Top 10 Castles in Kent, England

The most iconic of all English fortresses commanding the gateway to the realm for nine centuries. Climb the Great Tower, meet the characters and immerse yourself in vivid medieval interiors. Then delve deep within Dover's White Cliffs to witness the drama in the Secret Wartime Tunnels. Roam through centuries of history at Dover Castle, from the Romans to the 20th century, in an action-packed day out.

Considered one of the most romantic castles in England, this historic site was originally the stately home of the Saxon royal family during the reign of Ethelbert IV in 856-860.

Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the intriguing second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. The castle is a romantic double moated 13th-century castle which houses historic 16th-century portraits, paintings, furniture, tapestries and treasures. Comprehensive information on the history of Hever Castle can be found in the guide book and audio tours are available from the Hever Shop, Visitor Centre or castle entrance. Visitors can explore the magnificent gardens for all seasons which include Italian, Rose and Tudor gardens, topiary, yew maze and splashing water maze, or take a stroll around the informal areas of Sunday Walk and Anne Boleyn's Walk. Hever hosts a number of special events throughout the season including gardening events with the head gardener and his team. Family fun includes jousting tournaments each summer, one of our most popular events.

Built in 1087, this castle is one of England's finest and best preserved examples of Norman architecture.

Open the door to this charming Tudor castle by the sea. Explore eight acres of magnificent gardens, woodland, and sea views. Explore the castle with the new multimedia guide, and come and see the original Wellington Boots. Take time to relax in the tearoom too and enjoy the food using produce from the gardens.

Chilham Castle Gardens is a picturesque, 25 acre, well maintained private garden situated on the Stour valley in the heart of rural Kent. 7 miles west of Canterbury and 9 miles north of ashford, Chilham Castle Gardens are easily accessible by both rail and road. With a mix of flower borders, kitchen garden, lawns, meadows and lake its the ideal place to visit for the views, to relax and to enjoy a picnic. Dogs are welcome on a lead.

Built by the order of King Henry VIII it is one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in England, and among the earliest and most elaborate of a chain of coastal forts, which also includes Calshot, Camber, Walmer and Pendennis Castles. Today you can explore the whole of the castle, from the storerooms to the first-floor captain’s residence. Take a walk around the defences and admire the squat, rounded bastions and cannons.

A charming, unique English country house and accredited museum, home to the late Denys Eyre Bower's fascinating collection of art & antiquities, and serving scrumptious cream teas in our traditional Tea Room, as well as being an award-winning heritage wedding venue.