Warwick, the county town of Warwickshire, is a historic market town that sits on the River Avon in the heart of England. Founded by the Saxons in the 6th century, Warwick grew in importance during the Middle Ages and was granted a charter by King John in 1216.
The town’s famous castle – Warwick Castle – was built in the 11th century and played an important role in the English Civil War.
Today it is a popular tourist destination, combining medieval architecture and historic attractions with stunning gardens, independent shops and an abundance of fantastic places to eat and drink. There’s plenty to see and do, and our guide is designed to help you make the very best of your stay.
Warwick is a town steeped in history with many unique attractions that all the family will enjoy.
The magnificent Warwick Castle attracts thousands of visitors all year round. With more than 1,100 years of jaw-dropping history, magic, myth and adventure it’s a full day out by itself!
Set within 64 acres of stunning grounds the castle has plenty to keep you busy – explore the beautiful 15th century state rooms and Great Hall. Climb the impressive ramparts and tower for breath-taking views. Watch a spectacular falconry display, or let the little ones enjoy the Zog Playland and the Horrible Histories maze.
Within the town itself you will find the fascinating Lord Leycester Hospital. Clustered around the Norman gateway to the town, the hospital was built in 1300s, and is one of the most important examples of intact medieval architecture in the UK. The buildings were originally built by the Guilds of Warwick and were their home for nearly 200 years. In the Elizabethan era the buildings became a place of retirement for old warriors. These soldiers are known to this day as the Brethren and with the Master, still live within the walls of the building.
Another historic gem is Hill Close Gardens. The gardens are a unique example of the once-common Victorian detached pleasure garden – distinctly different from allotments – with their characteristic summer houses, hedge lines, pathways and orchards. Stroll around the 16 gardens with a variety of plants and designs and enjoy a hot drink and snack in the onsite Tearoom.
Warwick is home to several museums. The Fusilier Museum Warwick is a newly refurbished family-friendly museum that tells the personal stories of soldiers in the local area. It covers the 350 years of the Royal Warwickshire’s history – from their beginnings in 1674 to the World Wars and more recent conflicts in Northern Ireland and Afghanistan.
Market Hall Museum is located right in the heart of the town in the 17th-century Market Hall. With free admission and exhibitions telling the story of Warwickshire, highlights of its collection include the infamous Warwickshire Bear and the amazing South Warwickshire Roman Hoards. It’s well worth a visit.
St Mary’s Church dominates the Warwick skyline with its 134-foot tower. People have worshipped on the site for over 1,000 years and the Beauchamp Chapel has been described as “one of the masterpieces of medieval art”. The church also has a Norman Crypt dating back to 1123 AD.
The church is open to visitors on most days, and you can book a tour to explore the story of The Collegiate Church of St Mary for £5 per person.
There are some fantastic parks and green spaces to explore.
Priory Park offers tranquil natural open space with meadows and woodland walks to explore. The park is managed for its wildlife and biodiversity.
St. Nicholas Park is a great place for families. There’s a range of activities and facilities including a crazy golf course, an outdoor paddling pool, amusement rides and boats for hire (summer only). There’s also a café and a leisure centre too.
The Mill Garden, found at the bottom of Mill Street, has a breathtaking position on the banks of the River Avon, below the imposing walls of Warwick Castle. The garden is renowned for the quality of its flowers.
For something different, why not try the Guy of Warwick Trail?
Guy of Warwick, a bit like Robin Hood and King Arthur, is more legend than history. His story has been told and re-told over the centuries, and was popular in England and France from the 13th to 17th centuries.
The free trail, launched by the Guy of Warwick Society, includes an augmented reality app and nine posters to find to learn about the life and adventures of Guy of Warwick.
You can download a pdf of the trail here.
There’s a great selection of places to eat and drink. From independent coffee shops to country pubs and contemporary restaurants there is something for all occasions and budgets. We’ve highlighted a few of our top picks below.
The Dough and Brew’ situated right in the town centre, serves sourdough pizza and freshly made pastas in a relaxed atmosphere along with a selection of local craft beers and delicious wines. Their emphasis is always on flavour, and they use locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
For your elevenses, why not try Jack’s Shack? An independent coffee shop that offers award winning coffee and fabulous cakes as well as a range of teas, smoothies and light lunch options like freshly made bagels and toasties.
If you’re looking for a pub meal, we recommend the Rose & Crown tucked away in the corner of Market Place. Serving fresh, quality, seasonal food daily it’s the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The pub has a lively bar too for those looking for somewhere to spend the evening.
