Warwick Castle

Where: Warwick Castle, Warwick, Warwickshire, England.

CV34 4QU

Information Line (recorded): 0870 442 2000

What's on offer:

DESCRIBED as Britain's Greatest Mediaeval Experience, Warwick Castle boasts fascinating attractions and a full programme of events for all the family. The baronial Great Hall and six lavishly decorated State Rooms are at the very heart of the Castle and bring to life the history of its treasures, including an impressive display of arms and armour newly exhibited in the Great Hall.

Descend into the airless depths of the dungeon, scale the towers and ramparts and enjoy stunning views of the Castle and the town of Warwick. The 12th Century Mill and Engine House brought electric light to the Castle for the first time in 1894 and you can also join Richard Neville, Kingmaker and Earl of Warwick as he prepares his extensive household for the Battle of Barnet in 1471.

Journey through a meticulous recreation of a Victorian house party and see some of the most respected figures of society in the late 1800s. Experience the drama, noise and adrenaline-charged terror of mediaeval battle through the dreams of William, a 12-year-old page, as he sleeps the night before setting off to fight for the Earl of Warwick in the most decisive battle of the Castle's history.

Then step outside and discover the 60 acres of grounds and gardens. Savour the 'Capability' Brown landscape of the Pageant Field with the conservatory and the Peacock Garden to the beautiful Rose Garden and the River Island where a menagerie was once housed.

Opening Times:

The Castle is open every day (except Christmas Day), Last admission half an hour before closing.

How to get there:

M5, Junc 6 or 7 from Worcester, M42, M40, Junc 15 and follow the brown signs for Warwick Castle.

Prices:

These prices are from 5th July - 2nd September (Peak Season) and vary throughout the year.

On the day and telephone prices: Adult £17.95; Senior £12.95; Student £15.95; Child £10.95; Family £52.

Online prices: Adult £17.05; Senior £12.30; Student £15.15; Child £10.40; Family £49.40.

Review:

Glorious sunshine made for a hectic but enjoyable and varied visit that included horses, birds of prey and the odd ghost or two.

I even spotted a parrot - snooker player John - as I made my way to watch the Winged Warriors that was certainly the highlight of the day as eagles and vultures swooped low over the crowds from the towers and turrets.

The jousting tournament that had gone before gave a hint of bygone days and it was history that formed a major part of the day's offerings. A walk up the towers and ramparts and a visit to the dungeon started off the tour that literally - almost came to life in the Kingmaker exhibition! It was far too nice to stay inside so, with a well-planned schedule of outside entertainment on offer, it was onward to the River Island for the Trebuchet - the world's biggest siege machine that shoots twice daily in a jaw-dropping spectacle.

There's a bowman showing off his skills and the children can even have a go and even learn how to fight with a sword - plastic one obviously.

The latter two options are an added cost as is the Warwick Ghosts - Alive that left my 12-year-old daughter in tears. Not one for the faint-hearted.

However, don't be frightened off by that and, with special entertainment for Hallowe'en and ice skating in December, there's plenty to entertain both young and old in the coming months.