Discover the best things to do in Kenilworth, Warwickshire
Local attractions near the Abbey Field
A stay at the welcoming Abbey Field pub hotel gives you easy access to some wonderful things to do in Kenilworth, whether you’re in town for a short visit or staying for a little longer.
Majestic castles, ancient medieval abbeys and vibrant nature reserves could all be on your itinerary. The town is also just a short drive from bustling Warwick and Royal Leamington Spa, if you fancy a day out full of history, shopping and culture.
Want to have a peek at a few attractions in more detail? Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do in Kenilworth, Warwickshire.
Kenilworth Castle
A day spent wandering around the storied halls of Kenilworth Castle is easily one of the best things to do in Warwickshire. This medieval fortress-turned-opulent Elizabethan palace was famously the home of Sir Robert Dudley – a man who history remembers as the true love of Queen Elizabeth I.
From marvelling at the interiors of the castle and discovering key facts about its former residents to climbing to the top of the tower for spectacular views, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. You can even get intentionally lost in the splendid Elizabethan gardens that are bursting with blooms over the summer months.
Should you crave a delicious meal after exploring this elegant site, there are few better places to eat near Kenilworth Castle than the Abbey Field. It’s just a short walk down the High Street.
Abbey Fields
Abbey Fields sits at the very heart of Kenilworth, offering a peaceful escape and a wealth of captivating attractions. Once the grounds of St Mary’s Abbey and the inspiration behind the name of our pub hotel, the park’s ancient ruins still stand proudly at the centre, serving as a poignant reminder of the area’s rich history.Just next door, the Kenilworth Abbey Museum & Heritage Centre invites you to delve deeper into the abbey’s fascinating past. As you explore, let the allure of the park’s heritage wash over you. Meander along the many well-marked trails, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape.
If you find yourself wandering towards the shimmering lake, take a moment to watch the resident ducks gliding across the water. Alternatively, why not pack a picnic with a few treats from the Abbey Field and settle on the grassy banks, perfectly positioned to soak up the warmth of the day? This may become one of your favourite things to do in Kenilworth, every time you visit.
Stoneleigh Abbey
A trip to Stoneleigh Abbey is a must if you’re in the area. A former Cistercian monastery built during the 12th century, Stoneleigh was transformed into a grand house for the Leigh family after the Dissolution of the Monasteries. And what a house it is!
Many well-known figures have walked through the corridors and grand rooms of this Grade I listed property. Jane Austen stayed at Stoneleigh in 1806, while Queen Victoria visited for two nights in 1858. Explore the very rooms where they lived, slept and ate before following the Repton Walk through the abbey’s wonderful gardens.
We think it makes for a truly memorable day out, and you’ll soon see why a visit to the abbey is one of the most popular things to do in Kenilworth.
Crackley Wood Nature Reserve
If a breath of fresh air is what you need after a filling Sunday roast at the Abbey Field, make a beeline for the idyllic Crackley Woods Nature Reserve. This Warwickshire Wildlife Trust site sits just north of the town centre and provides the perfect setting for peaceful walks, birdwatching and photography.A vibrant mix of ancient trees, meadows and streams, this nature reserve is exceptionally serene, especially in spring when bluebells and wildflowers bloom. It’s also home to various wildlife, including deer, foxes and numerous bird species, making it an ideal spot if you’re looking to connect with nature in a calm, unspoiled setting.
Of all the local attractions to explore during your stay with us, we think this is the most relaxing.
Warwick Castle
If you’re planning a day in nearby Warwick, there’s no better place to visit than Warwick Castle. It’s one of Britain’s most impressive medieval fortresses, and its walls have plenty of stories to tell, from fearsome battles to royal visits.
The castle was built by William the Conqueror in 1068 and is remarkably still intact. Soak up the views from the ramparts and towers, venture down into the eerie dungeon and marvel at the castle’s impressive armoury collection.
Warwick Castle also hosts various special events throughout the year, from jousting tournaments and birds of prey shows to seasonal events around Christmas, Easter and Halloween; all adding to its standing as one of the best things to do in Warwickshire.