Visiting a historic castle can be a fun, exciting activity for both children and adults. It might make a good outing for those half-term days to keep the kids occupied, or even a romantic outing for you and your special someone. Here are some tips to help you get the most of your visit to a historic castle.
1. Do a lot of research first.
Chances are you will enjoy the experience more if you learn something about where you are going first. When was the castle built, and why? Who lived there? Were there any battles fought at this castle?
You should also try to find out when the property opens and closes, if you can take a picnic lunch, if you are allowed to go inside the castle (sadly some you cannot enter), if there is a gift shop and café, and if there are public restrooms.
2. Bring a camera and a pair of binoculars.
Never will you regret not bringing a camera more than if you don’t take one when visiting a historic castle. Castles are one of the most beautiful things to photograph, and even make wonderful backdrops for family and wedding photos. Binoculars can be especially helpful too if it’s a large castle with high towers. Just take a regular pair of bird watching binoculars and enjoy the view from all angles.
3. Ask questions.
Whether you get a guided tour or not, there will usually be some staff around the castle grounds that you can talk to. If there wasn’t much history available on the Web site or you simply have unanswered questions, chances are members of staff know more about the castle than most anyone else. They are also usually very happy to share what they know.
4. Prepare for bad weather.
It’s always a good idea to bring umbrellas and rain jackets just in case.