Kenilworth Castle Winter Tours
Posted: 2010-09-30
If you're wondering what you'll be doing when the weather turns chilly and the leaves fall from the trees, perhaps you'll enjoy a trip to historic Kenilworth Castle. The castle, under the care of English Heritage, has laid on some interesting sounding tours over the winter months. A press release from English Heritage gives more details ...
Special Themed Tours at Kenilworth
Tours will be taking place every Friday at 11am and 2pm from October 2010 to March 2011 (except Friday 29 October).
October - Three Generations of Traitors? The Dudleys and Kenilworth
In October find out about the Dudley family, previous residents of the castle. Despite being close to royalty, several family members were convicted of treason and executed. Find out why on a walk through the site and see the impact they had on the castle.
November - Literary Kenilworth
In November, discover how the castle, its inhabitants and visitors have inspired works of literature for centuries. From the 16th up to the 20th century, find out how historical characters and events from the castle’s history have been portrayed through letters, poetry, opera librettos and novels on a fascinating walk around the site.
December - Simon de Montfort and the 1266 siege
Rebellion, deceit, excommunications, night attacks and several men called Simon de Montfort: the December tours tell the tale of one of the castle’s most exciting moments in history, the 1266 siege. One of the longest sieges in English military history, find out about the causes, the siege itself and the outcomes on the site of this great event.
January - John of Gaunt: The Passion and the Power
In January, discover how John of Gaunt, son of Edward III and one of the most powerful men of his time turned the Norman castle into a grand medieval palace. The tour will also explore the history of this charismatic and influential character, including his notorious liaison and subsequent marriage to Katherine Swynford, which scandalized his contemporaries.
February - Hawkesworth: Destroyer or Preserver?
As the man in charge of the partial destruction of Kenilworth after the Civil War, Colonel Joseph Hawkesworth is not often remembered with much fondness. During the February tours, see the damage that was caused and discover the reasons why his reputation was tarnished. Then explore the castle that remains today, and consider if another side of Hawkesworth’s role has been forgotten – that of preserver of a Tudor palace.
March - The Bits you Missed, Toilets and All!
With so much to explore at Kenilworth, we would not be surprised if you feel a bit overwhelmed by all the information on offer during your visit. But fear not! The March tours will highlight features of the castle that many visitors miss, including some of our historic toilets. Enjoy quirky stories about the site, and come away with a new and unique perspective on this beautiful castle.
Please note that some tours may feature adult themes.
To find out more about visiting Kenilworth Castle & Elizabethan Garden, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth.
Resources:
English Heritage official Kenilworth Castle website
Our article on Kenilworth Castle
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