Staying at the Warwick Castle Hotel: A Perfect Family Adventure

Staying at the Warwick Castle Hotel: A Perfect Family Adventure

No comments

If you’re planning a visit to Warwick Castle, whether for its incredible seasonal events or just to explore the historic grounds, staying at the Warwick Castle Hotel is a choice that combines convenience, comfort, and a touch of medieval magic. We recently stayed at the Warwick Castle Hotel during our visit to Warwick Castle for its magical Christmas festivities. While we’ll save the details of our Christmas at the Castle experience for another post, let me share why the Warwick Castle Hotel is perfect for a short family UK Holiday. 

A Smooth Start with Self Check-In

From the moment we arrived, the experience was stress-free. The hotel’s self-check-in kiosks were incredibly user-friendly, making the process quick and seamless. Little J checked us in and enjoyed watching as it printed our room keys. After a long journey, this efficient check-in allowed us to get settled and start enjoying our stay almost immediately. The staff were also on hand to assist with any questions, adding a personal touch to the convenience of technology.

Spacious Family Rooms with Medieval Theming

Our room was on the ground floor and was designed with families in mind. It featured a double bed, bunk beds, and a trundle bed, providing more than enough space for families. Little J was thrilled with the bunk beds, especially as he was tucked away in his own little nook with a curtain that separated him from the main bedroom area. The theming throughout the room was so detailed with swords and shields mounted on the walls.

Practical touches like plenty of storage, a large bathroom, and tea and coffee-making facilities made our stay even more comfortable. The hotel is still pretty new however everywhere was spotlessly clean. Not one spec of dust anywhere and the bathroom was immaculate. 

Just a Stroll Away from the Castle

One of the biggest perks of staying at the Warwick Castle Hotel is its proximity to the castle itself. It’s just a short walk away, which made it incredibly convenient to head back and forth throughout the day. We were attending Christmas at the Castle and it was extremely cold so we loved the ease of having the hotel so close.

Dining Options for Every Appetite

The hotel offers excellent dining options to suit every taste. We started our day at the Knights Table restaurant, which serves a buffet-style breakfast with plenty of variety. You do have to book your breakfast time slot before arrival. We chose 10am each day and it wasn't busy at all. The buffet breakfast was fresh and there was lots of it. They replenished anything that was running low or had been out for a little while. 

In the evening, the Knights Table transforms into a carvery-style restaurant. We booked our table for 7:30pm and if I am honest I would not recommend. The food looked like it had been sat for hours. There was not much choice for kids and when my son asked for more tomato pasta as there was none the chef rolled his eyes and just said ten minutes. There was only us and another family eating so I understand they may not want to waste food but most of it was inedible. It was a real shame and it was quite expensive too. It was the Christmas carvery menu and it cost £80 for two adult meals, 1 childs meal, 1 pint of lager and a soft drink. 

Luckily it didn't dampen our spirits but it was a shock compared to breakfast which we really enjoyed.

If you’re looking for something lighter or just want to relax with a drink, the adjacent Tavern is a fantastic option. We ate there our second night and the food was really lovely. We enjoyed a selection of small plates style food but it does have a menu and kids menu. It's got a lovely atmosphere and really busy compared to the Knight's table.

Final Thoughts

Our 2 night stay at the Warwick Castle Hotel was enjoyable and perfect for our visit to the castle. From the family-friendly rooms to the convenience of being just a stone’s throw from the castle, every detail is designed to make your stay enjoyable and hassle-free. Whether you’re visiting for a special event or a general day out, staying here adds an extra layer of magic to the experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Warwick Castle, we highly recommend considering the Warwick Castle Hotel for your stay. And don’t forget to check back for our upcoming post all about Christmas at the Castle—it was truly a magical experience!

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

Celebrating Oktoberfest At Alton Towers

Celebrating Oktoberfest At Alton Towers

No comments

Last updated Sept 2024

You all know we are huge fans of Alton Towers and try to visit the theme park as much as possible throughout the season. Along the way we love to join in with the events that Alton Towers host throughout the year.  From 7th September Alton Towers will be transformed into the German festival Oktoberfest. The festival will take place until 29th September and you can enjoy all the fun and entertainment of Oktoberfest included in your admission fee. 

