Trifter

THE name of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, Warwick the Kingmaker resounded across the Late Middle Ages.  He was the richest man in England and his financial support was vital for any claimant to the throne during the Wars of the Roses.  His story is told in Warwick Castle in Warwickshire.

Visitors can join him as he prepares his retainers for his final battle at Barnet in 1471.  They are able to listen to him rallying his troops and are able to decide wherever to ride with their lord or flee into the night.

Later they can experience the dreams of William, his 12 year old page on the eve of battle.  This helps visitors to understand the noise, drama the adrenaline-charged sheer terror and horror of medieval warfare.

Special events include Siege, with authentic siege weapons, including the awesome trebuchet and archers.  There is the Knight School where tourist can learn the skills of medieval combat.  This is followed by a full-scale recreation.

Bloody Battles and Woeful Wars allow spectators to relive those days with their powerful weapons and terrible medical treatments.

The Jousting and Jester Academy presents a lighter note and budding Cadfael’s can take part in the Medieval Crime Scene Investigation.

Warwick Castle’s Great Hall, staterooms and dungeons are open as is the mill and engine house.  Visitors are able to enjoy stunning views from the towers and ramparts.  There are also 60 acres of grounds and gardens that are open to the public.

The royal weekend party lets people listen to the intrigue, gossip and scandal of some of the most respected figures of Victorian society.

Falconry take place throughout most of the year and Warwick Castle stages a summer concert with a firework display.  October has Horrible Halloween in the haunted towers, turrets and ramparts when the story of Sir Fulke Greville’s grisly murder is acted out.  There is ice skating at the castle during October.

A wide range of corporate entertainment facilities from banquets to team building exercises are available at Warwick Castle.

There is limited disabled access to Warwick Castle due to its antiquity with the many steps and narrow doorways.

It has special resource packs with educational tours and talks being available to schools on request.

Warwick Castle is open daily from 10am to 6pm between April and September and 10am to 5pm from October to March with the exception of Christmas Day.

More recent information on Britain’s Greatest Medieval Experience can be obtained from 08704 422 000.