1066. It’s a year burnt into the brain of every English person. When William the Conqueror invaded these lands and took the crown for himself—quickly establishing castles across the country to control a hostile Anglo-Saxon people, with one of the finest still standing just 30 minutes from Birmingham.
Warwick Castle was originally a wooden fort built in 1068, rebuilt in stone during the 12th century, and has withstood The Anarchy, the Wars of the Roses, and the English Civil Wars. Today, it remains one of England’s finest and largest castles, but repurposed as a modern tourism attraction.
The Grade I listed building now attracts half a million tourists each year, with everything from Britain’s biggest working trebuchet to live jousting competitions, guided tours of the dungeons, and breathtaking views from the Mound (the oldest surviving part of the castle) stretching all the way to Warwick town…
Ah, Warwick…
Sitting in the shadow of its iconic castle, this historic medieval market town actually predates the arrival of England’s first Norman king—with Neolithic origins, Roman settlements and connections to Æthelstan, the first King of England. Intrinsically tied to Warwick Castle, it is also worth visiting for itself.
You will find a hatful of quirky military museums in Warwick, including the Warwickshire Yeomanry Museum, the Museum of the Queen’s Royal Hussars, and the Fusilier Museum Warwick. But my favourite museum—with displays on geology and history—is located in the 17th-century Market Hall.
Elsewhere in the town, remember to check out the breathtaking Mill Garden on the banks of the River Avon, while you will find a colourful canal urban fringe park (with a contemplation area and sensory garden) on the Saltisford Arm of the Grand Union Canal, if you’re looking for respite in Warwick.
Other highlights include Lord Leycester Hospital, a row of 14th-century timber-framed buildings, and St. Mary’s Church with a historic crypt. But from the thrills of Warwick Racecourse (open since 1707) to incredible restaurants like Hem, as well as traditional pubs, independent boutiques, and an open-air market every Saturday, there’s something for everyone in Warwick.
How do I get there?
There is a regular, direct train from Birmingham Moor Street to Warwick that takes less than 30 minutes. If driving, it will take closer to 50 minutes, following the M6, M42 and M40 to Budbrooke, and taking exit 15 to A429 in Warwick.
