Warwick

Map of Warwick, cropped from Warwickshire - John Speed Map 1610

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Warwick - panoramio

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Warwick Castle - Caesar's Tower 2016

St Mary's church in Church Street, geograph 6862602 by Steve Daniels

The Eastgate and Chapel of St Peter in Warwick, geograph 6862619 by Steve Daniels

Court House, Warwick

Warwick is a historic town located in the Warwickshire county of England. It is the county town of Warwickshire and is famous for its magnificent Warwick Castle, which has roots dating back to the start of the 12th century. The town lies upon the River Avon, approximately 11 miles (18 km) south of Coventry and just west of Leamington Spa and Whitnash with which it is conjoined.

History

Warwick's history extends to the Neolithic period, but it significantly grew in importance after the establishment of Warwick Castle by William the Conqueror in 1068. The castle was built as a means of maintaining control over the Midlands as England was consolidated. Throughout the Middle Ages, Warwick remained under the control of various Earls of Warwick, most notably Richard Neville, the 16th Earl of Warwick, known as the "Kingmaker" for his pivotal role in the Wars of the Roses.

The town suffered extensive damage during the Great Fire of Warwick in 1694, leading to the reconstruction of many of its buildings in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. This period saw the construction of many of the town's now-historic buildings and the layout of its streets that largely remain to this day.

Geography

Warwick is situated in the heart of England, surrounded by the Warwickshire countryside. The town's central location has contributed to its historical significance as a market town and its role in England's transport and communication networks over the centuries.

Economy

Historically, Warwick's economy was based on manufacturing, agriculture, and market trade. In recent years, the town has diversified its economic base, with tourism playing a significant role, thanks in part to attractions like Warwick Castle, the Warwick Racecourse, and the historic town center itself.

Culture

Warwick is home to several cultural events and institutions, including the Warwick Folk Festival and the Warwick Arts Festival. The town also boasts a range of museums, galleries, and historic buildings, offering a rich cultural experience to residents and visitors alike.

Education

Warwick is served by a number of primary schools, secondary schools, and colleges, providing education to the town's younger residents. The closest university is the University of Warwick, despite its name, is actually located on the outskirts of Coventry, not within Warwick itself.

Transport

The town is well-connected by road and rail. Warwick railway station offers services to London, Birmingham, and beyond, while the nearby M40 motorway provides direct road links to the rest of the country.

Notable People

Several notable individuals hail from Warwick, including Anthony Burgess, the author best known for his novel A Clockwork Orange, and Randolph Turpin, a former world middleweight boxing champion.

See Also

• Warwick Castle
• Warwickshire
• River Avon (Warwickshire)
• University of Warwick