Cultured Kenilworth
Once England's largest fort, Kenilworth Castle is an impressive Norman ruin that was once the home of Elizabeth I's great love, Robert Dudley. In 1575 Dudley created an ornate palace in the queen's honour and its Elizabethan Gardens have been restored to their former grandeur and beauty.
Kenilworth is blessed with an abundance of walks. Whether you take a stroll among its four nature reserves, the ancient woodland of Crackley Woods, or Abbey Fields, set in the valley of Finham Brook, you'll find plenty to see and admire in the town.
A five mile car trip east takes you to the grounds of Stoneleigh Abbey, a superb example of a Jacobean country house that has been visited by King Charles I, Queen Victoria and Jane Austen, among others. You'll have the opportunity to tour the West Wing of the house and wander around the beautifully landscaped gardens and the splendid surrounding countryside.
Restaurants, cafés and pubs
There's a wonderful choice of eateries in Kenilworth encompassing a wide range of cuisine from Indian, Chinese and Thai to Italian and French, and there are traditional taverns offering great pub fare.
For a spicy treat from the East, Le Raj Spice prides itself on its friendly, attentive service and imaginative dishes which use no artificial colours, stock or food additives.
A popular little café, the Modern Kitchen, lives up to its name with its contemporary trappings. Fresh coffee and cakes are sold and there is a lunchtime menu.
The Rocking Horse Coffee Shop has been established for over a quarter of a century and offers tea, coffee, breakfast and an all-day menu and is known for its genial service
Michelin-starred gastropub, The Cross, has been renovated to reveal its origins as a 19th century tavern. Locals and visitors have praised its food, diligent staff and relaxed atmosphere.
Shopping in and around Kenilworth
The town's High Street is dotted with independent stores, craft shops and well known retailers. Each Thursday you'll find the thriving Kenilworth Market at the front of Abbey End.
A pleasant walk from the High Street through 70 acre Abbey Fields will take you to the Talisman shopping centre where you'll find more well known retailers.
