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Explore Carisbrooke Castle: Get Your Tickets

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The gatehouse entrance to Carisbrooke Castle

NEW

Tickets to the Carisbrooke Castle

from

£12.50

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Immerse yourself in the allure of Carisbrooke Castle, where romance meets history and promises an unforgettable day out on the Isle of Wight.
Enjoy the visual delight of panoramic island views from the castle walls, a sight that will absolutely take your breath away.
Visit the tranquil Princess Beatrice Garden, a serene escape within the castle, where you can relax amid the stunning flora.
Want to meet the adorable Carisbrooke donkeys? Watch daily demonstrations of these charming creatures working the 16th-century tread.
Gain access to the room where King Charles I was held captive and unearth tales of his daring escape attempts right where it all happened!

Immerse yourself in the allure of Carisbrooke Castle, where romance meets history and promises an unforgettable day out on the Isle of Wight.
Enjoy the visual delight of panoramic island views from the castle walls, a sight that will absolutely take your breath away.
Visit the tranquil Princess Beatrice Garden, a serene escape within the castle, where you can relax amid the stunning flora.
Want to meet the adorable Carisbrooke donkeys? Watch daily demonstrations of these charming creatures working the 16th-century tread.
Gain access to the room where King Charles I was held captive and unearth tales of his daring escape attempts right where it all happened!

Inclusions

Entry to Carisbrooke Castle

Tip: The castle has ample picnic spots. Grab a local ‘Ploughman’s lunch’ from town and savor it amidst history.
This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Carisbrooke Castle

Visit Carisbrooke Castle | A Royal fortress on the Isle of Wight

Over the course of a thousand years, Carisbrooke Castle has taken on the roles of a fortress, a royal residence and a prison on the Isle of Wight. It has also undergone heavy remodeling under George Carey, Elizabeth I's cousin in the Middle Ages. Today, it stands as a beautiful and romantic relic of the past, with panoramic views from the high castle walls. You can also meet the Carisbrooke donkeys and watch them raise water from the ancient wells in the castle.

Things to know before booking your Carisbrooke Castle tickets

Book in Advance: It’s recommended to book your Carisbrooke Castle ticket in advance. This ensures you secure your entry and skip any queues.
Limited Accessibility: Carisbrooke Castle has limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges, due to architectural constraints.
Concession: If you are a student with NUS card or are aged 65 and over, you are eligible for Concession tickets, so remember to carry ID proof.
Tickets for Children: If your child is under five years old, you don't have to pay but you will have to book a free infant ticket. For 5–17-year-old children, you can book a child ticket.
Group Discount: If you are booking for 11 or more people, you can get a group discount, provided that you pay for all the tickets together.

Why visit Carisbrooke Castle

To explore the castle and the history behind it. Carisbrooke Castle is steeped in historical relevance. It was where King Charles I was imprisoned after the Civil War. You can even see the very rooms he was held in and tried to escape from.
To meet the Carisbrooke donkeys. Undoubtedly a major attraction at Carisbrooke Castle, these adorable resident donkeys can be seen during their demonstrations every day, as they work a 16th century tread wheel to raise water from the castle well.
To see the panoramic views from the castle walls. Venture out on a wall walk and you can go all around the castle, with the high walls giving you a birds-eye view of the island and beyond.
To see the Princess Beatrice Garden. This beautiful Edwardian garden is based on the original garden of Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria's daughter. The colors of the plants are themed red, blue and gold to represent the Princess's crest.

Carisbrooke Castle highlights

Carisbrooke's Resident Donkeys

As has been the tradition for hundreds of years, the resident donkeys at the Carisbrooke Castle still draws water from the castle well. Join in to watch the demonstration where they use a 16th century tread wheel to raise water 161 feet from the bottom.

Norman Keep

The ancient Norman castle keep is a spectacular place to have panoramic views around the island. The building of the keep started in 1100, when the island was given to Baldwin de Redvers by Henry I. It is believed that Baldwin was the one who built the motte-and-bailey castle that you can still see to this day.

Princess Beatrice Garden

Designed by Chris Beardshaw in 2009, this charming garden was made after Princess Beatrice's private garden retreat. With plants chosen in the Princess's crest colors and architecture that blends in seamlessly with the architecture of the castle and the nearby St Nicholas Chapel, it is a subtle reminder of the castle's history.

Exhibition and Museum

Don't miss the chance to explore the interesting history of Carisbrooke Castle at the 16th century guard house. You can also stop by the Carisbrooke Castle Museum which has temporary exhibits as well as a number of Charles I's commemorative items.

St Nicholas' Chapel

Although there has always been a chapel within the castle grounds, the present chapel was built to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Charles I's execution in 1904. The chapel also became a war memorial for those who died after the First World War.

