Quaint houses, thatched roofs, and an 800-year-old castle, that is what awaits you upon your visit to the beautiful and historical town of Warwick. If you like delicious food, quaint town décor, fascinating history, and beautiful, tranquil views, this town is perfect for you.
With its iconic central fortification dating back to the 11th century, the town of Warwick is awash with beautiful buildings, dating back hundreds of years, that makes the perfect romantic escape to the English countryside from the nearby city of Birmingham.
The small town of Warwick has a surprising variety and depth of activities, sights, and quirky charms for such a quiet and tiny place. No matter what your taste in adventure might be, whether you are a history buff or fancy a relaxing weekend break, Warwick is sure to have the perfect place for you.
Here, are few things that you can do in this beautiful city.
1. Cruise the River by Row Boat
What better way to start off any day out in Warwick is there than a relaxing cruise along the River Avon in a private row boat? Talk about romantic!
If row boats aren't your scene, then why not try a kayak, pedal, or perhaps a giant pink swan?! There are loads of options available when it comes to crusing the river beneath the splendour of Warwick Castle.
You can also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding by either renting one from the local boat hire or even bring your own.
2. Wander Through St Nicholas Park
Once you are done enjoying the peace and tranquility of the River Avon, why not take a stroll through the adjacent St Nicholas' park. Stretching along the northern side of the river, St Nicholas' Park is a hugely popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering views relaxing over the water and a huge playpark for kids to enjoy in the sunshine.
Stop off at the park and grab an ice cream from the local shop before you head into the town centre of Warwick to explore the historical sights.
3. Explore Warwick Castle
The most popular tourist attraction in Warwick is of course the unmissable outline of the ancient Warwick Castle. Dating back over 800 years, this castle was one of the foundations of the area of Warwickshire, creating the surrounding area from the protection of the fortress.
The castle was used as a fortress until the 17th century, when it was granted to a local statesman who converted it into a country house. This remained as its main use until the mid-20th century when it was bought by the Tussauds Group and transformed into an entertainment and education centre.
The popularity of Warwick Castle is getting dressed up in 2001, when entered on the list of Top 10 historic houses and monuments by the British Tourist Authority. You already toured Warwick Castle will be taken on a fairy tale for various hallways, rooms, and part of the palace is similar to the Princess Cinderella fairy tale.
After changing ownership, in the 17th century Warwick Castle officially purchased by the Tussauds Group in 1978. The Tussauds Group opened this magnificent castle as a tourist destination. And now, this luxurious palace is protected the British government by making it as Ancient Monuments.
The first room you can tour is the Great Hall, the largest room with an effective first impression. The Great Hall dates back to the 13th century and was used for holding grand banquets.
The Castle Dungeon
For those who love a good scare, the Castle Dungeon offers an interactive experience filled with eerie tales, special effects, and costumed actors bringing history's darker side to life. Be prepared for some spine-tingling moments!
Towers and Ramparts
Climb the castle's imposing towers and ramparts for panoramic views of Warwickshire's stunning countryside. The climb may be steep, but the breathtaking scenery makes it well worth the effort.
The Trebuchet Show
Experience medieval warfare firsthand with a live demonstration of Warwick Castle's giant trebuchet. This catapult was once a formidable siege weapon, and today, visitors can watch as it is fired, showcasing the engineering marvels of the past.
The Birds of Prey Show
Marvel at the skill and agility of majestic eagles, hawks, and owls during the daily Birds of Prey Show. This spectacular display highlights the importance of these birds in medieval hunting traditions and warfare.
The Knight's Village
For visitors wanting an immersive overnight stay, the Knight's Village offers medieval-style lodges and glamping tents, providing an unforgettable experience of castle life with modern amenities.
Visit the ancient castle for yourself and tour the grounds, learn about Warwick's fascinating, and even try your nerve with a darker side to the local area in the Castle Dungeon tour.
Make sure you book in advance if you are wanting to visit the castle, as it tends to book out well in advance due to the huge popularity of the attraction.
4. Discover Kenilworth Castle
On the outskirts of the town centre of Warwick, just a short 15-minute drive from Warwick Castle, lies the ancient ruin of Kenilworth Castle. This is also the perfect stop for any history lovers, or families looking to be entertained and explore the local area.
Offering guided tours and immersive storytelling experiences, Kenilworth Castle is a fantastic place to learn all about the history of the surrounding area. The entire castle takes around an hour to walk around, with towering stone walls and a stunning flower garden around the back of the grounds.
Relax on the grassy hill and soak up the atmosphere of this English Heritage site and make the most of your time in Warwick.
5. Have a Drink in Warwick's Oldest Pub
Dating back to the beginning of the 15th-century, the Roebuck Inn is the oldest public house in Warwick and is a must-visit pub during your trip to Warwick.
Located right on the cobbled town centre of Warwick, this pub offers delicious pub meals, cold and refreshing drinks, and invigorating teas and coffees to energise you for a day of exploring Warwick.
6. Have a Day at the Races
Just outside the town centre of Warwick you will find the grassy expanse of the Warwick Racing Club. Originally built in 1808, this racing club features 25 racing meets throughout the year that are sure to add a unique twist to your time in the sleepy town of Warwick.
7. Enjoy a Traditional Cream Tea
If you are wanting to enjoy the true Warwick experience, then one thing you cannot miss out on is a Traditional Cream Tea in the 500-year-old cottage, Thomas Oken. There is nothing more traditionally English than sitting beneath the old wooden beams of this beautiful café with a cup of tea and a scone with cream and jam.
8. Visit the Famous Lord Leycester Hospital
The thatched roof and visible wooden beams of this 700-year-old cottage showcase the classic architecture of medieval times in England. Named after the typical Elizabethan word "hospital", the Lord Leycester Hospital doesn't reflect the modern-day medical centre, instead, it was traditionally being used as a place for hospitality and shelter.