What to expect at Alton Towers Oktoberfest

For those not familiar with the festival, Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest, annual festival in Munich, Germany, is held over a two-week period and ending on the first Sunday in October. The festival originated on October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

Alton Towers bring the fun of the festival to the resort offering delicious food, live entertainment and of course, beer.

When you enter Alton Towers you will be greeted with German music, blue and white decorations and the smell of delicious food in the background.

If you head to the front lawn you will see a huge Oktoberfest entrance leading to a variety of food stalls including churros, brownies and marshmallows.

You will see the Wunder Bar to the left of the stage which has a range of German beers on offer. You can choose to purchase a pint at the bar or head to the souvenir stall first and purchase a stein glass. Then you can head back to the Wunder Bar where they will fill up your stein which averages about 2 and a half pints. 

There are plenty of picnic benches on the front lawn where you can sit and enjoy your beer and snacks or you can sit upstairs in the Wunder Bar however seating is very limited to just a few tables. 

The live entertainment stage which has been a permanent fixture over the past few months has a variety of  entertainment including german dancing which was a crowd favourite. 

If you are familiar with the resort you can head to the Bierkellar which is situated in the courtyard in Mutiny Bay. Undercover seating options are available here with live entertainment throughout the day. This year Oktoberfest has extended from the theme park entrance and front lawn to the whole of Mutiny Bay. 

Anything Else?

As well as enjoying the German fun you can also enjoy all your favourite rides. 

Opening times do vary so be sure to check out the opening times schedule. The park closing is anywhere from 5-7pm depending on the day. 

Oktoberfest is included in your ticket price so is no extra cost to you. 

Head to the resort before the 29th September for your chance to join in all the fun. 

To extend your fun you can stay over at one of the many choices of accommodation at Alton Towers. 

If you found this post useful there are a few ways that you could say thanks and support Playdays and Runways

Have you visited Oktoberfest at Alton Towers? Leave us a comment below and let us know about your visit 

Like us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Buy Us A Virtual Coffee

Share This Post With Friends Who May Also Find It Useful. 

Michelle

Read More

What's New At Alton Towers For 2024

What's New At Alton Towers For 2024

No comments

Excitement is building among theme park enthusiasts as parks across the UK gear up to open this month. Although Alton Towers had limited rides open during half term in February, the park officially opens on March 16th, heralding the start of the 2024 season. Boasting not only a theme park, but also CBeebies Land, World of David Walliams, accommodation options, a waterpark, and an 18-hole golf course, Alton Towers Resort is the ideal destination for a day visit or a weekend getaway. As the new season dawns, anticipation is high for what Alton Towers has in store for its guests in 2024.

Nemesis Reborn

Nemesis, the popular ride at Alton Towers Resort, had remained closed throughout 2023 after shutting down at the end of 2022. However, visitors to the park were thrilled to watch the installation of new tracks throughout the year, with most of them being black and red in colour. In May 2023, Nemesis Sub Terra reopened with the return of the Phalanx, who had closed down Nemesis in the previous year. The anticipation around the reopening of Nemesis Reborn is sky-high, and Alton Towers Resort has confirmed that Nemesis Reborn will open its doors to the public on 16th March 2024. Though visitors can't wait to get back on Nemesis, they're anticipating long queues. Will the ride be the same as before, or will there be some exciting surprises in store? Only time will tell.

Bluey at CBeebies Land

There's a new friend coming to CBeebies Land this year and it's Bluey the very popular blue heeler dog. Bluey can be found every day in CBeebies Land for a meet and greet from 23rd March 2024. Bluey is very popular amongst little ones so you won't want to miss him. 

