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Carisbrooke Castle
About 22 minutes from park
About Carisbrooke Castle
If you’ve settled on the Isle of Wight as your next holiday destination, you’ll find an abundance of natural and historical attractions to fill up your itinerary with. That includes Carisbrooke Castle, a magnificent medieval stronghold in the town of Newport which was famously used to imprison Charles I during the English Civil War.
What can I see at Carisbrooke Castle?
As an English Heritage site that’s defended the Isle of Wight from enemy invaders for nearly 1000 years, you can expect to soak up plenty of history at Carisbrooke Castle. The formidable fort has been rebuilt many times over the centuries and those with a keen eye for architecture will spot numerous Saxon, Norman, Elizabethan and Edwardian features. Begin your visit by strolling along the castle’s walls and climbing up to the top of the Keep to awe at panoramic vistas of Newport and beyond. Next, head indoors to see where Charles I was kept captive and to explore the extensive Carisbrooke Castle Museum. Set up in the early 1900s by Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter, Princess Beatrice, it’s packed with fascinating exhibits on the castle’s lengthy – and sometimes tumultuous – heritage.
If you’re an animal lover or are holidaying with kids in tow, don’t skip saying hello to Carisbrooke Castle’s famous donkeys or watching them draw up water from the castle’s ancient well. You’ll also have access to a beautiful Edwardian-style garden bursting with vibrant blooms and the peaceful St Nicholas’ Chapel that’s home to the island’s main WWI memorial. Top off your visit to Carisbrooke with an indulgent homemade cake or a refreshment at the castle’s cosy tearoom.
How to get to Carisbrooke Castle
Carisbrooke Castle is located just southwest of Newport. You can reach it by car from the town centre by driving along the B3323/Castle Road and then taking the Castle Hill road up to the venue’s carpark. Look out for signs to Carisbrooke village and then for the castle itself. If you’d rather take public transport, the 6, 7, 12 and 38 Southern Vectis bus services all pass within a quarter of a mile of the castle’s entrance.