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Warwick Castle near Birmingham has played an important part in England’s history for more than 1000 years. The
first Castle consisted of a wooden motte, built on the cliff overlooking the river Avon, to protect the small hill top settlement of Warwick against Danish invaders. Throughout the Middle Ages the Castle was rebuilt in stone. It was a
stronghold, but later declined in military importance. The Castle is one of the most impressive ancient fortresses in England. Today its doors are open to visitors to
experience life in medieval England.
Throughout the year there is a programme of fantastic special
events including opportunities to discover the realities of medieval battle or to marvel at the ancient art of falconry as eagles and vultures swoop over the Castle’s turrets.
Further the
visitor gets a genuine taste of medieval life. The activities throughout the summer comprise jousting, archery, displays of a traditional army encampment and the spectacle of the Castle’s 18 m
tall catapult, the world’s largest siege machine, which is shot daily.
In late Victorian society the Castle became a favourite retreat for some of the most important figures of the time. In 1898
it hosted a weekend party. The Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, was the principal guest.
Until 1978 the Castle was the home to the Earls of Warwick, when it was bought by The Tussauds Group. After extensive
restoration work Warwick Castle became one of the top UK tourist attractions.
invaders. Throughout the Middle Ages the Castle was rebuilt in stone. It was a
stronghold, but later declined in military importance. The Castle is one of the most impressive ancient fortresses in England. Today its doors are open to visitors to
experience life in medieval England. 
