The Lord Leycester - Historic Site and Gardens

The Lord Leycester is one of the most remarkable medieval sites in Britain — and still home to a community of veterans today. Located on Warwick’s High Street beside the West Gate, the site has over 900 years of history, centred on the Chapel of St James the Great, built in 1123 above the town’s original gateway. Founded in 1571 by Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, it remains a working charitable home for former soldiers, known as the Brethren. Unlike a traditional museum, the Lord Leycester is a living community. Visitors can explore the medieval buildings, courtyard and gardens, and join guided tours led by the Brethren themselves. With a café and gift shop open to all, it offers a rare chance to experience history still being lived.

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   The Lord Leycester

   The Lord Leycester is one of Europe’s most important medieval buildings. Situated in the heart of Warwick next to the original West Gate of the town, it was built by the Guilds in 1380, and later acquired by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester in 1571. The buildings feature a Medieval Banqueting Hall, Guildhall and 900-year-old Chapel. Having undergone a £5m restoration, completed in August 2023, The Lord Leycester has been transformed into a modern heritage visitor attraction with fascinating displays showcasing the site’s rich history and updated facilities, including a new Café and Gift Shop. Visitors can also relax in the 500-year-old Master's Garden, a tranquil oasis in the centre of town. Within the impressive half-timbered buildings, Dudley founded a home for retired soldiers called ‘Brethren’ and installed a Master to oversee the running of the organisation. This is a tradition that has continued for over 450 years.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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