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Kenilworth has existed since at least the time of the Domesday Book which refers to Kenilworth as Chinewrde, a small village in a clearing in the Forest of Arden.
Events for 2009
See the Kenilworth Town Council website for a more detailed list of events in Kenilworth.
Kenilworth Castle
In centuries gone by Kenilworth was truly at the centre of power and politics due to the dominance of Kenilworth Castle. It is believed that one of the first English Parliaments was held here.
The castle was constructed soon after the Norman conquest of 1066, and throughout history passed hands through many of the Kings of England. King John created the Great Mere, an enormous man-made lake that helped fortify the castle, and later Henry V built an isolated pleasure house known as the Pleasaunce on the far side.
During the English Civil war in 1649, Kenilworth Castle was destroyed and the great mere drained away by Oliver Cromwell's forces to ensure that it could not be used as a defensive fortress again.
Now cared for by English Heritage, it is regarded as the largest and finest ruined castle in England. It is open to visitors throughout the year and hosts a number of concerts and fireworks events.
The best way to enjoy the castle is through the Kenilworth Castle Millenium Trail. This pleasant walk meanders around the castle and surrounding countryside and is the best way to take in this scenic part of the world.
Attractions and places to visit
Although Kenilworth is best known for the ruins of Kenilworth Castle, other significant local landmarks include Kenilworth Clock, St Nicholas Church and Abbey Fields.
Kenilworth town is essentially split into two areas; the old and new parts of the town separated by Abbey Fields park. Old Kenilworth features picturesque twisting lanes and thatched cottages while the new part of Kenilworth has a lively night-life with a number of top quality restaurants and theatres.
Outside of Kenilworth to the west, mid-way to Lapworth, sits the grand stately homes of Baddesley Clinton and Wroxall Abbey. Long associated with Roman Catholic families, Baddesley Clinton has 3 priest holes and during the Elizabethan era was a haven for persecuted Catholics. It also has close associations with the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
Visit the grand state rooms of Stoneleigh Abbey too, near the town.
Full list of Attractions
For full details of attractions in and around Kenilworth see our Attractions Database that lists what to see and do in Warwick District.
Enjoywarwickshire.com Gold Offers
Please also see our Attractions Database for full details on what Gold Offers are available in and around Kenilworth.
Nearby locations
Other nearby picturesque villages and hamlets include Stareton, Leek Wootton and Stoneleigh, home of the Royal Show at Stoneleigh Park (the old National Agricultural Centre). The city of Coventry lies just north of the town.
Tourist Information
The local Tourist Information centre in Kenilworth is located at:
Kenilworth Library
11 Smalley Place
Kenilworth
Warwickshire
CV8 1QG
Tel: 01926 748902
Fax: 01926 748901
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Useful Links to Information on Kenilworth and organisations within Kenilworth.
www.kenilworthweb.com
History of Kenilworth
www.kenilworthonline.co.uk
www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworthcastle
www.shakespeare-country.co.uk/kenilworth
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenilworth
Kenilworth weather forecast
Google Map of Kenilworth
Local buses serving Kenilworth
National transport links to Kenilworth
Kenilworth Car park locations and fees |