Visit the Bustling Town of Warwick, a Historic Settlement Founded in 914 AD.
Warwick is the county town of Warwickshire, housing a population of approximately 34,000. The town boasts many fine restaurants, some fabulous traditional English pubs, Warwick Racecourse, and Warwick Castle.
Warwick Castle, Warwick Town Centre
The Art Kitchen (Thai), Warwick Town Centre
The Oculus Building, University of Warwick
The historic town’s private schools have provided excellent primary and secondary education since to 914AD and 1879 respectively.
More recently, in 1965, the University of Warwick was established as part of a government initiative to develop opportunities for higher education in the UK. Since then, the university has become one of the UK’s leading universities.
The University of Warwick is home to The Warwick Arts Centre, where there are some fantastic theatre performances, and famous comedians frequent the stage during their tours.
The town is surrounded by Warwickshire’s wonderful countryside, which is predominantly made up of flat terrain with some undulating areas. There are plenty of country walks to be taken here, some of which are detailed in our blog.
The History of Warwick Town
Warwick town was founded by Ethelfleda, the sister of Edward the Elder, in 914 AD.
The town was appointed as a position of defense against the Danish invaders and was likely chosen because of its proximity to the River Avon.
The point at which Warwick is situated today overlooks where small neighboring settlements already stood and was conveniently located for roads to London, Stratford-Upon-Avon, and Coventry.
The area was partially protected by a wall and partially surrounded by a ditch, contributing to the decision to build the Anglo-Saxon town in its current location.
Medieval features of the town include the castle, Warwick Racecourse, St Nicholas Meadow, the River Avon and the grounds of the Priory.
As well as the architectural gems of Warwick’s medieval heritage, some later periodic buildings are present, built in the late 17th, early 18th century.
In 1694, the Great Fire of Warwick devastated many of the traditional, Middle Age buildings in the center of Warwick. Rather than erecting buildings of the former style, the townhouses were rebuilt in the attractive style of the Georgian era.
Things to See and Do in Warwick
Warwick Castle
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, this medieval castle is one of the most dramatic and well-preserved artifacts of its kind. Click here to read more about visiting Warwick Castle.
Warwick Market
Held every Saturday from 9am-4pm, this market is held in Central Square and sells fruit and vegetables, olive oil, clothing, hardware, pet supplies and more!
The Market Hall
Erected in the 17th century, the Market Hall Museum houses exhibitions on the prehistory of Warwick, including a popular dinosaur exhibit. There is a natural history section of the displays, with hands-on activities for children.
St Nicholas Park
Whether you want a walk or boat ride along the river or even a round of golf, this well-kept park has a buzzing atmosphere and is open to the general public.
Lord Leycester Hospital
Visit this 14th and 15th-century timber-framed building to explore the base of Warwick’s medieval guilds. The hospital became a rest home for retired servicemen and offers a fantastic tearoom facility.
Warwick Racecourse
Established in 1694, Warwick Racecourse was built to attract wealthy professionals to the area following The Great Fire. Having been the first racecourse to include a jump in the race, the course is rich in its heritage and holds regular race meetings.
Antique Shops
If you enjoy browsing through boutiques and antique stores, you will be spoilt for choice when visiting Warwick.
Hill Close Gardens
Featuring sixteen Victorian garden plots that have been restored to their original structure, Hill Close Gardens open 11am-4pm, Monday – Friday.