Welcome to my complete Kent castles list. If you’ve ever fancied a day of English heritage, a medieval castle, a stately home, historic buildings, a rose garden, stepping into moats, turrets, beautiful gardens, a great hall, a family home, sweeping views and plenty of “wow” moments, you’re in the right place. I’ve lived in Kent for almost all of my life, so I’ve visited a fair few of these myself. I’ve pulled together a complete list of Kent castles, divided into regions in the south east, so you can pick your area, plan a lovely outing at the best castles, formal gardens, or even a road trip at these magnificent castles. I’ll share what you’ll find, why it’s special, and how to visit. You can find out about how to take a guided tour, explore majestic gardens, years of history and also find a top tip or two about the beautiful castle you’d like to visit in the county of Kent.
Kent Castles List
Grab your comfy walking shoes, a camera, because let’s face it, there are photo ops everywhere at a castle, and let’s look at all the amazing castles in Kent.
West Kent & The Weald – Kent Castles List
Hever Castle (near Edenbridge)
Nestled in the village of Hever, near Edenbridge, this double-moated beauty is a standout. It was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and carries that Tudor drama in spades.
Why it’s special: Picture a 13th-century moated castle, rich Tudor interiors full of fine furniture, tapestries, and even prayer books belonging to Anne Boleyn herself.
Practical details: It’s open daily. The site includes 125 acres of gorgeous grounds. There are special experiences, such as falconry events.
Visitor tip: Arrive early to enjoy the gardens quietly. The moated setting makes lovely reflections at dawn or dusk. Make sure to check online for ticketing and special event days.
Tone note: This castle is perfect for a relaxed Sunday outing. You can let the kids explore the topiary and maze, while you pause for a coffee by the water.
Chiddingstone Castle (Chiddingstone)
Set in the charming village of Chiddingstone, this lesser-known castle adds a wonderfully atmospheric stop.
Why it’s special: Originally a fortified manor, later transformed into a ‘castle’ in the 19th century. Full of period furnishings, artwork and a beautiful garden.
Practical details: The castle is open to visitors from March onwards, 5 days a week (not Monday or Tuesday), so you are best to check online first. As it is smaller than some of the big attractions, you’ll likely enjoy it with fewer crowds.
Visitor tip: Pair your visit with a stroll through the village – Chiddingstone is very picturesque, with old-world charm. If you enjoy a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot, this is your gem.
Eynsford Castle (Eynsford)
A quieter, more rustic castle experience: a Norman motte and bailey ruin in Eynsford, in the Darent Valley.
Why it’s special: For lovers of ruins and scenic river-valley landscapes, Eynsford offers moody stone remains, a beautiful environment and a sense of stepping back in time.
Practical details: It is open to the public as a ruin and as such has free entry.
Visitor tip: Bring a picnic and settle by the nearby river after exploring the castle. It’s peaceful, green and perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Tonbridge Castle (Tonbridge)
Right in the heart of Tonbridge, this castle is a strong contender for a full-day outing.
Why it’s special: You get a classic castle motte, a magnificent 13th-century gatehouse, and scenic riverside surroundings.
Practical details: Open to the public; there’s a visitor centre, and the grounds double as a lovely park.
Visitor tip: Combine with lunch in Tonbridge town centre, as there are lots of café options and maybe an afternoon riverside walk after you’ve done the castle.
Maidstone & The Downs -Kent Castles List
Leeds Castle (Broomfield, Maidstone)
Ah, this one’s a full-on delight for history lovers, families, romantics and explorers alike. It’s one of my personal favourites as well. Set in 500 acres of parkland, with lakes, gardens, a maze, adventure golfing, and the castle itself.
Why it’s special: Norman stronghold, royal palace for six medieval queens, then Henry VIII’s residence, and now a blockbuster ‘day out’ castle with all the trimmings.
Practical details: Tickets are priced from £33 for adults and £23.50 online. Grounds & gardens are open from 10 am, with the castle opening from 10:30 am.
Visitor tip: Plan for a full day. With so much to do (maze, adventure golf, woodland walks), it’s more than just a castle hop. If you’re travelling from London or just doing a half-day from Maidstone, focus on the castle and the water views, but if you have time, linger in the gardens and explore the museum.
Tone note: This is your wow castle. Bring the family, bring friends, make it a mini-break. If you like extras like the sandpit, playground and the grotto, you’ll be in heaven.
Allington Castle (Medway, north of Maidstone)
A somewhat lesser-visited spot, but full of character. A restored castle/manor perched by the River Medway.
