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Christmas at the Castle
Warwick, Warwickshire
Enchanting medieval castle transformed into a winter wonderland.
About
Step into a magical winter wonderland at Warwick Castle this holiday season! Experience the enchantment of 'Christmas at the Castle,' featuring a dazzling new light trail illuminating 64 acres with over half a million twinkling lights. Glide into festive fun on the brand-new ice rink, enjoy a heartwarming 'Stories with Santa' experience, and savor delicious treats at the Food & Drink Village. A traditional pantomime and festive carols add to the yuletide cheer.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and anyone seeking a magical holiday experience.
Vibe
Festive, enchanting, historic, magical
Energy Level
Moderate (walking required, optional ice skating)
Budget
Mid-Range (Various Ticket Options Available)
Photo Friendly
High (stunning castle backdrop and festive decorations)
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (outdoor activities are weather-dependent, but indoor options are available)
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Day Tickets from £26, Annual Passes from £49, Short Breaks from £40pp. Light Trail from £17pp. Ice Skating from £8pp. Stories with Santa from £29pp.
Duration
Varies by activity (e.g., 45-minute skate sessions, 30-minute Santa experience)
Ages
Suitable for all the family; ice skating requires participants to be at least 3 years old.
Schedule
The event runs from November 22nd, 2025, to January 4th, 2026. Ice skating sessions last for 45 minutes, with arrival 20 minutes prior. Light Trail timeslots start from 4:30 PM. Stories with Santa is a 30-minute experience, with recommended arrival 30 minutes prior.
Organizer
Warwick Castle
Practical Information
Parking
Stratford Road Car Park: £7.00. Stables Car Park: £10.00 (covers until 5pm, additional charges apply for parking post 5pm). Over 12 seater minibuses, motorhomes, and coaches should be parked in the Stratford Road Car Park only. Selected Annual Passes come with free parking (in the Stratford Road or Field Car Park) and are subject to availability. EV Charging is exclusively for hotel guests and costs £3 for 24 hours.
Accessibility
The spectator viewing area and the ice rink are fully accessible for wheelchair users. The Light Trail is accessible, though some areas have steep slopes, grassy areas, tight corners, and dark sections. Designated bays for Blue Badge holders are available in the Stables and Stratford Road Car Parks.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed, except for assistance dogs.
Food & Drink
Festive treats, including marshmallows, mulled wine, hot chocolates, and afternoon tea are available at the Food & Drink Village and adjacent stalls.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your 'Stories with Santa' slot to ensure a relaxed experience and avoid missing any part of the magic.
- Book your tickets, especially for the Light Trail and 'Stories with Santa,' well in advance, as popular time slots tend to sell out quickly.
- Dress in warm, layered outdoor clothing and wear comfortable, practical shoes, as you'll be exploring a large outdoor area with potential for uneven terrain.
- Consider purchasing evening parking tickets via the app beforehand for convenience, especially if attending evening events like the Light Trail.
- Utilize the cloakroom at the ice rink for a small fee to store belongings, but avoid bringing large bags or valuables as storage is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a castle entrance ticket to go ice skating?
If you want to ice-skate without accessing the castle, you can buy a skate-only ticket online. This ticket includes access to the ice rink and food stalls. A combined daytime castle & skate ticket is also available.
How long is the session on the ice for?
Sessions last for 45 minutes on the ice, but you will need to arrive 20 minutes before your booked slot to collect your skates.
Is the Light Trail wheelchair accessible?
The Light Trail is fully accessible, however, some areas have steep slopes, grassy areas, tight corners, and dark areas. Assistance is available from staff members.
Can I bring my dog?
With the exception of assistance dogs, no pets are allowed on-site.
What does the Castle & Santa ticket include?
The Castle & Santa ticket includes daytime access to the castle and grounds (10 AM - 4 PM) and the 'Stories with Santa' experience, where children receive a small gift and adults a complimentary mince pie.