Built in 1540 as part of Henry VIII’s chain of coastal defences, centuries of domestic refinements have transformed it from a fortress to an elegant stately home with beautiful gardens.
Walmer Castle is the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and has been home to an incredible range of characters – past holders of the position include William Pitt, the Duke of Wellington, WH Smith, Winston Churchill and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
Inside the castle, discover stories and secrets from the castle's past and see some remarkable objects, including a pair of original Wellington boots. Visit the reception rooms of HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, and Queen Victoria’s bedroom.
Outside, explore over eight acres of award-winning, magnificent gardens including the restored glen, the yew-lined broadwalk, kitchen garden, wildflower meadows and shady woodland walks. Kids will love the brilliant play trail through the woods.
Relax in the tranquil Queen Mother's Garden, created by Penelope Hobhouse for Her Majesty’s 95th birthday, before visiting the Lord Warden's Tearoom or the Glasshouse Café.
Walmer was one of the ‘three castles in the Downs’. Deal Castle is just a mile along the coast, linked by a pleasant beachfront walking and cycle path; what remains of Sandown Castle, largely destroyed by coastal erosion, is now a volunteer-run community garden.
Accessibility:
The lower floor of the house, tearooms and most of the gardens are accessible. The upper floor of the house is accessed by staircase only.