Nearby must-sees for Kenilworth Castle events

Located in Warwickshire are the grand remains of Kenilworth Castle and its Elizabethan Gardens. Kenilworth is the biggest castle ruin in England and parts of the structure date back to the 12th century. The castle is probably most famous for being the dwelling of Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester and love of Queen Elizabeth I. During the 16th century, the castle hosted the queen and her entourage on several occasions. Nowadays there are a number of Kenilworth Castle events held annually which provide the opportunity to check out some must-see sites during your visit.

Explore the Elizabethan Garden

The Elizabethan Garden is a spectacular sight to be seen. It has been recreated to reflect the garden that Dudley had created for Queen Elizabeth I. The garden encompasses a number of attractions in addition to the variety of plants, including an aviary, arbours and a fountain centrepiece.

Leicester’s Gatehouse

Constructed in 1571, the Gatehouse is home to an interactive exhibition that provides information on the queen’s visits and her relationship with Dudley as well as paintings of the queen and an original tapestry commissioned by the earl. Compare your bedroom with Elizabethan sleeping quarters in the Elizabethan Bedroom before exploring the Drawing Room and Oak Room with its impressive fireplace.

Spooky encounters, fabulous falcons and plenty of family fun

A variety of different events are held at the castle throughout the year. These events cater to both adults and children so you’re sure to be regally entertained during your visit. The castle hosts a selection of ghost tours around the Halloween period. Creep through the castle and gatehouse during the evening along with dark tales. Then enjoy a warming mug of soup to chase away the chills that run down your back. Tickets are £15 with a minimum age requirement of 16.

Alternatively enjoy a superbly spooky family sleepover which involves a family tour, a tasty evening meal and a twilight walk complete with scary stories in the gatehouse. You will spend the night in the castle and, provided nothing has got you during the night and you wake up in the morning, you can enjoy some breakfast before you leave. The minimum age requirement is 8 years old, with children’s tickets costing £70 (age 5 to 15), adult tickets costing £85 or a family ticket for £240.

If you fancy stepping back in time with some feathered friends, festive falconry events are also hosted at the castle. You will discover the roles of the royal falconers and hawkers as well as how birds were trained to catch certain animals for the royal table. Adult tickets are £9 and children’s tickets are £5.40.

Other adventure-packed activities for children include training to be a knight or princess and participating in sieges. There are activity and puzzle packs as well as children’s audio tours to keep kids entertained when they visit the castle.

Other nearby attractions

Kenilworth offers many other attractions in addition to the castle and garden. There are four nature reserves nearby that offer pretty walking routes. The hamlet of Little Virginia provides the opportunity to see cottages from the 17th century. Kenilworth’s High Street offers picturesque architecture and a variety of shops, while the medieval house Stoneleigh Abbey is a lovely example of wonderful architecture dating from the 12th century.

Easy to reach for an educational and exciting day out

Kenilworth Castle can be reached via a free shuttle service that departs from the Kenilworth clock tower every 10 to 15 minutes. There is also a car park at the castle where a parking charge applies but this fee is refunded on admission (except on Bank Holiday weekends and during special events). Kenilworth Castle is a great destination for anyone visiting Warwickshire. Offering a diverse range of attractions and activities, Kenilworth is a wonderful day out for both children and adults and provides an opportunity to learn some interesting facts about the past.