October half-term may only be a week, but for some parents it can feel like a very long week if the weather is cold and wet and the children are bored and fractious.

For a special treat, why not visit the very imposing Warwick Castle in Warwickshire.  During half-term week, the Castle has organised special activities and spooky events for Hallowe’en and is open until 9pm at night.

For those who can’t stay that late, there is still plenty to see and do at the castle.  For the energetic, there are 500 steps to climb if you want to explore the towers and walk along the ramparts.  Have your children peering through the arrow slits and imagine firing arrows onto an enemy below.  Look across to the the huge trebuchet on the other side of the river and admire the views over the city of Warwick and the surrounding countryside.

There are interesting rooms to discover where children can learn about life in the castle and its history.  Feel how heavy the chain mail is to wear and giggle at the medieval toilet which overhangs the dry moat.  Imagine wearing heavy armour or sleeping in a four poster bed.

Included in the admission price is the Bowman Show where children can admire the skill and accuracy of using a bow and arrow. You can also take in the Birds of Prey Display and admire and wonder at the eagles and vultures which are allowed to fly majestically around the castle ramparts whilst you and your children enjoy a picnic on the grass nearby.