Our journey begins with the impressive Corfe Castle, one of the most picturesque and mysterious castles in all of England. Situated on a hill in the heart of the Purbeck Peninsula, Corfe Castle dominates the surrounding area, offering breathtaking views of the green Dorset hills.

The history of Corfe Castle dates back to the 11th century, when William the Conqueror ordered the first stone fortification to be erected at this strategic location. Over the centuries, the castle has witnessed many turbulent events, including sieges, betrayals and royal intrigues. Today, although in ruins, Corfe Castle still impresses with its monumentality and mysterious atmosphere.

There are many activities for families visiting Corfe Castle. Children can take on the role of medieval knights by taking part in fencing or archery workshops (available during the summer season, be sure to check the current schedule on the castle's website). Little explorers will be delighted to explore the mysterious nooks and crannies of the ruins, while parents will appreciate the wealth of historical information available on site.

What sets Corfe Castle apart from other attractions:

• Spectacular 11th century ruins
• Interactive workshops for children (seasonal)
• Picturesque views of the surrounding area
• Rich history rich in legends and stories

Practical information:

• Ticket prices: moderate (current prices available on the National Trust website)
• Parking: available nearby, chargeable
• Accessibility: partially adapted for people with limited mobility
• Opening hours: varies seasonally, worth checking before visiting

Corfe Castle is a place that is sure to fire the imagination of children and adults alike. Walking around the stone walls, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient battles and court intrigues. It's the perfect place to begin your adventure into the history of medieval Dorset.

The next stop on our medieval tour is Kingston Lacy, a magnificent estate that, although in its current form it dates from the 17th century, has its roots deep in the Middle Ages. It's a place where history elegantly blends with luxury, offering visitors a unique time travel experience.

Kingston Lacy is not only an impressive building, but also features extensive landscaped parkland and gardens that provide the perfect backdrop for family recreation and education. While the building itself is not a typical medieval castle, its interiors hide many treasures from the era, including a collection of medieval manuscripts and artwork.

There are a number of activities for families visiting Kingston Lacy:

• Theme walks through the gardens, where you can learn about the history of the estate and its inhabitants
• Demonstrations of daily life in a medieval manor house (seasonal)
• Calligraphy and manuscript illumination workshops for children (check availability on the website)
• Picnics in the picturesque landscaped park

What sets Kingston Lacy apart:

• Extensive collection of medieval art and artifacts
• Extensive gardens and park ideal for family strolls
• Educational children's programs that combine fun with learning about history

Practical information:

• Ticket prices: moderate (current prices on the National Trust website)
• Parking: free for visitors
• Accessibility: most attractions accessible to people with limited mobility
• Opening hours: change seasonally, it is recommended to check before visiting

Kingston Lacy offers a slightly different perspective on medieval life than a typical fortified castle. It's a place where you can experience the luxury and culture of medieval aristocracy. Walking through the richly decorated chambers and admiring the priceless works of art can make you feel like a real medieval lord or lady.

It is worth noting the contrast between Kingston Lacy and Corfe Castle. While Corfe represents the military and defensive aspect of medieval architecture, Kingston Lacy focuses on the cultural and artistic heritage of the era. This diversity allows for a fuller understanding of the complexity of medieval society and culture.

The last, but no less fascinating stop on our medieval Dorset tour is Lulworth Castle. This 17th-century castle, while not directly from the Middle Ages, is a place where history comes alive through numerous events and historical reenactments.

Lulworth Castle is famous for its knightly tournaments and medieval festivals, which take visitors straight into the heart of the age of knights and ladies of the court. It's the perfect place for families who want to experience the atmosphere of medieval life in an interactive and exciting way.

What Lulworth Castle offers:

• Regular demonstrations of knightly battles and tournaments (check the calendar of events on the official website)
• Medieval craft workshops for children and adults
• Opportunities to try on medieval costumes and armor
• Tastings of food prepared according to medieval recipes

Lulworth Castle highlights:

• A rich program of historical events
• Interactive experiences for the whole family
• Picturesque location overlooking the Dorset coastline

Practical information:

• Ticket prices: moderate, with discounts for families (see the castle website for current prices)
• Parking: available on site, chargeable
• Accessibility: most attractions suitable for people with limited mobility
• Opening hours: dependent on season and events, it is recommended to check in advance

Lulworth Castle offers the most interactive and vivid medieval experience of any of the sites described. This is where history really comes alive, and visitors can not only watch, but actively participate in the life of a medieval castle.

To sum up our tour of medieval Dorset, it's worth noting the variety of experiences the described sites offer:

• Corfe Castle lets you feel the spirit of medieval fortifications and legends.
• Kingston Lacy takes us into the world of culture and art of the medieval aristocracy.
• Lulworth Castle allows you to actively participate in historical reenactments and medieval daily life.

This diversity makes Dorset an ideal destination for a family trip back in time, offering something for everyone - from war history buffs to court culture enthusiasts. Whether your children dream of becoming knights or princesses, they will find inspiration and unforgettable adventures in Dorset that will ignite their passion for history for years to come.