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Castles In Kent |
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Allington Castle |
2 miles North West of Maidstone Built in the 11th
century, but in 1281 a stone castle was built, converted to a mansion in the 15th century.
In 1600 a fire left only enough for a farmhouse. Following restoration, in 1951 it was
taken over by the Carmelite order. The castle is not open to the public. more
information  |
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Deal & Walmer
Castles |
9 miles North East of Dover, off A258 Built to
protect the southern coast by Henry VIII, the castle consists of six bastions in the form
of a tower with an outer wall to protect it. It was a Royalist stronghold during the
Civil War and when it was attacked by Parliamentarians suffered extensive damage. In World
War II it was bombed. more information |
Dover Castle |
off
A2 at Dover Facing threats from Europe, the
castle has always been part of Britain's defence since the Romans. William the Conqueror
strengthened fortifications and Henry II reconstructed it. In the Napoleonic wars
the castle was altered and in World War II heavy guns were mounted over the harbour. more information |
Hever Castle |
3
miles South-East of Edenbridge, off B2026 Dating from 1340 Ann
Boleyn grew up and was courted by Henry VIII here. After she was
beheaded, the castle was taken by the Crown. In 1903, William Waldorf
Astor bought it, and a mock Tudor village was built, with gardens
landscaped in an Italian style.
more information |
Leeds Castle |
5
miles East of Maidstone, off A20 Its first
owner Leed or Ledian, Chief Minister of the King of Kent, constructed a wooden stronghold
and a Norman castle followed. A favourite of Henry VIII, it was given to Sir Anthony St
Ledger and has been inhabited since. Capability Brown designed the garden and parkland. more
information |
Rochester Castle |
10
miles north of Maidstone, off M2 One of the first stone built
castles, constructed by the Bishop of Rochester in 1090. Restored
after two sieges,it was damaged again in 1264. Repaired by Edward
III and improved by Richard II, it was then allowed to decay.18th century
demolition plans were not carried out, leaving it as you see today.
more information
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