The Birmingham International Tattoo and Warwick Castle

We depart Sussex this morning and make our way north, having made a suitable comfort stop, we arrive in Coventry where there will be time to find a proper lunch (see note at end of form regarding supper).  From Coventry it is a short drive to our hotel where we will get checked into our rooms as soon as they are available. Time to freshen up before we make the short drive to The Resorts World Arena for the 18.00 performance of The Birmingham International Tattoo. The 2024 Birmingham International Tattoo brings together massed marching bands, pipes and drums, and exciting displays including the Inter-Service Field Gun Competition, British Flyball Dog Association competition, plus massed dancers. They will all join forces for over three hours of pageantry and spectacle in the comfort of the Resorts World Arena at the NEC.  The Birmingham Tattoo would not be complete without the ever-popular Spectacular Grand Finale. Featuring over 1,200 performers, including the Parade of the Massed Standards, as well as the Royal Air Force Cosford Queen’s Colour and Escort, the Tattoo will certainly be cause for plenty of celebration and pride. The event includes the traditional “Land of Hope and Glory”, “The Evening Hymn”, led by the Tattoo guest vocalists, and joined by “The Lone Piper” in this fantastic celebration of pomp and pageantry.  Whether you prefer the massed marching bands, the skirl of the pipes and drums, the fast-paced action of the field gun, the flyball dog races, or the pomp and pageantry of the massed standard bearers there is something for all to enjoy. 

After a leisurely breakfast we depart Meriden and make our way to Warwick Castle, one of the most exciting historic locations in Europe, Warwick Castle,  built by a king, the seat of a kingmaker and vital stronghold in the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War, Warwick Castle has played an important role in British history.  Set in the heart of Shakespeare’s England with over 1,100 years of fascinating architecture and amazing views in 64 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. This is one of the most dramatic and complete mediaeval castles in the country. It has been inhabited continuously since the Middle Ages and was the home of the Earls of Warwick until recently. We will be able to tour the Castle and its grounds, learning about its history and enjoying its architecture. A site that has played such an important part in English history. The castle interior is a great opportunity for guests to take a tour through the castle’s rich history. Our state rooms each have distinctive personalities that are a true testament to the opulence of a bygone era.  Visit each room and enjoy the style, artefacts and portraits that all tell the story of the castle’s ownership through time. The decoration of the State Rooms chronicles the castle’s history from the 16th century right up until 1978. Hidden within the lower level of the castle, The Undercroft Café offers a range of hot and cold snacks and is the perfect pit-stop during a busy day. Originally used as a cellar, and later as the servants dining hall, today you can enjoy its original medieval features, such as high-vaulted ceilings. A takeaway service is available - and you'll find sandwiches, pastries and more on the menu. The Conservatory Tea House.  Designed by landscape gardener Robert Marnock, the Peacock Garden is aptly named after its feathered residents and boasts sculptured topiary, manicured hedges, flourishing flower beds and a focal-point fountain. It's here that you'll find the original Conservatory, constructed in 1786 by local mason, William Eborall. Pop inside and pick up a light lunch, cream tea or hot drink, to enjoy whilst you wander around this stunning part of the castle estate. Time for lunch before we depart early afternoon and make our way back to Sussex.  Having made a comfort stop we expect to be back in the Maresfield area by approximately by 18.00.