10 Years of CBeebies Land

I remember when CBeebies Land First opened. Our youngest was only one and as we are all theme park crazy he had already visited Alton Towers a few times by then. CBeebies Land brought a whole new burst of colour and fun to the park and is great for little ones to enjoy rides but also meet their favourite CBeebies Characters. As it's CBeebies Land 10th Birthday you can expect to lots of live entertainment, activities and special meet and greets to celebrate. More information coming soon. 

Events

While some events have unfortunately been cancelled this year, including Festival of Thrills and one of our favourites Mardi Gras, Alton Towers has confirmed that Oktoberfest, Scarefest, Fireworks, and Christmas will go ahead as planned. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities and entertainment throughout the year, making Alton Towers a year-round destination for fun and excitement.

If you're planning a visit to Alton Towers this year, be sure to check out all the latest updates and information on their website. With so much to see and do, the 2024 season promises to be the most exciting one yet. So pack your bags, grab your tickets, and get ready for a thrilling adventure at Alton Towers.

READ THESE NEXT

WHERE TO STAY AT THE ALTON TOWERS RESORT

CELEBRATING OKTOBERFEST AT ALTON TOWERS

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

Mardi Gras At Alton Towers

Mardi Gras At Alton Towers

No comments

This post was last updated May 2023

The second of the six events this year at Alton Towers Resort is happening from 20th May to 18th June and it is Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras also known as Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday happens the day before Ash Wednesday or 47 days before Easter. It’s a carnival celebration which highlights and celebrates the last day of eating rich fatty food and therefore giving up a certain type of food for lent.

Alton Towers transform Towers Street into a carnival celebration with lots of themed stages reflecting different areas of the park. The main stage on the front lawn has entertainment throughout the day and you can watch from one of the many picnic benches. For those that would like to sample foods of the world 'food street' is also just under the walkway alongside the towers. You can enjoy a range of foods including our favourite King donut.

Whilst walking around the park be prepared to see stilt walkers, dancers, musicians and lots of other family themed entertainment.

The Mardi Gras celebrations are included in your ticket so you can enjoy everything Mardi Gras has to offer at no extra cost.

You will also find some Mardi Gras souvenirs in Tower Street shop including hats, beads and T-shirts.

Alton Towers can be so busy, rushing from ride to ride so it’s nice to just sit back and enjoy the entertainment provided.

As I said earlier this is the second of six events happening at Alton Towers Resort this year. Next is in September when Alton Towers will be transformed for Oktoberfest. Prepare for spooks, chills and family fun in October when Alton Towers is transformed for Scarefest. Another personal favourite of ours is the fireworks display that happens in November and then a nice way to finish off the year is celebrating Christmas time at Alton Towers.

As well as Mardi Gras there are lots of new things to enjoy at Alton Towers Resort including David Walliams World featuring the Gangsta Granny Ride and the four Retro Squad Rides. 

READ THESE NEXT

VIRTUAL QUEUE FOR MANDRILL MAYHEM AT CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES

OUR TOP 5 MERLIN ATTRACTIONS FROM BUYAGIFT

WHERE TO STAY AT THE ALTON TOWERS RESORT

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

Virtual Queue for Mandrill Mayhem At Chessington World Of Adventures

Virtual Queue for Mandrill Mayhem At Chessington World Of Adventures

No comments

Disclosure - This post contains affiliate links. 

Being Merlin Pass Holders we cannot wait to head to Chessington World of Adventures this year. It's been a while since we visited and we are looking forward to the new additions to the park. From the 15th May 2023 you will be able to head in to the world of Jumanji at Chessington World of Adventures. The new land offers visits 3 new rides - Ostrich Stampede, Mamba Strike and Mandrill Mayhem. Unlike the other rides Mandrill Mayhem will be operated using a virtual queuing system. If you haven't used a virtual queuing system before, it's really simple and I've popped more details below. 

What Is A Virtual Queue?

A virtual queue is exactly how it sounds. You wait your queue time exploring and enjoying the rest of the park until it is your time to ride. 

How Do I Get A Queue Time?