Why it’s special: The riverside setting is lovely, and its restoration gives that mix of medieval plus comfort.
Practical details: It’s only available to visit as part of a pre-booked tour, so you’ll need to book ahead. It’s more intimate than the big tourist castles.
Visitor tip: Combine with a Medway riverside stroll or a stop at a nearby café. Less crowded, more relaxed.
Sutton Valence Castle (south of Maidstone)
A ruin on a hill overlooking the Weald with dramatic views, fewer crowds and lots of atmosphere.
Why it’s special: You’ll feel like you’ve escaped the bustle. Great for those who love exploring ruins with a sense of wildness.
Practical details: As a ruin, there are fewer visitor facilities, so plan accordingly.
Visitor tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and maybe a snack. The hilltop view is worth it, especially at golden hour in the late afternoon.
Thurnham Castle (North Downs, east of Maidstone)
Another castle ruin, perched above the Downs.
Why it’s special: A quieter, contemplative stop. Less of a theme-park castle with much more of a historic mood.
Practical details: Access involves a country lane, so you’ll want to plan ahead with regard to parking and access before going.
Visitor tip: Ideal if you’re combining with a walk along the North Downs Way or exploring the Kentish countryside.
Leybourne Castle (between Maidstone & West Malling)
This one’s more in the hidden gem category. It’s fragments of the castle, incorporated into later buildings, which is nice to see if you’re in the area.
Why it’s special: The charm is in the less polished nature of this castle. You’ll feel like you’ve found a secret piece of Kent’s past.
Practical details: It’s free to visit, but there are no facilities.
Visitor tip: Best paired with a lunch or coffee stop in a nearby West Malling.
North Kent, Medway & Swale – Kent Castles List
Rochester Castle (Rochester)
Heading into the north of Kent, this is one of the heavyweights of castle history. It has a massive stone keep and commanding presence above the River Medway.
Why it’s special: One of the best preserved Norman keeps in England. It has a dramatic setting, and Rochester town has a lot of charm too.
Practical details: Open to visitors, with ticketing and visitor amenities in place. You’ll find the castle is well set up for visitors.
Visitor tip: Make a full day of it and explore Rochester town afterwards. There are lots of independent shops and a great café culture. You could also walk along the river. The castle’s elevated position gives awesome views for photo lovers.
Upnor Castle (Upper Upnor, Medway)
A coastal/fluvial-fortress vibe, which was built to protect the Medway and the naval dockyard.
Why it’s special: Less fancied up than large tourist castles, it has a more historic fortification feel. You’ll find the riverside setting adds atmosphere.
Practical details: There is visitor access. I’d suggest travelling via boat from the opposite bank, as sometimes nice to arrive by water.
Visitor tip: Combine with a walk along the river or a boat trip. Bring binoculars if you like spotting ships or birds.
Cooling Castle (Cooling, Hoo Peninsula)
Out toward the Hoo Peninsula, this is one of the more dramatic ruins in Kent. The 14th-century gatehouse is still standing.
Why it’s special: Remote, wild-feeling, atmospheric. A real escape from the tourist trail.
Practical details: Access is a bit more limited, so check directions before you go or use local signage. You’ll also want to check the opening times, especially in the off-season.
Visitor tip: Ideal for a quiet morning trip; bring a snack and plan to take your time. Maybe pair with a visit to the nearby marshes or coastal viewpoint.
Queenborough Castle (Isle of Sheppey)
On the Isle of Sheppey in the Swale district, this is a castle site where only earthworks now survive.
Why it’s special: The sense of a lost fortress by the coast gives a strong pull, which is great for history buffs and quiet wanderers.
Practical details: The earthworks are free to access. During your visit, you can find out more about the former castle via the Queenborough Guildhall Museum.
Visitor tip: Combine with a coastal walk across Sheppey; the island has that end-of-the-land feel which suits the castle ruins perfectly.
Stone Castle (Stone, just east of Dartford)
A fortified manor/castle in the Thames Gateway.
Why it’s special: Handy if you’re combining with a London-escape day. It is less visited, so more peaceful.
Practical details: Because of its near-London, but still rural location, you’ll want to check ahead if you are travelling via public transport.
Visitor tip: If you’re living/working around London or Kent, this makes a convenient half-day outing rather than a full day.
Canterbury & The Stour Valley – Kent Castles List
Canterbury Castle (just outside Canterbury)
One of the three original royal castles of Kent (along with Dover & Rochester) and very historic, though now mostly ruins.
Why it’s special: The connection with Canterbury, plus strolling in ancient grounds, gives a layered day out of castle and city culture.
