You may think that Birmingham is a built up city filled with high rise buildings and offices but if you look a little closer there’s some gorgeous rural castles hidden amongst all the chaos. This guide will show you which castles you can visit that are near to Birmingham and can make for a fun packed day out. Whether it’s a stroll with your partner, a family outing, or a place to take your fury friend for a walk, these castles are the must visits near you.
Dudley Zoo And Castle
Maybe one of the most visited castles for us Brummies is Dudley Castle. This castle has been around for decades and has seen so many historic events from passing kings and queens, deaths, and marriages. The grounds have so many stories to tell and discover that you will be able to find out on your visit while you enjoy your stroll around.
Now for a little history lesson on this glorious castle. The castle was originally an old motte and baily but over the centuries has been extended and improved as the ownership changed to have stone surroundings so it could be long lasting. During the 1900’s the grounds opened up to become Dudley Zoological Society that homed exotic animals around the castle for all to see. There are so many tales to find out about the castle and during your trip you can get a true history lesson into the full past of this amazing structure.
As it stands the castle now is fully open to the public with regular events and tours. Just some of the activities you can expect are ghost walks, children’s events, and watching birds of prey swoop around the castle. It can make for a great family day out as lots of the activities they host are suitable for children even if they are not interested in the historical parts of it all.
And we can’t forget to mention the fantastic zoo that lies around the castle. Some of our favourite animals you can find at the zoo are meerkats, flamingos, and the peacock which roams free around the grounds so don’t forget to look out for it!
Castle Hill, Dudley DY1 4QF
Warwick Castle
Just a short drive out of city centre you will find one of the most medieval castles in the UK. Warwick Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068 it was originally an old motte and baily but was switched and rebuilt into stone in the 12th century. The castle is known for keeping hold of prisoners such as King Edward IV and others from the Battle of Poitiers.
Today the castle does not have quite the same dramatic events but does make for a fun day out with the whole family. The castle boasts about having the best historical experience all year round for anyone to enjoy, they hold lots of shows and experiences that can tell the tale of this magnificent castle.
Some of the attractions now at the castle include mazes, archery, and tours around the castle and Great Halls which are just spectacular.
Kenilworth Castle
Founded during the Norman Conquest, Kenilworth Castle has got a royal past just waiting for you to discover. Built in the 1120s this has been a royal castle for most of its time and has been expanded through the years to be royal worthy for forthcoming kings and queens. Even though the castle now stands in ruins you can still look at the medieval and Tudor past that the castle is known for.
As the ruins are no longer ruled by the royals us locals can roam round them and have our own fun. The castle hosts lots of events especially over the summer holidays such as knight’s tournaments, clash of romans, and a lesson on medieval life.
Castle Green, Kenilworth CV8 1NG
Tamworth Castle
Dating back to the Saxon times in 0401 all the way to the late Victorian times during the 1900’s, Tamworth Castle has got some real historic tales to tell from its thousands of years standing tall in the city of Tamworth. During your visit you will get to discover the rich history the castle holds and see how it has developed to what it is today. You will learn about key historic events such as who ruled the castle and what they got up to in the grounds during their stay.
Now the castle is perfect for a family day out with lots of fun activities to try out and see how life was in the medieval times. You can try out traditional chores, hold real swords, and try on some armour that was used in duals. There’s so much to get up to and see as you adventure though the castle it’s like being in an immersive yet fun history lesson.
Stafford Castle
Stafford Castle has stood tall for over 900 years, once filled with lords and ladies the castle is now open to the public for all to see and enjoy. The castle used to be an old motte and baily but like most other structures it has been converted into stone to withstand future historical events. Today the castle is considered one of the best surviving examples of Norman earthworks in the UK, meaning you don’t have to just read about its history but can see it.
The grounds cover over 26 acres of lands, so you will not get bored on this day out discovering every nook and cranny. If this was not already intriguing enough due to recent archaeological excavations more secrets about the castle have come to light and you can unearth them today by following the trails left behind.
The castle is not the only attraction you can look as Stafford also have experienced where you can get hands on with the armour and visit other exhibits such as their herb gardens.
