A Visit to Carisbrooke Castle
Carisbrooke Castle Opening Times
Carisbrooke Castle is one of the top Isle of Wight attractions welcoming 1000’s of visitors each year. Carisbrooke Castle opening times do vary depending on the time of year. The winter months the castle is generally open between 10am and 4pm at weekends only. During the summer months you will be able to access the castle most days from 10am to 6pm. Carisbrooke Castle opening times during the remaining part of the year is from 10am to 5pm. I have included a link at the end of the post so you check the times for date of visit.
A Visit to Carisbrooke Castle: A Fun and Informative Day Out thanks to English Heritage Isle of Wight.
Are you looking for a fun and informative day out on the Isle of Wight? Do you want to explore a historic castle, enjoy stunning views and meet some friendly donkeys? If so, you should visit Carisbrooke Castle, one of the Isle of Wight’s most popular attractions.
A Great Place To Visit
You can learn about the history and culture of the island, admire the architecture and scenery of the castle, and have fun with the activities and animals.
You can also support the conservation and preservation work of the English Heritage Isle of Wight and all that the charity does to make historic sights available to the public.
What is Carisbrooke Castle?
Carisbrooke Castle is a medieval castle that sits high and proud at the heart of the Isle of Wight near Newport.
The castle is maintained by the English Heritage Isle of Wight and provides an insight into the island’s history.
As you enter its majestic gates you will be transported back in time. The castle’s history dates back to the 11th century. Learn about its famous history as a royal residence, a king’s prison and a fortress for the island.
The castles wall have also witnessed a Civil War, a French Siege and the Spanish Armarda. The castle was turned into an artillery fort to counter Spanish threats.
English Heritage Isle of Wight
The English Heritage is a charity that takes care of over 400 historic builds and monuments. English Heritage Isle of Wight looks after several sights that are worth visiting whilst on the Island.
- Osborne House the former home of Queen Victoria.
- Yarmouth Castle.
- Appuldercombe House once the grandest house on the island.
- St.catherines Oratory – a lovely walk on the downs with spectacular views.
What can I do as Carisbrooke Castle
There is lots to see and do at Carisbrooke Caste making it a great family day out.
Outside the walls
The castle location offers spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. The walk around the outside the castle walls is free and makes a lovely walk if you have a dog.
Inside the castle
Walk around the battlements
The old castle walls are great for exploring, climbing up the stone spiral staircase to stunning views over the courtyard of the castle. You can walk right around the battlements and imagine what it must have like for soldiers that once stood there.
Climb the Norman Keep
The Norman keep is the highest point, where you can look down on the bowling green where King Charles I played before being imprisoned.
Meet the Carisbrooke Donkeys
Meet the famous Carisbrooke donkeys, and watch their daily demonstrations working the 16th-century tread wheel to raise the water 49 metres from the bottom of the castle well. Hold onto your phone as you take a look down, several have been lost down the well in the past.
Learn about the Castles History
Learn about the history of the castle and its inhabitants at the museum, which displays artefacts, paintings and costumes. Try on authentic chain mail and helmets. More history is available at the English Heritage Isle of Wight website.
The Chapel
Experience the beauty and tranquillity of St Nicholas’ chapel.
The current chapel was built in 1904 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Charles I’s execution, though there had been a chapel at the castle since medieval times.
Castle Museum
The castle’s Great Hall and St. Peters Chapel showcase the museum, with Charles I memorabilia and regularly changing exhibitions.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets can be booked online in advance (save at least 10%) or at the castle on arrival. If you are an English Heritage Isle of Wight member entry is free.
Carisbrooke Castle Opening times and prices can vary throughout the year and checking the castle website before travel is advised. Generally in peak seasons, the castle will be open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Adult £11.30
- Child £7.50
- Family £32.50
How to find Carisbrooke Castle
The Castle is located in the centre of the island in Carisbrooke, just to the west of Newport. The address of the castle is Newport, Isle of Wight, Hants PO30 1XY, if you are using SATNAV.
How long does it take to visit Carisbrooke Castle?
There is lots to do and see at the castle. But generally allow half a day to visit all the attractions and walk around the battlements.
Can dogs go to Carisbrooke Castle?
Feel free to walk your dog on a lead around the castle, but please don’t go inside the museum together (with the exception of assistance dogs).
Is there parking at Carisbrooke Castle?
Parking is provided for about 100 cars, located approximately 50 metres from site.
Why Is Carisbrooke Castle famous?
Carisbrooke Castle is one of the Isle of Wight attractions and has remained a symbolic centre for the island. Charles I was held prisoner here during the Civil War, shortly before his execution.
Carisbrooke Castle Opening Times
The castle opening times vary through out the year. It is best to check here before commencing your journey to ensure the Castle is open.
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