Practical details: As a ruin, the facilities are simpler. You can currently only visit the outside of the castle and walk around the grounds as they are doing restoration work. Many visitors combine their day with Canterbury Cathedral for a historic city centre trip.
Visitor tip: Make it a multi-stop day: cathedral, castle ruins, lunch in Canterbury, then maybe a river trip or garden walk.
Dane John Mound (Canterbury)
This is more of a motte/hill-fort than a fully intact castle, located in a lovely park in Canterbury called the Dane John Gardens.
Why it’s special: Great for a gentle stroll with historical interest. If you don’t have time for a full castle, this gives you a taste.
Practical details: There is a free public parkand the park is open daily. There is no major visitor centre.
Visitor tip: Good for families or a quick stop in the city before you move on elsewhere.
Chilham Castle (Chilham)
Just west of Canterbury, in the village of Chilham, the castle is now a private house, but the village and surroundings are delightful.
Why it’s special: The intimate feel, the historic village square, the country atmosphere.
Practical details: Since the castle is private, you can only visit the garden and grounds of Chilham Castle. You’ll need to check when the gardens are open, as these are not open every day.
Visitor tip: Plan a lunch in the village, wander the square, maybe visit the parish church, then view the castle façade and enjoy the peace.
Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh – Kent Castles List
Folkestone Castle (Folkestone / Castle Hill)
High up above Folkestone, the remains of the early fortification (sometimes called Folkestone Castle or Castle Hill) give spectacular coastal views.
Why it’s special: The mix of castle-ruin and cliff-top sea view is irresistible. Especially great for photographers and those wanting a view with a breeze.
Practical details: It’s more of a viewpoint and a ruin, so there aren’t any facilities. Make sure you plan transport, but Folkestone is accessible by train.
Visitor tip: Arrive before sunset for dramatic light; combine with a coffee in Folkestone harbour afterwards.
Sandgate Castle (Sandgate)
A coastal Device Fort built under Henry VIII’s programme, lying between Folkestone and Hythe. Part of it has been lost to the sea, and it is now private in parts.
Why it’s special: If you love military history, sea-views, and want to see a castle in danger of sea-erosion, this one ticks boxes.
Practical details: Because it’s partly private/residential, access is quite limited. You’ll be best to view this from the coast path or public vantage points.
Visitor tip: Combine with a stretch along the Saxon Shore Way or a beach stop at Sandgate. A picnic by the sea, plus the castle, is a nice day out.
Lympne Castle (above Romney Marsh)
Near the edge of Romney Marsh, above Lympne village, is a fortified manor/castle with fine countryside around.
Why it’s special: Marsh views, big skies with a sense of remoteness. It’s all relatively easy to reach.
Practical details: You’ll need to check opening days, as there are only some days you can visit. Primarily, it is now a wedding venue.
Visitor tip: Pair with a walk across Romney Marsh for a nice day out. Think salt air, wild grass and birds. A great stop if you’re exploring coastal Kent.
Saltwood Castle (near Hythe)
A rich historic site: the fortified manor/castle inland from Hythe. Famous for its link to the murder of Thomas Becket.
Why it’s special: If you love serious history (12th-century drama, archbishops, medieval intrigue), this one’s got stories.
Practical details: As it’s privately owned, access is restricted. They do hold a few special open days a few times a year, usually for events like plant sales and craft fairs.
Visitor tip: If you can’t go inside, still swing by the village and take photos from the public footpath. The historic aura is strong.
Westenhanger Castle (near Hythe)
Ruins near the former racecourse west of Hythe. It’s partially standing, partially ruin, hidden amidst fields and tracks.
Why it’s special: A secret castle feel for those who like exploring off the main tourist radar.
Practical details: Facilities are minimal, so plan for a countryside walk and maybe bring a map with you.
Visitor tip: Go in good weather as this is best for those who don’t mind a bit of rustic and want something relaxed and uncrowded.
Dover, Deal & The White Cliffs Coast – Kent Castles List
Dover Castle (Dover)
One of the grandest castles in Kent (and in England). If the coast, tunnels, big history and sweeping scenery are your thing, this is the one.
Why it’s special: Massive fortress perched above the port of Dover, centuries of history from medieval to World War II, great sweeping sea-views.
Practical details: As a major attraction, access, visitor centre, cafés and full facilities exist. Exact ticketing and hours depend on when you visit, so you’ll want to book ahead.
Visitor tip: Combine with a ferry-view or a white-cliffs walk, perhaps sail past the castle by boat if time allows. Spend a chunk of the day here.
