Bodiam Castle — Attraction in Rother

A tranquil, nostalgic day out. Driving through the ancient woodland, being stopped by a steam strain crossing the road which revealed the castle poking its battlements out of the tree tops really set the scene. We felt the peaceful setting as soon as we pulled into the car park, it was a weekday so we weren't caught up in the crowds and it gave us lots of space to explore and talk whilst still feeling like a private experience. There are information boards and a short video explaining what the castle's purpose was and the kind of people that lived and worked there. The guides are really just fantastic people who are so welcoming, knowledgeable and kind. Both Tom and Max were so helpful in giving us much more detailed information about the castle and the period in which it was active, the architecture and the general history surrounding it. The moat is quite impressive with its giant carp schools and lillypads lending itself perfectly for that romantic medieval setting. Picnic spots are not in short supply here with plenty of benches and tables set in shaded areas and grass you can set a blanket on. The grounds are kept very nicely and the whole scenery is impressive to be in the presence of. It was a really relaxing day out, stress free and a little inspiring to dip back into some more history content. There's a cafe and a gift shop with some pretty good books for all ages. With Bodiam Castle being just an hour and fifteen minutes from Gatwick Airport it actually makes it quite possible to visit on a day trip or short visit from anywhere in Europe or if you're passing through from...

I would recommend coming here to visit if you enjoy history or even if you want to do something different over the weekend.

It's a very interesting castle, with a lot of history and in fact very good condition considering it's age. It's also in a great location (well, if you can excuse the conditions of the roads, driving to visit this location).

It does appear to be a very popular place, as it was very busy when I went over those weekends gone.

You can also get some great photos from ground level of the castle (and the moat surrounding it), or if decide to climb up some of the towers to get some great views over the castle and the surrounding area.

Now the reason for 4 stars.

Firstly, parking, I would say, if visiting over the weekend and not the week. It becomes very busy, and you'll more than likely have to wait for a spot.

If you're a non-member like myself, you also have to pay for parking (which again adding your tickets to enter the castle), the bill can add up.

Secondly, if you want to take time to stroll round and enjoy the castle, don't come on the weekend, as it was so busy, I felt rushed around and didn't really get time to look at the castle in detail and enjoy it.

Thirdly and finally, I wouldn't suggest purchasing any food from the cafes. The staff are friendly, but as usual with NT locations, the prices are overinflated. Bring a pack lunch.

That's said, I do think visiting the castle and bringing a picnic on a sunny day would be an absolutely...

A very picturesque castle ruin. Run but national trust easy parking and lots to do on days with events check the NT website for itinerary. If you are thinking about going in the cafe there STOP. This place will part you from your money very quickly, your better off going to the pub The Castle Inn after your walk around the castle. At least that way you get proper drink and a meal . A piece of cake at the castle is £4 and a coffee £3.10 yep they certainly see to coming. Take a picnic if you want to eat in the grounds. The castle itself is as said a ruin so sturdy shoes climb the stairs to the top for a great view. If your a member of NT dont forget you park for free just enter your member number or scan your card. Normal adult entry is £11 a bit steep I thought. You will enjoy it there I'm sure I've been twice try and go when the kids are back at school it's much more peaceful. Unfortunately while I was there I never noticed any transport to assist people with difficulty walking to reach the castle. I do think that you could take an electric buggy of your own to get you from the carpark to to the castle and around the pathway around the castle. It's the nature of historic buildings that access is sometimes very limited for less mobile people, even I find some some stairs a challenge as I'm 6ft 1in and 17stone and people were generally much smaller back in the day. Try calling the site ahead of your visit I'm sure they...