9. Stroll Along the Cobbled Street of Old Town
Thatched roofs, cobbled lanes, and winding vines coating the surrounding walls are what awaits you in Old Town of Warwick. Take a stroll down this lane and immerse yourself in the beauty of this quaint part of town.
10. Visit Leamington Spa for a Shopping Trip
Once you have finished turning the town of Warwick inside out and you are looking for a change of scenery, the slightly larger town of Leamington Spa sits just a brief walk away. Named after the town's nearby river that was once thought to exhibit healing properties, Leamington Spa is another example of the olden English architecture and culture of the region.
Not far from the River Avon sits the high street of Leamington Spa which is bustling with retail shops, fancy restaurants, and quirky cafes. When you are here, I highly recommend trying the cold milkshake in Cenu Cacao and the vegan pizzas on offer in Basement Browns.
11. The Mill Garden
One of the best things to do in Warwick, Warwickshire, is to explore the Mill Garden.
This gorgeous Garden is located on the banks of River Avon. It is a must-see attraction in the town for anyone who enjoys an excellent view.
The Mill Garden has a stunning setting and offers a striking view of the River Avon and the castle.
You can also view the ruins of the old bridge and the numerous swans nestling nearby.
This Garden, with several plants and many benches, is privately owned, so you might have to pay a small admission charge to see it, but it is worth it.
12. The Market Hall Museum
Among the top things to do in Warwick, Warwickshire, is to explore the Market Hall Museum if you like history. The Market Hall is a segment of the Warwickshire Museum. Heritage and Culture Warwickshire run the Warwickshire Museum. The Warwick Museum was initially built as a shelter for merchants doing business in the once-successful market.
However, it now houses an enormous early history exhibition covering social history, geology, natural history, and archaeology. Aside from the building, the other highlights include the 16th-century Sheldon Tapestry and its popular Irish Deer skeleton, plus a big stuffed beer.
13. Warwick Antiques Centre
Warwick Antique Center is located in the center of the historic Warwick, just five minutes from the magnificent Warwick Castle.
Warwick Antique Center was established in 1972 and has nearly 30 individual sellers.
The antique center has a permanently changing stock ranging from vintage antiques, ceramics, old and new jewelry, furnishings, local hand-made crafts, teddy bears, gifts, silver, coins, pictures, and toys.
Warwick Antique Center has a wide variety of stock with prices suitable for all sizes of pockets.
In addition to being a pleasant ample space with airy and vast aisles, people on wheelchairs can access the store. Among what to do in Warwick, Warwickshire, especially as visitors, is to go antique shopping.
14. St. John's House
St John House is a notable house located in Warwick, east of the town center of Warwickshire. St. John's House has a history of almost 900 years.
The building is currently an Education, Event, and Wedding Venue run by the Heritage and Culture Warwickshire.
The side of the house has a small garden that belongs to St John, while the rear is the expansive St. Nicholas's Park. St John's House is a grade I Listed building from the 1660s. The land on which the house was built initially served as a hospital in the 12th century.
The building was purchased by the Warwickshire County Council and made into a museum that opened in 1960 to the public. The building cannot be accessed by the general public but is utilized exclusively by local schoolchildren for learning sessions.
15. The Collegiate Church of St. Mary
The Collegiate Church of St. Mary, constructed in 1443, was renovated after a 1694 fire with the assistance of Christopher Wren.
The most fantastic feature of this must-visit tourist attraction is the Beauchamp Tower which can be climbed. Although admission to the church is free, you will have to pay a small fee to climb the tower.
The tomb of the founder of the church, Richard de Beauchamp, Earl of Warwick, is situated in the middle of the chapel.
Informative tour guides are around for people who are interested in exploring the church.
The church also has a small shop on-site, and if you pay a small fee, you can make and take home your own brass rubbing. You can enjoy concerts and organ recitals often held here at this church.
16. The Randolph Turpin Statue
This is a statue to honour Randolph Adolphus Turpin, a local sporting great. He was the Middleweight Boxing Champion of the World 1951.
Turpin is one of Leamington's more famous sporting sons, famous for his sensational triumph over the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson in 1951. This saw him become World Middleweight Champion although his reign was brief, being defeated in the rematch 64 days later. Turpin never reached those heights again although he came close, losing to Bobo Olson in a contest for the now vacant Middleweight title.
Weighed down by money troubles after retiring, Turpin took his own life in 1966. A statue of him can be seen in Market Square, Warwick.
17. The Castle Inn
A friendly pub near to the castle is the aptly named Castle Inn. This is a traditional British pub housed in a Tudor building with many original features. This includes Tudor beams and internal stained glass windows. As well as the historic inside, they also have a pleasant beer garden. The Castle Inn serve food and real ales on their menu.
How Do I Get to Warwick?
Warwick is a small town that lies just to the southeast of Birmingham, about 30kms from the city centre. It is easily reachable by public transport, including train and bus, with routes that take you from Birmingham directly to the centre of Warwick.
If you are flying into the country, the closest airport will be Birmingham airport, however, you can still easily reach Warwick by bus and train from any other major airport in the country.
Is Warwick Worth Visiting
Yes, Warwick is definitely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy history, medieval architecture, and charming English towns.
Here’s why:
Warwick is a pretty and intriguing town, steeped in history and heritage with many wonderful things to see and do. Whether visiting the magnificent Warwick Castle or gazing at the ancient artefacts in St Mary's Church, there is something for everyone here in Warwick.
Lovely gardens and riverside walks, especially along the River Avon.
Close to Jephson Gardens in neighboring Leamington Spa (just a short bus or taxi ride away). It's also close to other attractions like Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare's birthplace) and The Cotswolds.
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