Christmas at the Castle
Visitors can glide across an open-air ice rink nestled beneath Guy's Tower and wander along an illuminated light trail spanning across the grounds and gardens. Families can enjoy festive storytelling sessions with Santa and Mrs. Claus or watch a live pantomime adventure in the Woodland Theatre. The East Front hosts a winter food and drink market featuring toasted marshmallows and mulled wine, alongside outdoor winter birds of prey demonstrations.
What to Expect
Skate beneath historic towers and explore half a million twinkling lights.
Event Details
Duration
The light trail experience is 45 minutes; ice skating is a 45-minute slot.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Merlin Entertainments
Food & Drink
The East Front food and drink village serves hot chocolate, mulled wine, toasted marshmallows and seasonal treats; Christmas afternoon tea with mulled wine, sandwiches and festive sweets is also available in the Conservatory Tea House.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Magical and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
££
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Build your festive package from £8 per person. Ice rink from £8; light trail from £17; Castle entry and Stories with Santa from £29; Castle entry plus skating from £18; Castle entry plus Light Trail from £27; Castle entry from £18. The page also gives a separate ice-skating option from £17 per person. – Get tickets
- Hours: Daytime castle access is between 10am and 4pm, with last entry at 3pm. The light trail is after dark.
- Parking: Car parks include Stratford Road, Field and Stables; the Stratford Road and Field car parks have an uphill walk to the entrance. Parking payment options vary by car park.
- Accessibility: Designated Blue Badge parking bays and an accessible drop-off area are located close to the castle entrance.
Tips & Advice
- Pre-book Castle entry and Stories with Santa online to guarantee entry.
- Gold and Platinum Merlin Annual Passholders should reserve their free entry before visiting.
- Allow 45 minutes for the ice-skating slot and another 45 minutes for the light trail experience.
- Wrap up warm for the outdoor light trail and Christmas market.
- If using the Stratford Road or Field car park, allow for the uphill walk to the entrance.
Special Events & Promotions
- Gold and Platinum Merlin Annual Passholders can book a free passholder reservation for entry.
- The light trail is an after-dark experience.
- The family pantomime is available on selected dates only.
- Santa Sleepovers are offered on weekend dates.
- Ice skating and the light trail can be booked separately from castle entry.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Christmas at the Castle suitable for?
The event is suitable for all the family.
Should I book ahead?
Pre-book online to guarantee entry for Castle entry and Stories with Santa. Gold and Platinum Merlin Annual Passholders should reserve a free passholder entry.
What festive activities are available?
Experiences include ice skating, Stories with Santa, a light trail, a Christmas market, a winter birds of prey display and a family pantomime on selected dates.
What food and drink can visitors find?
The Food and Drink Village offers festive treats such as toasted marshmallows, hot chocolate, mulled wine and seasonal food. Christmas afternoon tea is also available.
How long should I allow for the ice rink and light trail?
Ice skating is a 45-minute slot, and the light trail experience lasts 45 minutes.
More Christmas Events near Warwick
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.