A LOVEABLE dragon, an elusive princess and a knowledgeable knight all owed to a spellbinding day at Warwick Castle.
It is no mean feat to keep three youngsters with invariably short attention spans entertained for a whole five hours. Yet the bumper-packed offerings from the Zog and the Quest for the Golden Star trail, and talented castle entertainers, pulled it off with ease – despite the castle itself being closed.
The trail map, punctuated with appearances from the clumsy dragon and novel stamping stations, was the perfect tonic for a compelling journey around the historic grounds.
Meanwhile, a Horrible Histories maze provided a challenge with a difference while Sir Gadabout’s Knight School proved a worthy hit, with a gold star reward for its graduates.
Roaming highwaymen, soldiers and Princess Pearl – whose rescue was a concern aired to castle soldiers by my nieces – were also a welcome source of entertainment, particularly for grown-ups in need of a well-earned rest.
The looming magnificence of the castle, along with its bustling courtyard and lush gardens alone ensured, not only a much-needed day-out for children and adults alike, but a promise of spring and brighter times ahead.
Tickets cost from £8 for children and from £12 for adults when booked in advance. The Zog Trail is available until September 5.
Visit www.warwickcastle.com for more details.