Tone note: This is the castle you plan for. Bring layers as it’s windy on the cliffs, wear good shoes for the tunnels and slopes, and soak in the drama.
Deal Castle (Deal)
A seaside castle: one of the “Device Forts” built by Henry VIII along the coast, right on the beach at Deal.
Why it’s special: The beach and castle are a great day out. You can visit, then stroll the seafront, maybe enjoy an ice-cream.
Practical details: Open to visitors, but I’d suggest checking tide times if you are heading to the beach. It’s a good day out for families.
Visitor tip: Arrive via train if possible, as Deal station is beautiful. Maybe end the day with a fish & chips by the sea.
Walmer Castle (Walmer)
Just down the coast from Deal, another Device Fort, but with excellent gardens and historic interiors.
Why it’s special: Gardens that shine, peace, history and again a bit of seaside charm.
Practical details: Full visitor facilities. The gardens are a highlight, especially in spring and summer. It’s ideal for a relaxed outing.
Visitor tip: If you’re visiting the Deal area anyway, do both Deal & Walmer in one go. Two castles, same stretch of coast, but with a nice contrast.
Sandown Castle, Kent (Deal)
Another Device Fort on the seafront at Deal, but unlike some others, much has been lost. This is more of a historical footprint than a full castle.
Why it’s special: For the history buff who likes imagining what was there, or soaking in the layered past of the coastline.
Practical details: Access is mainly external, with viewing from public paths. There aren’t any facilities there.
Visitor tip: Use the stop to reflect and photograph rather than as a full site visit. Maybe tie in a stroll to the other Deal castles.
Thanet Coast – Kent Castles List
Kingsgate Castle (Kingsgate Bay, between Broadstairs & Margate)
Up on the cliffs above Kingsgate Bay, this one is less of a medieval fortress and more of a castle-style house. There are great views.
Why it’s special: A clifftop setting with dramatic sea-views. Lovely, cliff-path walks and a sense of escapism.
Practical details: The castle is now apartments and is not open as a tourist castle. The public viewpoint is excellent, though.
Visitor tip: Pair with a beach stop at Kingsgate Bay, which is one of Kent’s hidden beach gems and maybe a walk along the North Foreland cliff top.
Bonus Castle-Style Houses & Gardens in Kent
Just because we’re thorough and because you’re likely to see castle tagged on these even if they’re more manor-house than fortified fortress, here are some magical extras:
Scotney Castle (near Lamberhurst, Kent/East Sussex border)
Picture a moated medieval ruin and a romantic country house above, set in a wild valley. If you like dramatic landscapes and garden-wildness, this is it. Visit via the National Trust.
Visitor tip: Great in autumn when leaves are turning. You should bring a coat as it can get breezy by the ruined bridge.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden (near Cranbrook)
Famed for its gardens (the late Vita Sackville-West’s masterpiece) and tower rather than the full castle, but worth the stop.
Visitor tip: If you love gardens, chiffon tea and floral scents, this will make your heart sing.
Whitstable Castle (Whitstable)
A later build (18th–19th century), which is more of a castle-style house. It’s by the sea at Whitstable, which makes it a charming trip.
Visitor tip: Visit Whitstable anyway for oysters, the harbour, independent shops, and the castle adds a touch of history.
Planning Tips
I’d suggest picking your area. If you only have one day, choose one region (e.g., Maidstone & Downs or Dover/Deal coast) and do 1 or 2 castles in that region to avoid rushing around.
You’ll want to check opening times, especially with smaller or ruined sites, as their hours may vary by season. Big attractions (Leeds, Hever, Dover) have full visitor infrastructure and are easier to plan.
Many castles are accessible by car, but some are great by train (e.g., Leeds Castle has a nearby station) or by combining bus/foot.
Bring good walking shoes, a camera or smartphone with a camera, maybe a picnic, water, and always check the weather ahead of your visit, especially for coastal castles.
You could combine your castle visit with something else. For example, a café lunch in a historic village, a riverside stroll, a beach stop or garden time. That way, the day doesn’t feel all castle, castle, castle… but balanced.
Some gardens look best in spring and summer. Autumn has beautiful colours, and winter may have shorter opening hours. So think about when is best to go.
If you like peace and fewer crowds, pick the lesser-visited ruins (e.g., Thurnham, Newnham, Westenhanger). If you’re after full attractions (playgrounds, cafés, big gardens), go for the big ones (Leeds, Hever).
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Enjoy exploring Kent’s Castles! I hope my Kent castles list has been useful.