Carisbrooke Castle Tearoom

Right above what was once the castle's carriage room, the Castle Tearoom serves quite a selection of snacks, light lunches that include a range of sandwiches, cakes, ice creams and drinks. All the items available here are locally produced and they also offer vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options.

Plan your visit to Carisbrooke Castle

Timings

Getting There

Facilities

Stay

Restaurants

Nearby

Timings: 10 AM - 4 PM
Closed on: Weekdays during winter months
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Carisbrooke Castle is during the spring and summer months, particularly from late spring to early autumn. This period, typically from May to September, offers pleasant weather and allows you to explore the castle grounds and enjoy various outdoor activities comfortably.

Address: The Carisbrooke Castle is located at Castle Hill, Newport PO30 1XY, United Kingdom.
Find on Map.

You can get to Carisbrooke Castle using either public transport options like the bus and ferry or even cycle or drive up to the castle.

Bus:
From Newport, take bus numbers 6, 7, 12 or 38 to Carisbrooke High Street.
The castle is a 10-minute walk from there.

Ferry:
The nearest ferry port is in West Cowes and bus number 1 frequently connects it with Newport.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office on the day of your visit.
Tearoom: The tearoom is located in the Carisbrooke Castle where you can purchase food and drinks.
Restrooms: There are restrooms located throughout the Carisbrooke Castle.
Parking: Parking is available just a few meters away from the castle.
Picnic Area: There is a lawn area with benches and picnic tables.
Gift Shop: The shop has locally sourced products from around the island including books, wines, jams and more!

Budget: Travelodge Newport, Calverts Hotel, Premier Inn

Mid-range: The Waverley, Charter House, The Wheatsheaf Hotel

Luxury: One Holyrood Hotel, Hewitt's Restaurant & Rooms, Wight Architecture and Old Church House Bed & Breakfast

Valentino's: Valentino's Restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions at great value. Its homely ambiance complements its delicious dishes.
Angel Bar and Grill: Angel Bar and Grill serves a variety of dishes, including delectable burgers. With prices that are on the upper end of reasonable, the welcoming staff, and good music is sure to enhance your experience.
The Eight Bells: A homely pub serving delightful local cuisine and offering an array of beers. It also welcomes families with a vast soft play zone for children.
Artista Pizza: Artista Pizza offers a variety of pizzas and other dishes with generous portions, top-notch quality, and friendly service with affordable options.
New Ming Garden: New Ming Garden serves fresh, made-to-order dishes. It also boasts a charming, well-decorated dining space with a vast menu.

Newtown National Nature Reserve: Newtown National Nature Reserve features a charming former town hall and a quaint brick structure dating back to around 1699 with local history exhibits and a shop.
Tapnell Farm Park: Tapnell Farm Park is a farm-themed amusement park, perfect for children, where you can meet meerkats and wallabies. Enjoy a petting zoo, go-kart rides, sledge slides, and play areas.
Fort Victoria Country Park: A woodland park, Fort Victoria Country Park has a fortress's remains and hosts a seasonal Reptilarium, a planetarium, a museum as well as a cozy cafe.
The Needles Landmark Attraction: Perched by the sand cliffs, The Needles Landmark Attraction offers fun rides and attractions. Enjoy a chairlift to the beach and explore the lighthouse.

Frequently asked questions about Carisbrooke Castle tickets

Are Carisbrooke Castle tickets available online?

Yes, Carisbrooke Castle tickets are available online for a hassle-free experience.

How much do the Carisbrooke Castle tickets cost?

Carisbrooke Castle tickets for adults start at £11.30 and for children at £6.80.

What is the cancellation policy for Carisbrooke Castle ticket?

You can cancel your tickets to Carisbrooke Castle up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What are Carisbrooke Castle opening hours?

Carisbrooke Castle is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. It is typically open during the winter months only on weekends.

What is the best time to visit Carisbrooke Castle?

The best time to visit the Carisbrooke Castle is during mornings or right before closing for smaller crowds. Plan your trip between May to September so that you can walk around without extreme weather and enjoy the surroundings.

How long does a tour of the Carisbrooke Castle take?

It takes about 2 hours to complete a tour of the Carisbrooke Castle, but you can always spend some time taking in the scenery or having a picnic!

How do I get to Carisbrooke Castle?

You can get to Carisbrooke Castle by bus, ferry, cycle or car. From Newport, you can take buses 6, 7, 12 or 38 to Carisbrooke High Street and a 10-minute walk will get you there.

Is Carisbrooke Castle wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, due to the steep climb and other architectural constraints, Carisbrooke Castle is not accessible for wheelchair users.