Bodiam Castle

Set in a wealth of historic landscaping, Bodiam Castle is one of Britain's most picturesque ancient monuments. Enjoy a glimpse of medieval splendour at this 14th century luxury fortress with spiral staircases, battlements and the castle's original wooden portcullis: everything a castle is meant to be! 

The impressive and handsome symmetry of Bodiam Castle, with its massive towers and broad moat (with fish!) is a perfect example of a medieval castle circa and a great place to explore with imaginative kids.

There are colourful characters from the past wandering around in costume whom you can chat with, including the miller's wife and the forester. Between them and the enduring quality of the ruins themselves, there's a pleasing historical atmosphere and families of all ages will enjoy exploring.

You can do this in several ways, starting with the brilliant Knight's Peril Interactive Audio Adventure! It's free, but with a deposit required because you get a super cool Echo Horn to help you as you go round! Well worth doing! You can also download an adventure map to follow too, which will take you around all the castle's best kept secrets.

Inside the castle, the more bloodthirsty kids can seek out the murder holes in the roof of the main gatehouse and on the Postern Tower. Out of necessity, soldiers dropped all kinds of terrible things down those holes onto their attackers to try and get rid of them.

The grounds surrounding the castle are a great place to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Pack up a picnic and bring a rug to sit on and enjoy the view.

Pets allowed

Dogs are welcome on the grounds. Assistance/Guide Dogs are welcome in all areas. 

Guest suitability

Gravel paths throughout the site with some slopes and undulating terrain. Paths can be muddy in wet weather. Steps into some rooms in the castle. Steep spiral staircases up to the towers and ramparts.

Parking facilities

All Day: £3.00