A historic market town in the heart of England, Warwick is best known for its castle, a hulking fortress on the River Avon. Founded by William the Conqueror, Warwick Castle today bears little likeness to its former wooden motte-and-bailey self, having been expanded into a medieval masterpiece with thick stone fortifications, gatehouses, and dungeons. Warwick town itself also has a lot going for it: A laid-back river location, buildings from nearly every era, and a half-timbered town center are among the things to do in Warwick.
Warwick has a moderate year-round climate—it’s rarely too hot, and rarely too cold, but it is often rainy. With warmer weather in summer, the months between May and Sep. are popular months to visit. Around this time, you’ll also find more events. Look out for the Warwick Folk Festival in July and summer live music events within the Warwick Castle walls.
London-based visitors can reach Warwick easily using direct trains from London Marylebone to Warwick Station (not the further away Warwick Parkway), and the journey takes a little more than an hour. Once there, the station is a 15-minute walk to either Warwick Castle or the town center. Inside the town, all the sights are walkable, although there are buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services readily available.
While Warwick Castle is the star attraction, Warwick has other unsung landmarks that deserve a visit. Don’t miss the crowd-free Collegiate Church of St. Mary, which is one of the UK’s biggest churches and a stellar example of gothic architecture. For lovers of the great outdoors, nearby Hatton Locks is a stretch of water with 21 locks on the Grand Union Canal. Popular with narrowboats and bikes, the area is lovely for taking walks and enjoying picnics, too.
