Tourist Profile Ten castles in Kent


FROM Dover to Deal, and Walmer to Westenhanger, Kent is certainly the king of castles. Spurred by the need to repel various waves of invaders through the centuries, the county’s lords and landowners have left a treasure trove of keeps and crenellations. Many have become major tourist attractions while others are still homes to the families who have owned them for generations. Visitors are advised to check opening details.


Leeds Billed as “the loveliest castle in the world”, Leeds is


situated four miles south-east of Maidstone. Dating back to 1119, the castle is set in 500 acres of lush parkland and has been altered, rebuilt and added to over the centuries. It was lovingly restored by its last private owner Lady Baillie during the mid-20th century. Not only was the stonework restored to its former glory, but Lady Baillie also filled the castle with antiques, paintings and tapestries. Her home became a hit with film stars, royalty and politicians who were invited to the many parties. The castle is a major visitor attraction with many special events including musical concerts and a firework spectacular.


Dover Spectacularly


situated above the white cliffs of Dover, this magnificent castle is known as the “Key to England”, having guarded our shores from invasion for 20 centuries. Its commanding site combines an Iron Age hill fort, Roman lighthouse, Norman stronghold and royal palace. From medieval times to 1945, its defences were updated in response to every European war involving Britain. There is much to see and do, including exploring the secret wartime tunnels, with a recreation of the Dunkirk evacuation and a visit to the richly-furnished Great Tower where costumed actors portray life at Henry II’s court.


Walmer Six miles along the coast from Dover, enchanting Walmer Castle has links with the Duke of Wellington and Queen Mother. Built during the reign of Henry VIII,


it was originally designed as part of a chain of coastal artillery defences. It evolved into the official residence


of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, an office held by the Iron Duke for 23 years, and in recent years by the Queen Mother. The


armchair in which Wellington died and some of the rooms used by the Queen Mum are among the highlights which also include magnificent gardens and a woodland walk.


18 Mid Kent Living


Deal A cycle path along the


beach front leads from Walmer to Deal Castle, which is a mile away. Another of Henry VIII’s coastal defence points, and looking just like a toy fort, this is one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in the country. Visitors can explore the whole of the castle, from the dark passages and store-rooms to the first-floor captain’s residence, and stroll around the defences to admire the canons.


Chiddingstone Set in 35 acres of grounds including a lake rose gardens


and woodland, Chiddingstone Castle can be traced back to the early 1500s. The site has undergone many architectural changes and, during the 1800s, it was decided to rebuild the house as a medieval castle, that was sold to Lord Astor in 1938 and served as a base for military forces during the Second World War, then as a home for the Long Dene school until it closed in 1954. Visitors can enjoy stunning collections of Egyptian and


Buddhist artefacts, Japanese armour and Jacobean paintings that are held in trust for the nation.


Rochester On the banks of the


Medway, and strategically placed on the London road, Rochester Castle guards an important river crossing. This imposing fortress has a history of destruction and rebuilding, having endured an epic siege in 1215 by King John. Part of the keep collapsed, but the castle was later given the status of a major royal stronghold and the shattered part was rebuilt with further defences added. Edward III undertook a major rebuilding and restoration programme and, by 1400, Rochester was once again a viable fortress. By the 17th century the castle had become neglected, the keep had been burned out and stone was being removed for local building sites. In 1870, it was leased to the City of Rochester and turned into a public park and is now in the care of English Heritage. On its doorstep are the beautiful cathedral and the cobbled streets of Dickensian Rochester.


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