Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Gardens are steeped in history, and one of the most impressive English gardens. The ruins are set in scenic parkland and the newly recreated exterior is enchanting.
Elizabethan Gardens at Kenilworth Castle
Created by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester in an attempt to woo Queen Elizabeth I, this medieval fortress in Warwickshire is an English Heritage property.
One of the highlights of Kenilworth Castle is the new series of stairs and platforms added to Leicester’s Building. You can easily climb these for a fantastic view 18 metres over the rest of the castle and the surrounding area.
Created for the sole use of Queen Elizabeth I on her visits to the castle, it was amongst the finest buildings of the day, with huge windows.
You’ll be amazed by the Elizabethan Gardens, which were lost to the world for 400 years and have now been recreated. The design is based on an eye-witness description from 1575, and delights the eye.
There’s a fantastic view of these beautiful gardens from the terrace.
Obelisks, an ancient symbol for rulership, stand at the centre of each quarter.
In the very centre of the garden, there’s a stunning fountain made from white Tuscan marble by Fairhaven and Woods. It stands over 18ft high and features Leicester’s symbol, the ragged staff.
Two figures or “Atlanths” support a sphere, from which water comes cascading down. Behind the fountain, stands the aviary – these were rare at the time and the birdsong would have added to the charm of the garden.
Today, all the birds are domesticated as it is illegal to cage wild birds in the United Kingdom.
Next to the garden, you’ll find Leicester’s Gatehouse, originally built as an entrance and converted to a house after 1650. There’s a fascinating exhibition about Robert Dudley and Queen Elizabeth I on the top floor.
The Queen never did marry him but she visited the castle many times.
Inside the stables, there’s a tearoom and an interesting exhibition on the history of the castle. There’s also plenty for children to do at Kenilworth Castle, with puzzles and activities and even a knights and princesses academy.
You’ll love your visit to Kenilworth Castle, it’s one of the best English gardens. It’s a must see if you like architecture, history or gardens, so pretty much for anyone. What is your favourite castle?
Kenilworth Castle, Castle Green, Off Castle Road, Kenilworth, Warwickshire – CV8 1NE
You might also enjoy:
- 48 Hours in the Cotswolds
- Compton Acres – Award Winning Dorset Gardens
- 6 Best Things to Do in Windsor
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Oh, it’s just so pretty! One of my husband’s best friends lives in Kenilworth and they’re always telling us to visit but we haven’t made it yet – guess I can use that as a cheeky excuse to see the castle 🙂
I hope you do make it up there, Stratford on Avon is very close by and that’s lovely too
Hi Kelly, we went in Wintertime, I’ve also got that membership card so like to get to as many as I can! Looking forward to reading the rest of your English Heritage posts
Yes even though this is partly in ruins there’s still lots to see!
What a stunning remake of the grounds and palace and all done to how it was actually presented during that time frame, amazing! Thanks for joining todays link up
Thanks Noel, the design seems really surprising and then you find out that was the actual reproduction of the original one! I’ll add a link to your blog at the end if your link up is still open.
My favorite castle is by far Versailles, of course! But this one is so lovely, I definitely want to visit it now!
Versailles is amazing too, I’m long due a return visit – used to live in Paris!
Yes I loved all the hiding places! Really like your blog name, it conjures up holidays so well
So lovely! I’d love to visit! I’ll have to add it to my list! xx
Thanks Amanda, it’s a great place to visit for a weekend break
What a gorgeous garden to spend an afternoon, followed by a lovely glass of wine at a local cafe!;-)
Sadly I missed the glass of wine at a local cafe! The stables are a good spot for that too, and would be great for picnics when the weather gets better
Thanks, definitely a good place to rack up your Fitbit steps 😉
What a scenic setting so beautiful and I love the obelisks. A lovely way to spend an afternoon. Lucy x
Thanks Lucy, the obelisks were stunning, I think they were marble
I’d love to return to Leeds Castle. Apparently there’s a plan to flood the moat at Kenilworth which would be very picturesque!
I just love your photos! I love the aviary too, such a nice feature.
Thanks Holly, that’s very kind. The aviary definitely adds some beautiful sounds to the garden
Katherine, you should definitely visit when you next come to the UK!
I had no idea that it’s illegal to cage wild birds! Looks like such a beautiful place and I have to agree, the clouds definitely add to the imposing beauty of the ruins.
Katie <3
It makes sense, but I didn’t know that either. I’d go back to the castle in Summertime to see the contrast, would be great for a picnic
It does look beautiful. Great photos, Suze. 🙂
Thanks Johanna, I definitely recommend a visit if you can