If you venture a little further afield to Royal Leamington Spa, you’ll find The Warwickshire Gin Company.
Try a Gin Tasting Experience and learn the history and traditional process of gin making in a distillery tour and, of course, sample some of their award-winning range. Or try a selection of gin cocktails as part of their Cocktails at the Distillery experience. Either way you’ll enjoy a relaxing evening in a friendly and contemporary atmosphere!
For a full list of places to eat and drink across Warwickshire take a look at the Shakespeare’s England directory here.
Warwick has some unique places to stay. If you’re looking for the freedom of camping (or glamping!) or a bit of five-star luxury there’s plenty to choose from in and around the town.
How about a stay on the grounds of Warwick Castle? The Knight’s Village with beautiful views of the River Avon is a top choice for a family getaway. Stay in a Woodland Lodge or in a medieval-themed glamping tent nestled in a stunning woodland setting. With a medieval banqueting hall styled restaurant and real-life knights to meet, there’s lots to keep the kids entertained.
For something a little more sumptuous, there’s The Globe. A Grade II Listed inn conveniently located in the heart of the market town, The Globe is a lovely choice for couples and families alike. Offering a comfortable and relaxing stay, The Globe has a travel-themed bar and restaurant offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu – perfect after a day of shopping and sightseeing.
Just outside Warwick in Royal Leamington Spa is the stunning Mallory Court Country House Hotel. The hotel is one of Warwickshire’s finest luxury hotels set in 10 acres of grounds with an award-winning restaurant and luxurious spa on site. The quintessentially English hotel is hard to beat – offering guests exceptional hospitality, unrivalled facilities and magnificent surroundings.
For a full list of places to stay across Warwickshire take a look at the Shakespeare’s England directory here.
Warwick hosts many festivals every year – from the Warwick Folk Festival in July, to a music festival, food festival and the Classic Car Show in August.
For a full list of what’s on in Warwick and across Warwickshire take a look at the Shakespeare’s England directory here.
By Car
Warwick is easily accessible from the M40 and A46. There are plenty of car parks in the town centre. For details, please visit the Warwick District Council website.
By Train
Warwick can be reached via train from Birmingham and London with trains running every 1 -2 hours. The train station is a 10 minutes walk from the castle and town centre.
For more information and timetables visit the Chiltern Railways or West Midlands Railway websites.
Warwick Castle
CV34 4QU
warwick-castle.com
Lord Leycester Hospital
60 High Street, CV34 4BH
lordleycester.com
Hill Close Gardens
Bread and Meat Close, CV34 6HF
hillclosegardens.com
The Fusilier Museum Warwick
Jury Street, CV34 4EW
fusiliermuseumwarwick.com
Market Hall Museum
Market Place, CV34 4SA
heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk
St Mary’s Church
Old Square, CV34 4RA
stmaryswarwick.org.uk
The Warwickshire Gin Company
13, Victoria Business Centre, Neilston Street, Leamington Spa, CV31 2AZ
warwickshiregincompany.co.uk
St Nicholas Park
CV34 4QY
stnicholaspark.co.uk
Get entry to Warwickshire’s finest attractions for one great price!
Get entry to Warwickshire’s finest attractions for one great price!
Warwick hosts many festivals every year – from the Warwick Folk Festival in July, to a music festival, food festival and the Classic Car Show in August.
For a full list of what’s on in Warwick and across Warwickshire take a look at the Shakespeare’s England directory here.
By Car
Warwick is easily accessible from the M40 and A46. There are plenty of car parks in the town centre. For details, please visit the Warwick District Council website.
By Train
Warwick can be reached via train from Birmingham and London with trains running every 1 -2 hours. The train station is a 10 minutes walk from the castle and town centre.
For more information and timetables visit the Chiltern Railways or West Midlands Railway websites.
Warwick Castle
CV34 4QU
warwick-castle.com
Lord Leycester Hospital
60 High Street, CV34 4BH
lordleycester.com
Hill Close Gardens
Bread and Meat Close, CV34 6HF
hillclosegardens.com
The Fusilier Museum Warwick
Jury Street, CV34 4EW
fusiliermuseumwarwick.com
Market Hall Museum
Market Place, CV34 4SA
heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk
St Mary’s Church
Old Square, CV34 4RA
stmaryswarwick.org.uk
The Warwickshire Gin Company
13, Victoria Business Centre, Neilston Street, Leamington Spa, CV31 2AZ
warwickshiregincompany.co.uk
St Nicholas Park
CV34 4QY
stnicholaspark.co.uk
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