Overview

Nestled amidst a rich landscape of historical significance, Bodiam Castle stands as one of Britain’s most striking ancient monuments. Witness the beauty of medieval grandeur at this 14th-century fortress, complete with spiral staircases, battlements, and the castle’s original wooden portcullis. Everything a family would expect from a castle!

Things to do

A medieval castle offers a plethora of family activities to explore. Enjoy climbing the towering spiral staircases to get a glimpse of the breathtaking views, discover the infamous murder holes where soldiers dropped all kinds of terrible things down onto their attackers, and spot medieval graffiti dotted around the castle. Outside, little ones will love finding the fish that swim around the moat.

Immerse the family in the olden days of knights and kings and cross the original moat. Can the children find the ancient stone unicorn or the medieval bread oven? The Lord and Lady’s apartments and the sleeping quarters of the servants on the stone floor provide a glimpse into medieval life. Volunteers are full of expansive information and are ready to answer all sorts of questions.

The ruins and the volunteers create a historical atmosphere that families of all ages can enjoy. The castle grounds are the perfect place to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Pack up a picnic, bring a rug, and enjoy the view!

Families can also explore the pillbox from WWII that served as a defense to slow down the advancing armies. For animal lovers, there’s plenty to see, from carp and eels in the moat to stag beetles, red-tailed blood bees, and even tawny owls.

Food & Drink

Looking for a place to grab a bite to eat? Head over to the Wharf tea room for a cup of tea, freshly brewed coffee, or a light lunch. Don’t forget to treat the family to their delicious homemade cakes! Alternatively, try the Castle View café offering a variety of sandwiches, scones, and hot or cold refreshments. If the weather’s nice, why not pack a picnic and enjoy it on the spacious grounds? There are plenty of benches available to relax on.