Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden

Kenilworth Castle was given to the town of Kenilworth itself in 1958 and has been managed by English Heritage since 1984. Around 10 years ago the gardens were restored to the cost of around £2 million. There has been some criticism surrounding this but I am very glad that they did it. The gardens are stunning and I have never seen anything like it before at what is essentially a ruined castle.

What can you do at Kenilworth Castle?

There are a number of ruins which can be explored today and one completely more modern castle (the gatehouse) with rooms. Kenilworth has a long history of connections to royalty and other famous names. Most notable are the castle’s connections to Queen Elizabeth I who is commemorated and mentioned quite a few times around the castle and grounds.

They have a map which is worth taking around with you, kids also get a child-friendly map with ‘quests’. During the school holidays, they often run events, in the church ruins. Although most of the castle is in ruins they have installed lots of new staircases so that you can explore. You’ll be surprised at how high you can climb and how much you can look around.

The Elizabethan Gardens are stunning and there are some lovely statues, plants and even a small aviary. Leicester’s Gatehouse is the still-intact part of Kenilworth Castle. There are a few reconstructed rooms that you can look around which is how it looked in 1930 when the final person to live there, the caretaker, moved out.

BOOK Your Tickets

Important Information Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe in the Tudor Stable. You are welcome to picnic outside.

What are the main things to do?

Extensive castle ruins that you can explore and look around, gorgeous Elizabethan gardens and an intact smaller castle with rooms and exhibitions. There are toilets, a shop and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

Free, if you are a member of English Heritage
An adult peak standard ticket is £16.30 and £10 for a child aged 5-17. Under 5’s are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or online discount.

Is there parking?

All-day parking is charged which can be refunded if you are a member.

When are they open?

Kenilworth Castle is open for most of the summer. However, in the winter it is only open at weekends and some weeks thereafter it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. For up-to-date opening times and dates please follow this link.