Getting a queue time should be fairly simple. All you need to do is on the day of your visit to Chessington World of Adventures head to the reserve and ride website from 9:45am. This will allow you to book a time slot to return to Mandrill Mayhem. You will also be able to scan QR codes within the park or reserve a slot through the Chessington World of Adventures app. 

How Will I Know When It Is My Time To Ride?

Once you have reserved your virtual queue time, a countdown will appear and once you reach zero you will be able to make your way to the ride. You will be given 45 minutes to return to the ride. 

What If I Couldn't Get A Return Time?

Queue times will be given on a first come first served basis. Chessington have announced that more virtual queue slots will become available throughout the day so I would just keep checking the website to app. 

 

How Many Times Can I Ride Mandrill Mayhem?

Guests can ride Mandrill Mayhem once per day. This allows more guests to be able to access the virtual queue and ride. 

How Much Is A Virtual Queue Slot?

Virtual queue slots for Mandrill Mayhem are free. Fast Track is not available for the ride.

How Many People Can I Reserve A Virtual Queue Slot For?

When accessing the reserve and ride website you can book a virtual queue slot for up to 6 people.

What Happens If The Ride Closes?

If the ride closes while you are in the virtual queue your countdown will pause. This will allow the ride time to get up and running again however if it closes for the rest of your day then your queue time will be cancelled. 

Using a Virtual Queuing system may seem daunting however once you have accessed the ride and reserve website you should be able to access the virtual queue with ease. We used virtual queues on our recent trip to Walt Disney World and the process was simple. The only downside is only being able to ride once but I understand why that is the rule. 

Are you looking forward to visiting the new World of Jumanji at Chessington World of Adventures?

READ THESE NEXT

WHAT TO EXPECT AT SHREK'S ADVENTURE, LONDON

OUR TOP 5 MERLIN ATTRACTIONS FROM BUYAGIFT

ZOG AT WARWICK CASTLE

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

How Scary Is Scarefest At Alton Towers?

How Scary Is Scarefest At Alton Towers?

No comments

This post was updated September 2023

You all know we love Alton Towers. I have been visiting since I was a little girl and I love how the park has developed and expanded over the years just getting bigger and better every year. A few years ago Alton Towers announced lots of events that would happen over the year including Mardi Gras, Oktoberfest and our personal favourite Scarefest. We often get asked how scary is Alton Towers Scarefest? What I love about Alton Towers is they cater for all ages and you can make it as family friendly or scary as you want as there is so much going on. 

What To Expect When Visiting Scarefest, Alton Towers 

Alton Towers really do get their spook on when it comes to the Halloween event and you can expect all kinds of tricks and treats. 

Open till 9pm every night you can experience your favourite rides in the dark, 4 scare mazes, family fun and new for 2023 Daz Games - Panic 

How Scary Is Scarefest At Alton Towers?

The park itself isn't scary however like I said early it can be as scary as you like with 4 scare mazes and new for 2023 Daz Games Panic. These chargeable attractions are not for the faint hearted, trust me I've done a few. Whilst they make you jump and scream (I did both) the actors inside these mazes don't touch you they are just there to give you a scare. 

What Is Daz Games - Panic?

This is a new attraction for 2023 and it claims it will take you on the first adrenaline-inducing escape room meets live action scare maze for the ultimate horror experience.

I do love an escape room however you are plunged into darkness and have just 7 minutes to complete a series of tests that will challenge the mind and body as you try to locate the symbols and escape…. all whilst evading capture from the inhabitants within.

Racing against the clock you'll have to think fast and stay calm as you take on an AI-themed assault of the senses… all before the game strikes back and traps you within. Forever

What Scare Mazes Are Available This Year?

New for 2023 - Altonville Mine Tours - Tiny's Revenge

Rumours are afoot that the old Altonville Mines are alive with activity once again. Following a breakthrough from local law enforcers, the notorious Skin Snatchers have been detained...but for how long? The ironically named Tiny, however, has evaded capture and is believed to still reside within the Mines. Explore at your peril and risk the adventure, if you dare.

