Group Travel on The Kent & East Sussex Railway
BODIAM CASTLE
Rails & Ramparts
For groups of 15+ - £15.40 per person
A return steam train journey through the beautiful High Weald to one of the most famous and evocative castles in Britain. Bodiam was built in 1385 as both a defence and a comfortable home and is now owned and looked after by The National Trust.
The exterior is virtually complete and the ramparts rise dramatically above the broad moat. Enough of the interior survives to give an impression of castle life. There are spiral staircases and battlements to explore and wonderful views of the Rother Valley from the top of the towers. A new 15-minute introductory film brings to life the fascinating story of the castle and its inhabitants. With walks, talks, theatre and storytelling there's something for everyone at Bodiam Castle. Younger visitors will especially enjoy the family fun programme for 2008. During the school holidays and on weekends in July there will be opportunities for 'have a go archery', brass rubbing and to find out just how heavy chain mail really was with 'try on armour and medieval clothes' days. On weekends in August you can meet costumed interpreters and learn about medieval warfare, food and theatre (see event listings on the NT website for details of which interpreters are demonstrating on which weekends).
The Wharfside Tearoom offers delicious snacks, teas and hot lunches. The National Trust shop has a superb range of gifts, souvenirs, children's items and books. When other attractions and heritage sites close down for the autumn and winter Bodiam stays open at weekends.