Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kryal Castle Ballarat with kids. This captivating medieval attraction nestled in Ballarat was first established in the early 1970s, and has been captivating guests of all ages with its array of interactive activities, fascinating demonstrations, and captivating displays ever since.
Prepare to be awe-struck as knights clash in exhilarating live jousting tournaments within the Castle Arena, showcasing the ultimate test of skill and bravery. Younger visitors can fulfil their dreams of knighthood by participating in engaging sword fights and other thrilling activities.
Explore Kryal Castle’s intriguing features, including a challenging maze where you can race against friends, and the Dragon’s Labyrinth, an immersive journey through lavishly themed passageways.
For those with a taste for the macabre, the Torture Dungeon offers a chilling insight into the dark history of punishment and interrogation methods.
With its rich history and unforgettable experiences, Kryal Castle guarantees an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
Make sure you also visit Sovereign Hill when you are in Ballarat
A Family Adventure to Kryal Castle
Table of Contents
Kryal Castle History
Back in my uni days, Kryal Castle was known for its rave parties before it closed down. A massive renovation and the site has reopened its doors with a complete restyling.
The Kyral Castle story begins with its visionary builder, Keith Ryall, a man who had a passion for the medieval era and a dream of creating his very own castle. Born in 1942, Keith Ryall made a fortune selling body armour and used a loan of $75,000 from the Victorian Development Corporation to bring his vision to life.
Construction of the castle commenced in 1972, and it opened its doors to the public in 1974. For decades, Kryal Castle enchanted visitors with its medieval-themed attractions and immersive experiences.
In January 2011, the castle was sold to Jay Finch and Wendy Alexander, who intended to transform it into a hotel and theme park. However, due to financial difficulties, ownership of the property reverted to Keith Ryall in August 2011. In January 2012, Castle Tourism & Entertainment Pty Ltd took over ownership of Kryal Castle, leading to a significant renovation and upgrade. The castle reopened in 2013 as a versatile venue, offering both daytime and nighttime tourism experiences.
Since its redevelopment, Kryal Castle has garnered recognition and accolades within the tourism industry. It was awarded the Best New Tourism Development Award at the 2013 Victorian Tourism Awards and received a gold award at the 2015 RACV Victorian Tourism Awards. The castle’s unique charm and engaging attractions have made it a finalist in the Tourist Attractions category at the 2015 QANTAS Australian Tourism Awards.
In 2015, Keith Ryall, the visionary behind the castle, passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to enchant visitors. His funeral was held at Kryal Castle, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to bringing his childhood dream to fruition.
Today, Kryal Castle stands as a testament to Keith Ryall’s unwavering passion and the dedication of those who have carried on his legacy. With its medieval sport of jousting, immersive attractions, and four-star accommodations, the castle continues to captivate visitors from near and far. In 2022, it was even nominated for the prestigious Best Victorian Tourism Attraction award, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination.
Exploring Kryal Castle with Kids
Kryal Castle offers a diverse range of experiences, from magical wizardry to interactive animal encounters, exciting challenges, and opportunities to witness thrilling jousting competitions. There’s something for every child to enjoy and create unforgettable memories in the realm of medieval adventure.
Note: It’s important to note that the activities and age recommendations may vary, so it’s advisable to check the specific details and guidelines provided by Kryal Castle for each attraction.
Knight Training
Let your little ones embrace their inner knight by participating in the Knight Training program. Under the guidance of experienced Castle Knights, children can learn the art of sword fighting, master the skills of chivalry, and engage in thrilling mock battles. It’s an interactive experience that will transport them to the world of medieval knights.
Archery Lessons
Channel their inner Robin Hood as kids take aim and try their hand at archery. Expert instructors will teach them proper techniques and safety measures, ensuring a fun and educational experience. From practicing their aim to hitting bullseyes, this activity will ignite their sense of adventure and develop their focus and coordination.
Dragon’s Labyrinth Quest
Embark on an exciting quest through the Dragon’s Labyrinth. Equipped with a map and a sense of exploration, children can navigate through dimly lit passageways, solve puzzles, and encounter stunning special effects that bring medieval tales to life. It’s an immersive adventure that will challenge their problem-solving skills and spark their imagination.
Castle Arena Games
Step into the Castle Arena and let your kids take centre stage as they participate in interactive games and challenges. From ring jousting to foot combat, they can test their skills and compete against friends or family members. The Castle Knights will provide guidance and encouragement, making it an unforgettable experience of medieval competition.
Dragon Encounters
Get up close and personal with magnificent creatures at the Dragon’s Lair. Children can meet and interact with friendly dragons, learning fascinating facts about these mythical beings. With the guidance of knowledgeable staff, they can even have the opportunity to touch and feed the dragons, creating lasting memories and fostering a love for fantastical creatures.
