Medieval streets lined with Tudor houses lead to one of England's best-preserved castles. The 15th-century guildhall and River Avon walks add to this historic market town's appeal.
Warwick sits on the River Avon, with its medieval castle towering above the town since the 10th century. You can walk through streets where Tudor merchants once lived, step into the medieval Lord Leycester Hospital, or watch falcons soar above castle walls. Take a boat on the river, climb 500 steps up Clarence Tower for county-wide views, or explore St Mary's Church with its ancient crypt and tower.
Visiting Warwick Castle
You'll need 3-4 hours to explore this 14th-century castle, open daily 10AM-5PM in winter and until 6PM in summer. Online tickets start at £24. Walk through the Great Hall to see medieval weapons and a massive 500-liter copper porridge pot. Watch birds of prey circle overhead during the Falconers Quest show, or brave the Castle Dungeon where actors bring medieval prison stories to life. Walk through the 64-acre grounds, designed by Capability Brown in the 18th century, with views across the River Avon.
Medieval Buildings in Town Center
At the Lord Leycester Hospital, you'll walk through 14th-century timber-framed buildings and a Norman-era gateway. Today, the building serves as a retirement home for ex-servicemen while welcoming visitors to its historic Guildhall, Brethrens' Kitchen, and Knot Garden. Visit Tuesday through Sunday, 10AM-5PM in summer and until 4PM in winter. Adult entry: £8.50.
Parks and River Activities
St Nicholas Park stretches along the River Avon with open spaces for picnics. Rent a rowing boat or motorboat from the boathouse to see Warwick Castle from the water. The park has play areas for children and maintained gardens with seasonal flowers. Above Warwick Racecourse, Hill Close Gardens preserves 16 restored Victorian gardens, originally created by townhouse owners who wanted their own growing space.
Markets and Museums
Step into the 17th-century Market Hall to visit the Warwickshire Museum. You'll find local archaeological discoveries, dinosaur fossils, and the detailed Sheldon Tapestry map. Every Saturday, local vendors sell fresh produce, crafts, and hot food in the market square. Visit the Market Hall Museum Tuesday through Saturday, 10AM-5PM, with free entry.
Getting Around
Trains run from Warwick to London Marylebone (90 minutes), Birmingham (30 minutes), and Stratford-upon-Avon (30 minutes). By car, take the M40 motorway to Junction 13 and follow signs to the town center. Buses connect to Birmingham Airport, 20 miles away. Local taxis operate throughout the town 24/7.
