Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth Castle during the Norman period and our campsite used for our displays.

 

 

English Heritage's Kenilworth Castle has been intimately linked with some of the most important names in English history. Today, with its Tudor gardens, its impressive Norman 'keep' and John of Gaunt's Great Hall, it is the largest castle ruin in England. 

The first castle at Kenilworth was built 50 years after the Norman conquest. Henry II took over the castle 50 years later, to counter an attack from his son's rebel army. It was then radically extended by King John, who also transformed the mere (great lake) into one of its most glorious features. 

Kenilworth stayed in royal hands until 1253, when it was given to Simon de Montfort by Henry III. The de Montforts turned against the Crown in the Barons' War in 1266, and the castle was besieged. Well-stocked with food, it managed to hold out for almost nine months before disease took its toll and surrender came. 

Later, Edward II was briefly imprisoned here, before being taken to Berkeley Castle and hideously murdered in 1326. Henry V retired here after winning the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. He built himself a banqueting house, The Pleasaunce, on the other side of the lake. 

The castle took centre stage again in the 16th century, when it was acquired by the Dudley family. John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland and effectively ruler of England in the reign of the boy-king Edward VI, was executed for trying to place his daughter-in-law, Lady Jane Grey, on the throne in 1553. His son, Robert, was a great favourite of Elizabeth I. Kenilworth was given back to him and he transformed it into a place fit for her to visit. 

Tales woven by Sir Walter Scott, in his novel Kenilworth (1821), around Dudley, his wife (who died in mysterious circumstances) and the Virgin Queen still give extra glamour to the castle. 

Kenilworth never saw such glories again. After the Civil War it was partially demolished by Parliamentary troops. Over the years it was allowed to fall further into ruin, and the lake drained away. The castle was saved for the nation in 1938. It remains a powerful reminder of great men, their glories, pleasures and rebellions, and offers glorious views over a countryside now at peace.