Warwick Castle: War of the Roses Live – A Review

Warwick Castle offers a truly magical experience for the whole family, combining historical intrigue, action-packed live shows, and interactive experiences. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a fun family outing, Warwick Castle has something for everyone.

War of the Roses Live is a spectacular show that has been brought back to Warwick Castle by popular demand. It was a definite highlight of our recent trip, entertaining not only the adults but also captivating our children (of very different ages!). We were all so enthralled by the experience, that we ended up watching the show twice – once cheering for the white rose, before defecting to cheer for the red rose. 

While expecting a simple jousting show, we were pleasantly surprised by a full-fledged, action-packed reenactment (albeit abridged) of the Wars of the Roses, the historic conflict (1455-1487) that gripped England for control of the throne. Even as someone with no prior knowledge of this period, the performance was incredibly engaging. It sparked discussions between myself and Brett about the historical accuracy (turns out, it was quite faithful!), making it both entertaining and educational.

The show is perfect for older children who might be interested in learning more about the two houses (the House of York and the House of Lancaster), ultimately leading to the rise of the Tudor dynasty. At three years old, the focus was definitely on the action for Bertie, with swashbuckling sword fighting, incredible jousting, and even some (staged) dramatic deaths keeping him on the edge of his seat. Our younger one, Barnaby, seemed to enjoy the sensory overload of the vibrant costumes, booming sounds, and swift movements.

While I won’t spoil the surprises, let’s just say the trick-riding finale was a huge hit, especially with Bertie! Despite the epic jousts, daring sword fights, and dramatic deaths, this ending, featuring incredible feats of horsemanship and spectacular stunts, has become his favorite part of the entire trip, something he constantly talks about. His Nana even fueled his enthusiasm by buying him a horse on a belt (affectionately named “Cuddly”) that he uses to pretend to be a daring trick rider while charging around the house.

Don’t rush out after the show! The talented performers not only put on a fantastic show but are also wonderful with children, sticking around to chat and pose for photos. This goes for everyone we met at Warwick Castle – the whole staff team enjoys their work and takes pride in providing a memorable experience for visitors. Bertie had a great time chatting with the performers, confidently declaring his future career as a trick rider at the castle (which might require me to conquer my fear of horses!).

In conclusion, if you have limited time at Warwick Castle, make “War of the Roses LIVE” a top priority. It’s a captivating show that will keep you glued to your seat, offering a unique blend of entertainment, history, and thrills! You won’t want to look away for a second!

Beyond the Jousting

Warwick Castle offers a wealth of other experiences and immersive shows to explore, including:

• The Great Hall: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this historic space and imagine medieval feasts.
• Kingmaker Exhibition: Learn about the pivotal role of Richard Neville, the 16th Earl of Warwick, during the Wars of the Roses.
• State Rooms: Explore the lavish apartments adorned with treasures, providing a glimpse into aristocratic life.
• Castle Dungeons: Uncover the darker side of the castle’s history with a spooky (yet family-friendly) experience.
• The Legend of the Trebuchet: Witness the power of this medieval siege weapon and learn about its role in warfare.
• The Falconer’s Quest: Witness a captivating display of falconry and the fascinating skills of these birds of prey.
• Knight’s Village: Step back in time and experience overnight stays in a medieval encampment complete with demonstrations and epic storytelling.
• Horrible Histories Maze: A fun and educational maze themed around this popular children’s brand focusing on British history. 
• Zog Live Show: Follow in the footprints of Julia Donaldson’s beloved dragon to find a golden star.
• Family Activities: The castle offers a variety of activities specifically designed to engage younger visitors.