Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

English Heritage
Kenilworth Castle was founded in the 12th century, and expanded in Tudor times to a semi-royal palace. In 1649 it was partly destroyed by the Parliamentary forces to prevent it being used again as a fortress. It was defended by a marsh and lake outside the wall of the great outer bailey.
The inner court contains the old keep, John O’Gaunt’s hall, and Leicester’s Tudor building. Leicester’s Tudor gatehouse (recently restored and opened) stands to the north of the outer bailey. An Elizabethan knot garden has also been recreated in this area.
The castle, though much ruined, is one of the most impressive of the English castles, and there is plenty for the visitor to see. It is also a regular venue for historical re-enactments. The interior of the Gatehouse is worth seeing, as is the new Knot Garden.
When I visited, Leicester’s Building was out of bounds and full of scaffolding – new viewing platforms are promised for the summer.
An audio tour is available.

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