Torture Dungeon & Museum
For older children who are curious about the darker side of history, the Torture Dungeon provides a unique educational experience. Led by expert guides, kids can explore a museum of torture implements and learn about the gruesome methods used in the past. This activity offers a glimpse into the medieval justice system and sparks discussions about empathy and human rights.
Wizard’s Workroom
Unleash your child’s inner wizard at the Wizard’s Workroom. This enchanting space allows kids to dive into the world of magic and potions. They can learn the secrets of spellcasting, create their own magical concoctions, and discover the art of potion-making. With interactive displays and mystical artifacts, the Wizard’s Workroom offers a captivating experience for young aspiring wizards.
Jousting Spectacle
Witness the thrilling spectacle of live jousting at Kryal Castle. Watch as brave knights in shining armor engage in daring battles on horseback. The thundering hooves, clashing lances, and heart-pounding action will leave your kids wide-eyed with excitement. It’s an opportunity for them to witness the noble sport of jousting firsthand and cheer for their favourite knight.
Animal Pens
Let your little ones get up close and personal with friendly farm animals at the Animal Pens. They can pet and interact with gentle creatures such as goats, sheep, rabbits, and more. The animal pens provide a hands-on experience where children can learn about animal care, feeding, and the importance of kindness towards animals.
The Maze
Challenge your kids to a race through the castle’s intricate maze. With twists and turns at every corner, they’ll have a blast navigating their way to the exit. It’s a test of strategy and teamwork as they compete against each other or work together to conquer the maze. Who will be the first to find their way out?
Axe Throwing
Unleash your child’s inner warrior with the thrilling activity of axe throwing. Under the guidance of trained instructors, kids can learn the proper technique of throwing axes at designated targets. With a focus on safety and skill development, this activity provides an exhilarating experience that combines accuracy, concentration, and a touch of medieval flair.
Ancient Cemetery
Explore the intriguing Cemetery at Kryal Castle, where visitors can discover the stories and history of the past. Wander through the solemn grounds and observe the tombstones that hold tales of knights, nobles, and other inhabitants of the medieval era. It’s all a little tongue-in-cheek, with many puns and funny dedications to the deceased.
Kryal Castle Opening Hours
Kryal Castle welcomes visitors to embark on an unforgettable journey into the medieval realm during its opening hours. The castle opens its gates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on set dates and the school holidays, allowing ample time for guests to explore the various attractions, engage in interactive experiences, and immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere.
It’s recommended to check the official Kryal Castle website or contact their staff for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, as they may be subject to change seasonally or for special events.
Kryal Castle Tickets
Kryal Castle offers a range of ticket options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Visitors can choose from single-day tickets for a full day of medieval adventures or opt for annual passes for unlimited access throughout the year.
Special discounted rates are available for children, seniors, and families, ensuring that everyone can experience the magic of Kryal Castle without breaking the bank. It’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and promotions.
Prebooking at the Kryal Castle online box office will provide a discount.
Kryal Castle Accommodation
Experience the perfect getaway at BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park, situated in front of the awe-inspiring walls of Kryal Castle, Australia’s only medieval castle.
Located just a short drive from Ballarat and within reach of Melbourne, this pet-friendly holiday park offers breathtaking views of the Ballarat landscape, with the added bonus of having one of the region’s most popular theme parks right at your doorstep.
Whether you’re seeking to immerse yourself in the wonders of Kryal Castle or looking for a picturesque base to explore the Greater Ballarat region, BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park has everything you need.
Take a refreshing dip in the park’s 12-meter container pool, unwind on the Sunset Deck with a refreshing cocktail, or let your children have a blast in the games room and playgrounds. Plus, enjoy discounted entry into the Kryal Castle Theme Park, ensuring endless fun for the whole family.
With a variety of modern accommodations available, including luxurious two-story loft tiny homes, cozy one-bedroom and family cabins, as well as spacious camp and caravan sites, there’s an option for every type of getaway.
If you want a medieval experience, the Castle Suites offer a four-star retreat that immerses guests in medieval luxury. Each suite is thoughtfully designed to reflect the grandeur of the era, with elegant furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can choose from a variety of suite options, including the King’s Suite, the Queen’s Suite, or the Family Suites, catering to different group sizes and preferences.
So why wait? Adventure awaits at BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park, where you can create unforgettable memories amidst the captivating medieval ambience.
There are so many more attractions within the grounds to explore from the cemetery to the round table. There is a little cafe on-site to grab hot food, but we chose to pack a light lunch for our trip.
Krayl Castle is located on a foothill of Mount Warrenheip at Leigh Creek, just north of Dunnstown and 8 km east of Ballarat.
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