A Dog Friendly Visit to Kenilworth Castle
Date of Visit: 20.10.2022
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Visiting Kenilworth Castle
Kenilworth Castle is located to the north-west of the town of Kenilworth. It takes around 10-minutes to walk from the centre of the town, or about 20-minutes to walk from the railway station. There is a car park available on the site (which is free for English Heritage members (join here). If you are a member of English Heritage, entry to the site of Kenilworth Castle is free. If not, you will have to pay the entry fee to gain access (see prices here). Be sure to pick up a site map from the entry point. There is a cafe available for refreshments, along with a gift shop. There are public toilet facilities available.
Dog Friendly
Dogs can go pretty much everywhere on the site, but must be kept on a lead at all times. Dogs can explore the ruins and have a break on the benches outside of the cafe. We noticed dog water bowls outside the gift shop and museum too. The English Heritage staff dotted around the site were helpful and gave some welcome attention to our dog.
A Brief Bit of History
Kenilworth Castle was built 50 years after the Norman Conquest. It has been home to royalty and at least 4 kings have lived there. In 1266, Kenilworth Castle was the site of the six-month long Siege of Kenilworth, and was the base for Lancastrian forces during the Wars of the Roses. In the 1120s, the Castle was built by the Normans. During the 13th century, it was significantly enlarged by King John. In the late 14th century, John of Gaunt made a bug investment, to alter the Castle from a medieval fortress into a comfortable palace. Sadly, in 1649 the Castle was partially destroyed during the English Civil War and following this, gradully fell into ruin.
The Surrounding Area
Kenilworth is a market town in Warwickshire, close to Coventry, Warwick and Leamington Spa. The town centre holds a range of shops, both independent and bigger names. Whilst in the area, the main things to see are the Abbey ruins, the Castle and the surrounding parkland areas - perfect for walking your dog! Directly outside of the Castle, you can walk around the perimeter of it for free. Simply follow the footpath around the outside of the site, which will provide you with some great views of the castle.
