The newly-refurbished gatehouse at Kenilworth Castle is almost as busy this summer as it was during Elizabeth I's visit in 1575, according to English Heritage.
English Heritage spokeswoman Andrea Fox said: "The restored gatehouse and stables are proving a huge draw. Romantics love the last letter from Robert Dudley to Elizabeth that we have got on display - which some say was stained with the queen's tears when she learned of his death - while fans of more modern history enjoy looking around the 1930s rooms."
The castle is a place intimately linked with some of the most important figures in English history. With its impressive Norman keep, John of Gaunt's great hall and the magnificent buildings raised for Queen Elizabeth I it is among the largest ruins in the country.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?We'd like to hear your views on this story. You can send us your comments by simply clicking on this email:
This is what I thinkSEND US YOUR STORIESIf you have a story for our newsdesk, please click on the following link:
Click here to email your reportKenilworth was granted to Simon de Montfort by Henry III in 1253. Simon was the leader of a baronial reform campaign, which resulted in war and his death in 1265 at the Battle of Evesham. But his supporters famously defended the castle for nearly a year, succumbing only to starvation.
In 1326 Edward II was imprisoned at Kenilworth and forced to renounce the throne, before his transfer to Berkeley Castle and reputed murder by red hot poker.
By 1394, John of Gaunt had added the great hall and the private apartments of the inner court, turning a fortress into a palace. Back in royal ownership, it was favoured by Henry V, who created the Pleasaunce, a summerhouse and water-garden. Elizabeth I's favourite, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, was granted the castle in the 16th century, and added more fine buildings to receive the queen and her court. Kenilworth became the focus of extravagant festivities and in 1575 Elizabeth paid a 19-day visit and was lavishly entertained with music, dancing, hunting and fireworks. The elaborate gatehouse and stables still bear witness to this high point in Kenilworth's history, but the castle never saw such glories again. After the Civil War it was partially demolished, and the great lake was drained away. Saved for the nation in 1938, Kenilworth remains an atmospheric reminder of great leaders, their glories, pleasures and rebellions. It also offers fine countryside views - with the Millennium Trail from the castle to the Pleasaunce one of the best ways to enjoy them.
What is it? One of the country's largest ruined castles with intimate ties to key figures of English history.
Where is it? Castle Green, Kenilworth.
Opening times. June until September 1: 10am to 6pm seven days a week.
Admission: Adult £5.90, children £3.00, concession £4.40, family ticket £14.80.
Contact: Call 864152 or visit
www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworthcastle