Carisbrooke Castle — Attraction in Newport

Carisbrooke Castle’s imposing tower entrance creates the first impression that this place is an interesting fortification full of history...and fun.

If you love wall walks, as we do, then Carisbrooke Castle should be on your bucket list. The stroll along the castle battlements extends around the castle’s entire perimeter and offers excellent views of the surrounding area as well as the castle’s inner bailey. The wall walk includes climbing some steep steps, passing by a few tree tops, and stopping by some of the entrances to the castle interiors. One part of the walk even stops by the café located at the far side, with some outdoor tables along the stone alley (in addition to inside tables). We also took a brief walk on the lawns around the outside of the castle walls.

Aside from walks, one could spend hours just taking in Carisbrooke Castle’s colourful history, such as the incarceration of Charles 1 during the civil war (e.g., his prison room and bowling green), and as a fortress against raids by Viking and later by French aggressors (e.g., famous keyhole where an archer killed a French commander). It was also the home of one of Queen Victoria’s daughters (e.g. Beatrice’s garden). Some of the castle is in ruins, but several intact rooms that we viewed at various places around the castle.

We visited during a busy school break, where we noticed kids enjoying medieval entertainers and watching the castle’s famous donkeys (we missed the daily demonstration where a donkey walks on a treadmill to raise water from the deep well).

Note: Visited in...

Carisbrooke Castle is a beautiful and impressive castle located on the Isle of Wight. It is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. The castle is well-preserved and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The castle was built in the 11th century and has been used as a royal residence, a prison, and a museum. It is now owned by the Crown Estate and is open to the public.

The castle is deceptive in appearance from the road. It appears to be a small, unassuming building. However, once you enter the grounds, you are transported to a different world. The castle is large and well-maintained, and there is plenty to see and do.

If you are looking for a beautiful and impressive castle to visit, Carisbrooke Castle is a great option. It is a place where you can learn about history, enjoy the outdoors, and relax and enjoy the views.

Here are some of the things you can do at Carisbrooke Castle:

Explore the castle grounds. The castle is set in a beautiful park with plenty of gardens and walking trails. Visit the museum. The museum has a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history of the castle and the Isle of Wight. Take a tour of the castle. The castle offers guided tours that will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the castle. Enjoy the views. The castle has stunning views of the surrounding countryside. *Watch the donkey...

A superb day at Carisbrooke. Enough going on to have lots to do but it doesn't feel overwhelming. Workers are clearly very enthusiastic and passionate about what they do, particularly those teaching the history segments of the day to do with their specific profession (glass-maker, blacksmith etc. and the tent all about traditional foods of the time period). Excellent jousting tournament too with a brilliantly funny (and equally impressive) mini jester/fire show to follow. A few different stalls in this area too serving hot drinks, crêpes and other treats and snacks. The castle itself is impressively well-preserved, allowing you to walk along most all of the different areas with an incredible view of the Isle of Wight when at the top (would have to be careful with very young kids on the top-most paths though as handrails are not especially protective). Even a beautiful small chapel you can go inside too. There is also a gift shop at the entrance/exit with lots on offer, ranging from fun children's gifts and toys (knights' hats, plastic swords etc.) to alcohols and other more sophisticated gifts/souvenirs for those older. Overall, a day very well spent and would recommend Carisbrooke Castle to anyone and everyone who is after a fun but seamlessly educational day out with lots to do, watch and explore. Learnt a lot but also had a...