- Children's tickets reduced from 25 June to 1 September 2026 as part of the government's summer initiative
- Blue Peter badge holders aged 5–15 receive free general admission with a valid badge ID and a paying adult.
- Some areas of the castle may be temporarily closed while essential works are carried out
Tamworth Borough Council is excited to announce that families can enjoy a historic day out at Tamworth Castle for less this summer, with discounted children’s admission tickets available as part of the government’s Great British Summer Savings initiative.
From 25 June to 1 September 2026, children’s admission (aged 2–15 years) is reduced from £9.50 to £8.30, helping families make the most of the summer holidays while exploring one of the country’s best-preserved Norman castles.
The discounted admission is part of the government’s VAT summer incentive, which includes a temporary reduction of VAT from 20% to 5% on children’s tickets for attractions, cinemas and theatres, as well as children’s meals. The initiative aims to help families enjoy more affordable days out during the summer months.
In addition, children aged 5 – 15 years in England will be able to travel free on local bus services throughout August, making it easier and more affordable for families to get out and about and enjoy attractions such as Tamworth Castle.
Visitors can step back in time and discover more than 1,000 years of history through fascinating exhibitions, interactive displays and stories from the castle’s past.
Tamworth Castle is also an official Blue Peter badge venue since January 2026.
This prestigious status means that children aged 5–15 who have earned a Blue Peter badge can visit the castle for free when they present a valid Blue Peter badge ID card and are accompanied by an adult. This offer applies to general admission only and does not include special ticketed events.
Blue Peter badge venues are carefully selected based on the educational and enriching experiences they provide. Tamworth Castle joins more than 200 attractions across the UK that offer free entry to Blue Peter badge holders, reflecting its ongoing commitment to inspiring curiosity, learning and a sense of local pride among young visitors.
Councillor Lewis Smith, portfolio holder for people services, engagement, leisure and heritage for Tamworth Borough Council said "This summer is a fantastic opportunity for families to discover Tamworth Castle, with reduced children’s admission making a visit even more affordable.
“We’re also incredibly proud that Tamworth Castle is also an official Blue Peter badge venue. This wonderful achievement reflects the exciting, educational experiences we offer to young visitors. We hope even more children and families will be inspired to explore our history and discover what makes our castle such a special place.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors throughout the summer and sharing the stories of this remarkable landmark."
Visitors should note that some rooms or areas of the castle may be temporarily inaccessible during their visit while essential conservation work takes place as part of the ‘From the Motte to the Keep’ restoration project.
Tamworth Borough Council has been awarded £1,716,238 from the Arts Council England Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND) to support urgent repairs throughout the castle.
Every effort is being made to minimise disruption, some areas may need to close temporarily while the works are completed. The council thanks visitors for their patience and understanding as these important improvements take place to preserve Tamworth Castle for future generations.
Summer admission prices (25 June – 1 September 2026)
- Adult (16+): £11.95
- Child (2–15 years): £8.30 (reduced from £9.50)
- Blue Peter badge holders (5–15 years): Free (general admission only, valid Blue Peter badge ID card required and must be accompanied by an adult)
- Child under 2: Free
- Concessions (65+ / students): £10.95
- Family ticket (up to five people, one must be a child): £41.45 (reduced from £47.50)
- Carers (valid ID required): Free
More details about Tamworth Castle, events and opening times: www.tamworthcastle.co.uk.
For more information on how to apply for a Blue Peter badge and to check the full terms and conditions, please visit the Blue Peter website: Blue Peter Attractions | Free Entry with a Blue Peter badge - CBBC - BBC.
Notes:
The essential MEND project, with a total value of £1,906,933, will help secure the future of the scheduled monument and Grade I listed building, while protecting the accredited museum collections housed within.
The works will focus on five key areas, including the dining room and stair tower, the servants’ chamber bay window, walkway retaining walls and below-ground drainage across the south and north wings, motte and castle perimeter.
The repairs include improvements to historic masonry, timber structures, plasterwork, leaded light windows, cast iron rainwater goods, lead gutters and roofs, alongside drainage works and minor accessibility improvements.
Please see our council news page for updates on the project work: News and Media | Tamworth Borough Council