good and felt like pretty good quality / was flavoursome.
I didn't take any photos of our evening meals as they weren't very photogenic but we started with some fresh bread, then it was a carvery with a decent selection (plus a kids section with things like pasta and fish fingers) then a dessert bar with big cakes (including Black Forest Gateaux) and inividual desserts like mini cheesecakes and triffles.
Not exactly Michelin Star but as far as buffets go, it was really good and felt like pretty good quality / was flavoursome.
Book your evening meal with a link sent with your confirmation or you can book here: Evening Meal Reservations
Breakfast is included with your stay when staying at the hotel and again, as far as breakfasts go was really good. Plenty of pastries, fruit, yoghurts and pastries plus a nice hot selection which was one of the better buffet breakfasts I've had in a while. There were milk alternatives available as standard.
The only downside were the drinks selection - the fruit juice was very diluted and the coffee came out of the machine cold. Hopefully this was just a one off.
The only downside were the drinks selection - the fruit juice was very diluted and the coffee came out of the machine cold. Hopefully this was just a one off.
Other Accommodation Options at Warwick Castle
Woodland and Knight Lodges
Set on the bank of the River Avon within the Castle Grounds, Woodland and Knight Lodges sleep up to 5 or 7 guests. Expect a double bed, bunk beds, bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities and an additional sofa bed in lodges which sleep 7.
Find out more and check prices / book: Woodland and Knight Lodges at Warwick Castle
Find out more and check prices / book: Woodland and Knight Lodges at Warwick Castle
Medieval Glamping at Warwick Castle
These Medieval Glamping Tents sleep up to 4 (a double bed and 2 single beds) with a luxury upgrade to a King's Tent available (four poster bed, outdoor canopy, table and thrones). Both have space for a travel cot and luggage and communal showers are a short walk away.
Find out more here: Check Medieval Glamping Prices at Warwick Castle
Find out more here: Check Medieval Glamping Prices at Warwick Castle
Caeser's Tower Suites
For the ultimate indulgence, you can stay inside the Castle in a tower suite. Expect luxury touches including champagne on arrival, a private tour of the castle and concierge service.
Find out more and book: Check prices for Warwick Castle Tower Suites
Find out more and book: Check prices for Warwick Castle Tower Suites
A Day at Warwick Castle
We had a fantastic day at Warwick Castle. We visited with 2 adults and a 13 year old although I did try some of the Zog stuff for review purposes too.We spent a full day at the castle and were there from opening to closing and managed to watch all of the main shows, visit inside the castle and a few other bits and bobs. I missed out on a guided tour which looked brilliant and we didn't watch the Zog shows, try the Princess Experience, visit the Dungeons or walk the Castle Walls.
I think a one day visit does work if you can be there from opening to closing and miss out some of the bits that aren't age-appropriate for your group but if you want to see and do everything, you'll need two days.
Zog Fun at Warwick Castle
Zog is a big deal at Warwick Castle and there is lots of Zog fun included with your visit, starting with the Zog Playland which you will see on arrival.
I thought this play area was really well done with accessible equipment, excellent theming throughout, a viewing platform for parents and a drinks / snacks kiosk.
You can pick up a Zog Quest Challenge Booklet on arrival and complete all of the Zog challenges. At the end you'll receive a special star. This was super cute - you can learn to roar, breathe fire and even fly. All in your own time across the day.
Plus there are Zog Meet & Greets, Shows and Zog's Knight School at selected times across the day. Check the app or notice boards for timings.
Horrible Histories Maze at Warwick Castle
The Horrible Histories Maze was brilliant fun for all ages - just drop in and enjoy at any point during the day.
On arrival, pick up your time passport. You then need to find 6 different time periods throughout the maze and stamp your passport when you find them. You can leave the maze when you have successfully completed your passport.
The theming throughout is excellent. For example there is a Viking Boat play area in the Viking section and barrels of 'gunpowder' around the gunpowder plot.
You'll also find lots of gruesome and fascinating facts which kids will love.
As well as additional games and challenges dotted throughout.
And of course, plenty of photo opportunities.
Once your passport has been completed and you're a verified time traveller, you can leave the maze. There is a fun exit just for kids which of course, a lot of the adults couldn't resist trying too.
Birds of Prey at Warwick Castle
The 'Falconer's Quest' Bird of Prey Show is incredible and although not as impressive as the Bird Show at Puy du Fou, is the most impressive I have seen in the UK. It's repeated across the day with seating on benches or the grass.
We follow the story of the Falconer who joined Warwick Castle and introduced lots of birds - we meet them and hear their story and are wowed as they swoop over our heads.
I won't ruin the ending but it's spectacular - you won't want to miss this show.
Trebuchet at Warwick Castle
I have seen several Trebuchet at various castles across the UK but I've never seen one in action. This show provides the chance to see just that and it's truly spectacular and really interesting to learn more about how this machine works.
War of the Roses at Warwick Castle
We saved War of the Roses for the end of the day and are pleased we did as we ended on a real high. As you join the stands, you can join house of Lancaster or York. Each team faces each other in the arena and you can expect lots of crowd participation with cheering, booing and chanting.
Somehow the 30 year War of the Roses is condensed into 30 minutes of non-stop action. Expect sword fighting, jousting, stunts, spectacular horsemanship, death, fire, victory.......it's such a good show and a real highlight from our day. I learned a thing or two as well.
The crowd are so close to the action and you do get a real buzz.
Inside Warwick Castle
There are several areas to visit inside the Castle and you can just drop in and explore at your leisure. First of all, we visited the Gaol which was super eery!
Next it was the Kingmaker where you learn more about how Richard Neville prepared his army for battle in 1471.
There is a Princess Tower Experience which we didn't try but looked popular with little ones.
The State Rooms are some of the best I've seen. Absolutely glorious with weapons, armour and paintings on display.
You can also walk through the Royal Weekend Party and discover how the Castle would party during Victorian High Society.
We enjoyed a walk along the river to the Millhouse and Waterwheel which was lovely to see.
We didn't have time to walk the castle towers and walls but I bet the views are brilliant - next time!
Food & Drinks Options at Warwick Castle
There are quite a few options for food & drink at Warwick Castle including some local providers - on the day of our visit a local business was sellong Cinnamon Buns and coffee from their truck which went down a treat.
There are lots of food trucks and places to stop for a drink or ice cream plus a water refill station down by the bridge over to the Trebuchet.
It's card / contactless and some prices were expensive (slushies were £5) where as others weren't too bad (fish and chips £10). There were minimal queues at the food outlets and service was friendly and slick. Plenty of picnic table style seating too.
It's card / contactless and some prices were expensive (slushies were £5) where as others weren't too bad (fish and chips £10). There were minimal queues at the food outlets and service was friendly and slick. Plenty of picnic table style seating too.
I really liked the look of the Victoria Teahouse overlooking the Peacock Garden and think I will try there next time.
Find out more about food & drink options: Food & Drink at Warwick Castle
Find out more about food & drink options: Food & Drink at Warwick Castle
Other Fun at Warwick Castle
We spent time visiting the Peacocks in the Peacock Garden and watching traditional Morris Dancers on the lawn which was fun.
Everything mentioned above was included with admission however there are some add-ons too including:
Archery (£5)
Jousting (£5)
Dungeons (£6)
You can just book these on arrival but I personally don't think they are needed - you'll have a great day without the additional spend.
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