From welcoming an impressive cast of English royalty to undergoing years of painstaking restoration work, the spectacular castles of Kenilworth and Bolsover have hundreds of fascinating stories to tell. Hear some of the most intriguing - both past and present - on two special tours and lunches with our Chief Executive and Curatorial Director.
A Grand Restoration Project
A vast medieval fortress which became an Elizabethan palace, Kenilworth Castle is the famous setting for the royal romance between Queen Elizabeth I and her favourite, Robert Dudley. Dudley lavished fortunes on the castle, intent on impressing the queen on her many visits. Perhaps the most intriguing of his additions was a fabulous garden, with 18-foot high fountain and bejewelled aviary. However, after the castle fell into decline, the garden was lost to the world.
After 400 years, English Heritage has recreated this grand Elizabethan Garden, using historical and archaeological evidence. Hear the story of the castle, garden, its famous residents and visitors and our recent research work on an exclusive guided tour on Thursday 19 January with Chief Executive Dr Simon Thurley and Curatorial Director Dr Anna Keay.
After the tour, enjoy a delicious two course lunch in the historic surroundings of Leicester's Gatehouse, built by Dudley as part of his many developments to impress Elizabeth I on her visits in the 16th century. The menu includes Beef Bourguignon served with thyme roasted root vegetable and creamy cheddar mash, danish pastries and sticky toffee pudding, along with tea or coffee - perfect for a winter's day!
A Fabulous 17th Century Party Palace
The imposing medieval fortress of Bolsover was bought by Sir Charles Cavendish in 1612, but - intriguingly - not for defence purposes. Charles set about transforming the castle into a party palace, designed solely for pleasure and extravagant display.
On an exclusive tour on Wednesday 25 January, hear about the castle's evolution from medieval fortress to the ultimate party mansion. Join our Chief Executive for a tour of the 'Little Castle', with its richly coloured murals depicting heavenly - and sometimes erotic - delights.
The tour finishes with a delicious two course seated lunch.
Book Your Tickets
Both events are exclusive to English Heritage members. Tickets for both tours are priced at £70 each, which includes a two course seated lunch. To book tickets, phone our dedicated Ticket Sales Team on 0870 333 1183. Please note that booking is essential as places are limited.
To become a member of English Heritage, visit our membership page.
