Family-friendly things to do at Bodiam Castle

Family playing on thrones in the courtyard at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex — Family playing in the courtyard at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Bodiam Castle is one of the most popular family attractions in 1066 country. Families visit to experience the feeling of walking over the bridge, through the gatehouse and stepping back into Medieval times as they discover this beautiful ancient monument.

Planning your family visit

You don't need to book in advance – tickets are available at reception.
Bodiam Castle has wide parking spaces, baby changing facilities by the car park, picnic benches and buggy-friendly paths.
Some areas of the castle are not accessible with a buggy or wheelchair – such as the spiral staircases to the top of the towers.

Family-friendly things to do in the castle

Children love spotting the 50-year-old carp in the moat, climbing the steep towers, walking across the battlements and running in the wide-open spaces. Their imaginations are sparked when they see the original portcullis, ancient stone unicorn, murder holes, gun loops and medieval bread oven. Children learn about Medieval life as they explore the remains of the Lord and Lady’s apartments and see where the servants would have slept on the stone floor of the castle.

Bodiam Castle offers the perfect outing for families looking for a fun day out, and for children learning about castles at school. Friendly staff and volunteers are on hand to answer any tricky history questions. Bodiam Castle has a natural beauty and the atmosphere is relaxed so you can feel free to explore in your own way at your own pace.

Family-friendly things to do in the grounds

In the historic landscape that surrounds the castle, have a go at archery on selected dates and meet characters from the 1400s, dress the knight and discover the medieval way of life in a medieval encampment on selected weekends. Throughout the summer holidays there's all the fun of the Medieval Fair. You can pick up an illustrated spotter sheet for each season with wildlife to look out for as you explore - just ask at visitor reception.

The Wharf Tea-room and Castle View Café sell children’s lunch boxes and a selection of drinks, light meals, home-made cakes and ice creams. Treat yourselves to a freshly prepared lunch or cream tea in the Wharf Tea-room beside the river or in the summer, bring your own picnic and rug and relax on the grass as you enjoy the breath-taking views of the Sussex countryside.

Child trying on replica medieval armour — Trying on armour at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex | © National Trust/Jennifer Coe

Family-friendly events at Bodiam Caslte

Bodiam Castle offers seasonal history and nature themed family friendly activities such as crafts, trails, quests, Medieval costumed characters, storytelling, and armour demonstrations. Bodiam Castle shop has a children’s section with books and quality castle-themed gifts such as swords, shields and dressing up costumes as well as pocket money souvenirs.

What's on 2024

Demonstrations by Call to Arms 
12 October

Be transported back in time and onto the Medieval battlefield with expert demonstrations. Free, admission applies.

Spell Quest
12 October to 3 November

Young witches and wizards are wanted to take part in a thrilling quest to save the castle from the clutches of a wicked warlock. £3.50, admission applies.

A Merry Medieval Christmas at Bodiam Castle
30 November to 5 January

Visit Bodiam Castle this winter, to discover Christmas medieval style. With plenty of natural foliage and greenery decorating the castle, find out about the extravagant feasts and celebrations that were part of a medieval Christmas. Free, admission applies.

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