Things to see and do at Goodrich Castle
Visiting Goodrich Castle for the first time? Here we give you a selection of highlights of the things to see and do at the castle, including the free audio guide, the fun family trail, the best places for glorious views, eating and shopping, and hints and tips on exploring the history of this remarkable castle for yourself.
Hear the history of Goodrich
Pick up a free audio guide and listen to Goodrich's eventful past as you stroll through the castle grounds.
Learn about the lives of the inhabitants of the castle through the centuries. You can discover the story of a Civil War siege that partially destroyed Goodrich Castle. As one of the finest and best preserved of all medieval castles in England, you imagine what Goodrich Castle was like in its prime as you explore the castle ruins. Take a virtual tour of Goodrich Castle here before you visit.
Follow our family trail
Discover what life was like, working and living in a medieval fortress in 1296, and pick up our free ‘As I was saying’ family game from the Visitor Centre.
The game features nine cartoon characters of people who lived at Goodrich and gives you a glimpse into their lives. You can choose how they might have answered questions – or make up your own cheeky replies! Read our Goodrich Castle Family Guide here.
Learn about the castle under siege
There’s plenty to learn about this fascinating medieval fortress, from its origins in the 11th century through to its dramatic fall in 1646. Look out for the murder holes built into the castle walls, and admire the stunning stained-glass windows in the 13th-century chapel. Inside the Visitor Centre, there’s an exhibition all about the history of the castle. You can read more about Goodrich Castle’s history before you visit here.
Learn about the famous Civil War siege of Goodrich Castle. Don’t miss the famous 'Roaring Meg,' the only surviving Civil War mortar and other Civil War artefacts from the 1646 siege. Please note that 'Roaring Meg' will be under cover during the winter.
Spot local wildlife
Climb up the twisty steps of Goodrich Castle to the top of the tower. You’ll be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Wye Valley and the River Wye. From here, you can see both the English and Welsh countryside.
See if you can spot the wildlife who call Goodrich Castle home, such as house martins, jackdaws, blackbirds, robins and more!
Stop for a snack
Enjoy a fine selection of refreshments and light bites in the delightful tearoom at Goodrich Castle.
Try our delicious soup, a ploughman's lunch, sandwiches and hot snacks, jacket potatoes, cream teas and cakes. Children's lunch bags are available, along with vegan and gluten-free options. You can find allergen and nutritional information here.
As you finish your tour of Goodrich castle, why not visit the shop and grab yourself heritage-inspired memorabilia as a souvenir of your trip? Every cuppa, cake, souvenir or kids’ treat you buy helps the charity look after England’s heritage. Thank you.