Minibus Hire Bodiam Castle

For parties of up to 16 people, we offer minibus hire from Ashford or Hastings stations with a personable, professional driver who can share insights about Bodiam Castle and the landscape. 

On weekdays, you'll benefit from door-to-door transport at very reasonable rates. On weekends, our driver can take your group directly to the castle entrance, then wait nearby while you tour so you have independent exploration but a convenient return option. 

Get in touch with us and hire a minibus to Bodiam Castle with expert drivers.

With its distinctive shape and atmosphere, Bodiam Castle is instantly recognisable yet full of intriguing details. Constructed in 1385 in a rectangular design, much of the original architecture remains intact. Wander through narrow windows, along sturdy battlements and beneath towers standing sentinel at each corner. 

With a history spanning over 600 years, Bodiam Castle holds many stories. It was built under Richard II's licence by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a knight and landowner. As the Dalyngrigge family seat, it served as a residence and symbol of status until falling into disrepair by the mid-16th century. The castle changed hands several times and was frequently used as a hunting lodge by later owners. 

The structure showcases the architectural innovations of its time. The outer walls are up to 11 feet thick in places and ringed with ditches up to 20 feet deep, demonstrating formidable defensive capabilities. Inside, you'll find a grand hall, apartments and a great chamber offering insight into how this mediaeval stronghold functioned as a fortification and family home.

Highlights of Bodiam Castle

Some notable attractions within Bodiam Castle include its castle bridge spanning the wide moat, portcullis entrance and spiral stone staircase leading to apartments and battlements. Wander through sturdy barracks that once housed soldiers, admire mediaeval gardens now flourishing with flowers and get sweeping views across the surrounding countryside from atop circular towers. 

Don't miss the grand hall, a focal point that hosted feasts and gatherings in its heyday. Imaginative exhibits inside bring the past even more to life. With each discovery, you'll better understand how this romantic, carefully constructed castle upheld defences on the River Rother while accommodating an aristocratic lifestyle over 600 years ago.

Why Visit Historic Alnwick Castle?

Set amidst immense parkland, the fairytale Alnwick Castle is aptly described as "Windsor Castle of the North." This 700-year-old attraction hosted filming for the first two Harry Potter films, showcasing its stunning interiors, majestic courtyards and gorgeous formal gardens. 

Some highlights include the impressive Grand Hall, majestic great tower and intriguing places like the fictional Ollivander's wand shop brought to life. You might also encounter the resident Australian tree kangaroos! 

Additionally, the surrounding area holds many gems. The quaint town of Alnwick has independent shops and cafes, while coastlines like Bamburgh and Seahouses offer scenic backdrops. With Alnwick Castle as a stunning centrepiece, this region inspires exploration.

Admission tickets to explore the grounds of Bodiam Castle can be purchased on-site. Current prices are £9.50 for adults, £8.50 for seniors and £5.70 for children aged 5-17. Members of the National Trust receive free entry. The castle generally opens daily from 11 am until sunset between March and October and weekends only from November to February.

Combination tickets are also available, providing entry to Bodiam Castle and nearby Batemans, home to author Rudyard Kipling, for great savings. We'd happily provide transportation to incorporate historical places into your itinerary. 

Bodiam Castle Visiting Timings

To fully appreciate Bodiam Castle, we recommend allowing at least 2 hours for your visit. This provides time to wander leisurely through each of its three levels, taking in architectural details, examining exhibits, snapping photographs from viewpoints and absorbing the rich atmosphere. 

The busiest period tends to be summer weekends when later afternoon hours can become quite crowded. For a more tranquil experience, aim to visit early in the day, stopping for a café lunch afterwards. 

Remember that the last entry is 30 minutes before closing time to ensure everyone has sufficient daylight for a safe exit. Planning helps make the most of your time at this enchanting 14th-century castle.

Bodiam Castle Visiting Tips

When exploring Bodiam Castle, a few things to note: dress for changeable weather as the ruins have limited protection. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the footpaths involve steps and uneven terrain. 

Some areas may be muddy after rain. No dogs are permitted within the castle except assistance dogs. While photography is only for personal use, no tripods are permitted in doorways or stairs for safety reasons. 

Additionally, the National Trust runs guided tours from spring through autumn, offering insight from knowledgeable volunteers. You'll spot information boards placed throughout describing topics like mediaeval life. Picnics can be enjoyed in the surrounding grounds, which are also ideal for flying kites on windy days.

1. Can we bring our food for a picnic?

Picnics are welcome at Bodiam Castle. Plenty of picturesque spots are around the castle grounds where you can enjoy your provisions.

2. Is Bodiam Castle suitable for wheelchair users?

While the outer walls and parts of the ground floor are wheelchair accessible, much of the ruins involve steps or uneven surfaces that may not be suitable. Assistance dogs are permitted, but larger dogs cannot enter the castle for preservation reasons. 

3. What other attractions are near Bodiam Castle?

Within a 30-minute drive, you'll find historic Batemans, home of author Rudyard Kipling, and traditional English villages like Rolvenden. The impressive moated Sissinghurst Castle Garden is also under 30 minutes by car.