Elizabethan Garden Re-creation at Kenilworth Castle
Work on the re-creation of the stunning Elizabethan garden at Kenilworth Castle will take place throughout 2008. The recreated garden will be as close to the original as possible, based on archaeological excavations carried out in 2005 – 6, historical research and contemporary descriptions made by Robert Laneham, an eye-witness to the visit made to Kenilworth by Queen Elizabeth I in July 1575.
The first stage of the work will involve the formation of the terrace, which ran along the north face of the Norman Keep and the layout of the paths which will divide the garden into four quarters. Next will follow the construction of the great arbours at either end of the terrace; the aviary (30 foot long by 14 foot wide and 20 foot high) against the curtain wall and obelisks at the centre of the formal garden beds.
The first phase of planting in the formal ‘knot’ garden beds begins in spring 2008, with the remaining planting of hedges and fruit trees in the autumn and winter. The white marble fountain, comprising of an eight-sided basin surmounted by two great standing figures or ‘Atlants’, is being carved and will be installed in spring 2009. The birds will be introduced into the aviary at the same time.
Previews of the garden will be available during 2008 prior to the formal opening in 2009 when visitors will be able to enjoy the garden that delighted Elizabeth 1 over 400 years ago.
If you cannot wait that long then why not join in one of our guided tours which chart the progress of work on the site and include a presentation on the re-creation of this magnificent garden. Tours will take place every Friday from 11th January 2008 at 2pm and 3pm and will last approximately 45 minutes.
If you would like to support the project please telephone Alexandra Gow-Smith on 020 7973 3538 or email her at kenilworthgarden@english-heritage.org.uk
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