Our View
This castle was Henry VIII’s most picturesque fort, one of a defensive chain built between 1539 and 1545 to counter an invasion threat from Catholic France and Spain. Although it was designed to mount heavy guns, great care was taken with its design, including carved Latin inscriptions in praise of Henry VIII and his son, Edward VI. It fell to Parliamentarian forces in 1646 with only a single shot being fired, which is one reason why it remains in such good condition.
Facilities – at a glance
Dogs allowed
Features
- Parking onsite
- Parking nearby
- Facilities: Induction loop, handrails, site folders
- Accessible toilets
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year Oct, daily 10-5; 1 Nov-23 Dec and 2 Jan- 11 Feb, Sat-Sun 10-4; 27 Dec-1 Jan, Wed-Mon 10-4; 12-25 Feb, daily 10-4; 26 Feb-29 Mar, Wed-Sun 10-4 (last admission 30 minutes before close). Castle may close for private events. Close
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