The Invitation 

The Lakeside Cemetery invites you to join them for a grave experience that will live with you for eternity. Their friendly funeral director is dying to assist you as you descend in to the burial chamber, where you can choose your final resting place. Some caskets have already been filled while others are empty, waiting for you. Recommended 12+

The Attic: Terror of the Towers 

In Alton people talk of the Governess – how she’s haunted by the death of young children. She wants revenge, and she will do it by seizing the spirits of the living in retribution. They say her ghost haunts The Attic and that’s where you’re headed. Recommended 12+

Darkest Depths

Enjoy some extra-spooky swashbuckling aboard ‘The Mutiny’, a notoriously spine-chilling ghost ship. You’ll truly earn your golden Piece of Eight by venturing into the darkest depths, avoiding the hazardous calls of the treacherous Sirens, dodging the swords of terrifyingly ghoulish pirate mutineers and coming face to face with the Kraken – the legendary monster of the seas! Recommended 12+

We have done a few scare attractions over the years with Altonville Mine Tours our most recent and I can confirm they are very scary.

How Much Are The Scare Mazes?

Each maze is chargeable and can be pre-booked online. 

Daz Games - Panic

£10 or £8 for Merlin Pass Holders

Altonville Mine Tours - Tiny's Revenge, The Invitation, The Attic: Terror of the Towers  and Darkest Depths

£34 for all 4 or £27.20 for Merlin Pass Holders. All 4 must be completed within 2 hours. 

I think on the day you can purchase single scare mazes as we have done that in the past.

What Attractions Are Suitable For All The Family?

Alton Towers do try to make it suitable for everyone and over the years we have seen new attractions introduced which make it a family friendly event too.

New for 2023 - Burial Grounds

Burial Grounds is a free-flowing outdoor scare zone shadowed by the mighty Wicker Man where you'll encounter the rejectors of modern-day society fulfilling their terrifying primal instincts.

Trick O'Treat Town

Suitable for all ages Trick O'Treat Town is an interactive walkthrough where you must pluck up the courage to knock on doors. The residents of Spooky Avenue up to Witchy Woods love Trick or Treating so be prepared for plenty of treats and tricks too.

Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 2 adults can accompany a child without a purchase of a bag (£12 or £9.60 for Merlin Pass Holders)

Alton Ancestors

On Arrival you will usually bump in to the Alton Ancestors. They have left their gravestones behind and are back from the dead. One thing you should know about the Ancestors is they love to dance so make sure you check them out and even join in.

CBeebies Land Monster Ball

Join the CBeebies characters live in Big Fun ShowTime as they dance and play games. the show features Bing, Ubercorn, Peter Rabbit and many more of your favourite CBeebies friends, you can even dress up in your favourite costume.

Freaky Fun Zone

You won't want to miss the Freaky Fun Zone on the front lawns.  The five super-freaky Halloween characters put on the most spook-tacular shows, with meet and greets and photo opportunities. Little ones will love this as the characters are so much fun and very colourful. 

There are also many other reasons to visit Alton Towers during Scarefest including the Alton Towers Dungeon

Alton Towers Dungeon

As Scarefest descends on the Towers, enter The Alton Towers Dungeon for a little less laughing… and a lot more screaming! Will you be found guilty by the Bishop of Stafford, survive a visit to the Plague Doctor and make it out of The Witch of Burslem’s Cottage? Enter The Alton Towers Dungeon this Halloween, as we celebrate the most hideously horrible time of year with your delightful peasant screams… If you dare!

Recommended for guests age 10+ and a charge is applicable. Pre booking is advised. 

As well as as this scary fun you can enjoy your favourite rides in the dark as the theme park is open till 9pm every night during Scarefest. 

Also if you want to make the most of your visit to Scarefest you can stay over at the resort where the spooky fun continues. 

READ THESE NEXT

HALLOWEEN EVENTS AT MERLIN ATTRACTIONS

MARDI GRAS AT ALTON TOWERS

CELEBRATING OKTOBERFEST AT ALTON TOWERS

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More