It is a magnificent architecture even though it's incomplete, but it still remains a remarkable location, grade I listed.
owned by the English Heritage.
Our day out proved well worth it. You really have to appreciate history to benefit this place, complete with a picnic we took some great pictures too.

Kirby Muxloe Castle was built by William, Lord Hastings, the chamberlain of the royal household, and a favourite of Edward IV. William had acquired extensive estates across the Midlands during the Wars of the Roses, much of it confiscated from his enemies.

Sadly, work on the castle came to an end before it was finished – Lord Hastings met an untimely end when he was executed on 13th July 1483 by the future king Richard 111 in the Tower of London. It is not known why Richard came to this hasty decision to be rid of his friend and advisor. It appears that Richard thought that Hastings was plotting against him, but Hastings was never given the opportunity of a trial in which to refute any allegations.

Work on the castle ceased immediately the news came to Kirby of Lord Hastings’ demise and although the widow of Lord Hastings was later issued with a special grant, restoring the family’s inheritance, the castle was eventually abandoned and gradually fell into decay, until it was subsequently restored in 1911/13.

It has been speculated that Richard's benevolence to Widow Hastings was an indication of his regret over his hasty actions. We will never know for certain.


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