Warwick Castle isn't your typical stuffy museum. Sure, it boasts over 1,100 years of history, but this place is more like a time machine with a serious case of the zoomies. Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror (history buff? You probably know this guy!), Warwick Castle started out as a bit of a snoozefest – a simple wooden fort. But hey, gotta start somewhere, right?

Luckily, the castle quickly graduated from splintery starter shack to impressive stone fortress. By the 12th century, it was all grown up and glamorous, and during the Hundred Years' War, it got a major makeover. This included a brand new facade that's still one of the coolest examples of 14th-century military architecture around.

For centuries, Warwick Castle was a powerful stronghold, but eventually, things calmed down a bit. In the early 1600s, King James I was like, "you know what this castle needs? A makeover… but the fun kind!" He gave the castle to Sir Fulke Greville who transformed it into a fancy mansion.

Today, Warwick Castle is Britain's ultimate historical experience (emphasis on the experience). Want to see jousting tournaments where knights battle it out like it's medieval Monday? Check. Craving a front-row seat to the UK's largest birds of prey show? They've got you covered. Feeling brave? The Castle Dungeon promises chills and thrills (though maybe not for the faint of heart!).

But Warwick Castle isn't all about screams and sword fights. You can also explore beautifully furnished rooms that take you back in time, wander through stunning gardens, or even spend the night in their brand new, medieval-themed hotel (because who wouldn't want to sleep in a room fit for a king… or queen… or maybe a time-traveling drone pilot?).

So, whether you're a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or just looking for a fun family day out, Warwick Castle has something for everyone. Just be prepared for a place where history isn't behind glass – it's in your face, on your arm (hopefully not in the form of a jousting lance!), and ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure.

Map of Warwick Castle

Here is a Google map which allows you to zoom in etc. I took off from a boat but there looks to be a few places around to take and land.