Warwickshire - Castles
Kenilworth 
| Kenilworth is reputedly the largest castle ruins in England. The
castle's history dates back to circa 1115, and it features prominently throughout English
history.
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| In 1266 the castle was besieged, and
managed to hold out for 9 months.
Later, in 1415 Henry V retired here
after winning the battle of Agincourt.
In the 16th century it was owned by the Dudley
family, Robert Dudley was reputedly the lover of Elizabeth I.
After the civil war it was partially demolished by parliamentary troops, and afterwards
fell into further ruin. |
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Warwick
The earliest defences known to have been on this site were in 914, when Ethelfleda,
daughter of Alfred the Great, built fortifications here to defend the town of Warwick from
Danish invaders. However, it was William the Conqueror who built the first Castle
here, which was a motte and bailey in 1068.
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| Though still in noble families ownership until 1978 the castle had it's
heyday in the 15th century. Much building work was carried out between the 14th and
15th century including the curtain walls, Guy's and Caesar's Towers. During the Wars of
the Roses, in the late 15th century, the castle was held by Richard Neville, the Earl of
Warwick. He became known as Kingmaker due to his role in the reigns
of Henry VI and Edward IV, visit a snapshot in time in the exhibition as Warwick prepares
for the battle of Barnet in 1471. |
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If you visit Warwick castle do take a stroll through the town, it's very
picturesque, and has much to recommend it. My main advise though, is get there early!
Warwick castle is very popular, and on many tour routes. Visit the dungeons
and exhibitions before the queues form, then climb the towers, and walk the ramparts
later.
Don't forget to walk the grounds, and don't go untill you've visited the Ghost
Tower... |
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