Wander Through The Historic Attractions In Warwick, England
Wandering through Warwick feels like being transported back to Medieval England as every turn you take brings you face to face with incredible historic attractions. Even after suffering from a devastating fire in 1694 that destroyed most buildings, the town carefully reconstructed itself and has retained its old English allure.
So much of the world is developing into skyscrapers and glass buildings, and while there are benefits to such architecture, losing the charm of old brick buildings is tragic. Therefore, take advantage of the beautiful, historic beauty that Warwick still has to offer before it is too late.
Travel and Accommodation In Warwick
The best way to get to Warwick is by National Rail from any major city such as London and Birmingham and arrive at Warwick Station. Warwick is a very typical town in England, in that, most attractions are within a 30 minute walk from there, with the castle itself only being 15 minutes away.
Accommodation mostly consists of independent hotels and lodges, all located close to the main attractions and buzzing town centre. Some of the most popular places include:
Six Historic Attractions In Warwick, England
Here is a list of 6 places you must explore that will make you feel like you have been dropped straight into a Shakespearean play or Brontë novel:
Warwick Castle
Easily the most popular tourist attraction here, and one of the U.K.’s top attractions overall, this massive battlement-crowned fortress has roots tracing back to the time of William the Conqueror. Notable features include the castle’s dungeon from the 14th century, a full-scale working trebuchet and the country’s second-largest collection of old weapons and armour. The extensive estate also boasts several gardens, including a rose garden, a peacock reserve and a Horrible Histories maze.
Between December and January, there is also an opportunity to enjoy walking through a light trail and participate in ice skating, while the summer brings about vibrant festivals, perfect for a family affair.
PS. Warwick Castle is one the most beautiful of its kind near London, which makes it the perfect day trip from the country’s capital.
Hill Close Gardens
This lush environment is a network of 16 fully restored Victorian gardens, with high hedges between the quaint summerhouses, old fruit trees, and gorgeous flowerbeds. They are the only surviving gardens of this kind in the U.K.
Warwick Old Town
Wandering around Warwick’s old town is the perfect way to explore evolving beauty of English architecture are you come face-to-face with buildings from different eras across the past centuries. Points of interest include the Georgian ballroom inside the Court House, Landor House, and the lovely Shire Hall with its octagonal tower lantern. The West Gate has also been retained from the old town walls.
If possible, you must experience the bustling Saturday Market, which is a Warwick tradition that has been held in Market Square for over 500 years. Sample delightful treats and buy locally grown produce to support the residents, or even venture out onto Swan and Smith Streets to the boutique shops.
Lord Leycester Hospital
This is a series of magnificent half-timbered medieval buildings dating back to 1383 that became a charitable home for ageing soldiers and their spouses in 1571, while today, much of the complex is used for ceremonies, private functions, and even as a film set.
It also houses the Regimental Museum of The Queen’s Own Hussars, a fascinating collection providing a comprehensive history from its foundation in the 17th century to present day, as well as its role in the Battle of Waterloo.
Collegiate Church of St Mary’s
Although largely destroyed in the 1693 fire, several stunning elements of the church did survive – including the Beauchamp Chapel which is a masterpiece of Medieval architecture. Meanwhile, the 40-metres tall church tower dominates the Warwick skyline and offers fantastic views after climbing 134 steps to the top.
Charlecote Park
Like many attractions in this region, the Charlecote Park is perhaps most famous for its connection to Shakespeare. Legend states that a young William Shakespeare was caught poaching deer at Charlecote and was brought infront of Sir Thomas Lucy I, the local magistrate. He escaped punishment and some believe that the character of Justice Shallow in The Merry Wives of Windsor is a parody of Sir Thomas Lucy.
The nearby Tudor mansion preserves Victorian-era décor and furnishings, an extensive library, a Victorian operating kitchen and unspoiled laundrette.
Average Cost For A Day Trip To Warwick Per Person
Transport (train from London + local travel): £20
Accommodation: £0
Attractions: £20
Food and amenities: £40
Practical Information About Warwick
Continent/Area: England, United Kingdom
National Languages: English
Currency: Sterling Pound
Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
Happy travelling!
One Comment
Kyra
I’ve spent plenty of time in England but have yet to make it to Warwick! Seems beautiful, I love some good Medieval architecture. Will have to add this to my list!