Begin your visit to Tamworth Castle, a historical gem in the heart of England, with Avanti West Coast. Travelling with Avanti West Coast offers a convenient and enjoyable journey to this ancient site.
How to get to Tamworth Castle
Navigating to Tamworth Castle is straightforward and enjoyable, especially by train. There are many major cities, including London and Birmingham, which enjoy direct rail connections to Tamworth.
After arriving at Tamworth Station, a pleasant 13 to 15-minute walk will lead you to the castle. This walk provides a good opportunity to see the town and its surroundings as you head to the castle.
For those who prefer to drive, the journey is equally simple. Well-signposted routes guide you to Tamworth Castle. Park at the Jolly Sailor car park for a brief five to seven-minute walk through the castle grounds, or use the closer Holloway car park on Silver Street.
Whether travelling by train or car, your journey to Tamworth Castle will be straightforward.
What to do at Tamworth Castle
Within its walls, 15 interactive rooms reveal the castle's diverse history. You'll discover everything from medieval life to Victorian times. Each room is uniquely themed, offering hands-on experiences that bring history to life.
The castle grounds are equally inviting. They host a variety of events throughout the year, such as the festive Tamworth Christmas Lights Switch On. During winter, the castle transforms into an ice rink, perfect for family fun. The Cathedral to Castle run in April attracts athletes and spectators alike.
Regular events highlight Tamworth's cultural heritage, with seasonal festivities and historical reenactments. Alongside these events, the castle grounds offer areas perfect for relaxation and exploration. You could enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside or picnic in the lush green spaces.
You’ll also want to pack your camera. The castle features an elevated position, the castle's elevated position provides panoramic views of the area, appealing to photography enthusiasts.
Inside, the Tamworth Castle’s museum offers a treasure trove of artefacts. Each exhibit tells a story, from the ancient Mercian kings to the Civil War.
Interactive displays engage children, and adults can delve into detailed historical stories. The castle also has educational workshops and guided tours.
The castle's café is a cosy spot to unwind after exploring. Serving a range of refreshments and light snacks, it's the perfect place to reflect on your journey through time.
Finally, end your trip with a visit to the gift shop. It offers a selection of souvenirs, from historical books to unique crafts, allowing you to take a piece of Tamworth Castle home with you.
About Tamworth Castle
Tamworth Castle, a Grade I listed Norman castle, has a fascinating history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era.
Originally a simple wooden fortress, it has played a key role in many historical events. It served as a home for Mercian kings and was an important site during the English Civil War.
Over the centuries, the castle's structure changed a lot. It's one of the best examples of a motte-and-bailey castle in England. The Jacobean period brought significant design changes, reflecting the Ferrers family's style.
Important historical figures are linked to the castle. Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians, restored it in 913, fortifying the town against Danish attacks. Later, under William the Conqueror, the castle got its Norman motte and bailey structure.
It also played a vital role in the 17th century when captured by Parliamentary forces in the Civil War.
In 1891, Tamworth Corporation bought the castle, and it was opened as a museum in 1899. This allowed the public to explore its long and varied history.
Ways to save on your train ticket to Tamworth Castle
Embarking on a journey to Tamworth Castle becomes even more appealing when you discover the variety of ways to save on train tickets.
A great starting point is to use the Avanti's Journey Planner. This tool assists in finding the most economical fares and helps efficiently plan your trip. It's especially useful for those who want to explore different travel options and secure the best deals.
If you're planning a trip with family or friends, consider the Family and Group Tickets. These offer a more budget-friendly way to travel in groups, and the added advantage is that children under five travel free. It’s a practical option for those visiting Tamworth Castle with their families.
For those who travel frequently, joining Club Avanti can be beneficial. Members enjoy a 10% discount on their next journey, alongside other benefits such as complimentary tickets and discounts on refreshments.
Lastly, booking your train tickets in advance, ideally eight to 12 weeks before your trip, can lead to significant savings. Advance bookings can offer up to 70% off regular train fares, making it a savvy choice for early planners heading to Tamworth Castle.
Get the app
Improve your travel experience to Tamworth Castle with the Avanti app. Made to simplify travelling by train, it offers swift journey modifications and seat selection for choosing your ideal spot.
It also provides the convenience of contactless e-tickets delivered directly to your smartphone. And with the 'Track My Train' feature, you can stay informed about your train's status in real time.
