Is Kenilworth Castle your perfect marquee venue?
Now boasting a stunning recreated Elizabethan garden!
The ancient walls of Kenilworth Castle – said to be the most beautiful castle ruin in the land – can host civil ceremonies, dinners and drinks receptions for up to 300 guests.
Occasions – including civil wedding ceremonies – are hosted in the lovingly restored octagonal gatehouse, built by the dashing Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester as a grand entrance for Queen Elizabeth I, when she visited in 1575.
In fine weather, drinks can be enjoyed in a pretty parterre garden, lined with topiary and filled with flowers.
Built in the 13th century, it has hosted royalty through the ages, including Edward II, Henry III and Henry V – who moved in fresh from victory over the French at the Battle of Agincourt.
But it is most associated with Queen Elizabeth I, who stayed in 1575 when she was famously romanced by the dashing Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester.
With spectacular pageantry, plays, music and dancing, Dudley lavishly wooed the ‘Virgin Queen’ within the walls and extensive grounds of Kenilworth Castle – but marriage was tragically never to be…
Five centuries on, the Gatehouse he built as a grand entrance for his Queen, has been newly restored by English Heritage and is now available for modern-day lovers to hire for weddings and receptions.
