England is home to hundreds of historic castles, many of which make for fantastic family days out. From sprawling royal residences to rugged ruined keeps, a visit to an English castle offers a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike. Here are some of the best English castles for a family day out:
Leeds Castle, Kent
Set amidst 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, Leeds Castle is one of the most iconic castles in England. Children will love exploring the maze and grotto, taking a falconry lesson, or going on a knight’s quest adventure trail. Meanwhile, parents can learn about the history of this former Norman stronghold, which has been a royal residence for queens from Eleanor of Castile to Catherine de Valois. Don’t miss the museum’s exhibition on castle life through the ages.
Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
Use some of your foster care allowance to help pay for a trip to Warwick Castle. Immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds and smells of medieval England at Warwick Castle. Kids go wild for shows and attractions like The Trebuchet Fireball Show, The Birds of Prey Show, The Horrible Histories Maze and The Sword in the Stone Show. Warwick is also home to Britain’s first Horrible Histories adventure playground for those who love the popular children’s books. Meanwhile, grown-ups appreciate the impressive interiors, artefacts and views from this 14th-century riverside castle.
Corfe Castle, Dorset
The dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle capture kids’ imaginations as they play at being knights and princesses. Overlooking the Isle of Purbeck, climbing the keep rewards you with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. Make sure to check out the model castle and try on armour in the visitor centre before venturing into the ruins. The quaint village of Corfe Castle is also fun to explore, with its scenic steam railway, craft shops and cafes.
Framlingham Castle, Suffolk
Let imaginations run wild exploring the ramparts and towers of Framlingham Castle, set in the lovely Suffolk countryside. Children can pretend to pull up the drawbridge, fire arrows from the wall walk and explore the great hall and exhibition detailing the castle’s history. The woodland play area, complete with musical instruments, obstacle course and storytelling throne provides hours of outdoor entertainment. Finish the day with a picnic on the lawns or browsing the gift shop’s medieval-themed toys and books.
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland
Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Northumberland coastline, Bamburgh Castle evokes fairytales of knights and dragons. Kids will have a blast crawling through tunnels under the keep, clambering up stairs in the towers and marvelling at the artefacts in the museum. Meanwhile, grown-ups can take in the spectacular sea views and tour the impressive staterooms. Be sure to stroll along the beach below the castle and enjoy home-baked treats at the tea room.
From climbing spiral staircases to watching birds of prey displays, England’s castles spark children’s curiosity about history whilst providing fun days out for families. With so many to choose from across the country, visiting an English castle is an easy way to entertain and educate kids during school holidays or weekends. Just be ready for demands to visit again as children eagerly explore these windows into medieval England.
