Kenilworth Castle might sit in ruins, but its unique role in English history shouldn’t be overlooked. From the longest siege in medieval England to the removal of Edward II from the throne and the French insult of gifting tennis balls to Henry V (a domino moment that led to the Battle of Agincourt), the 900-year-old castle has seen it all.
Less than an hour from Birmingham, it’s probably most famous under the ownership of Elizabeth I’s childhood friend, Robert Dudley. He spent a fortune transforming the castle to impress the queen, who spent a remarkable 19 days at Kenilworth in July 1575. While not quite as impressive today, it’s still worth visiting!
What is there to see and do at Kenilworth Castle?
Climb the full height of the queen’s apartments for an unforgettable view over Kenilworth Castle and the surrounding countryside; admire the mighty Norman keep at the heart of the castle; and take in John of Gaunt’s Great Hall—once the finest of its kind and at the cutting edge of 14th-century architectural design.
The crown jewel of land has to be the Elizabethan garden at Kenilworth Castle. Beautifully recreated, it’s as close to walking her majesty’s footsteps as we may ever come—with its Renaissance aviary, opulent flower beds, and grand fountain carved from Carrara marble. History buffs and garden lovers alike can enjoy this slice of history.
Elsewhere, delve deeper into the castle’s past with several family-friendly, interactive exhibitions, including seeing and touching a huge trebuchet ball, while children can even dress up in the Tudor stables. After, swing by the Tearoom to unwind with tea and cake”
How do I get there?
It should take about 40 minutes to drive to Kenilworth Castle. Take the M6 towards Coventry, and turn off onto the A446 after Chelmsley Wood, before switching to the A452 in Balsall Common and following to Kenilworth. Alternatively, you can get a train from Birmingham New Street to Coventry, where you can change for Kenilworth, although it’s still a 25-minute walk to the castle.
🎟️ Get your tickets now to Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden in Kenilworth here.