Canterbury Castle, Canterbury

Canterbury Castle was one of the three original Royal castles of Kent (the other two being Rochester Castle and Dover Castle). All 3 were built soon after the Battle of Hastings, on the main road from Dover to London. This was the route taken by William the Conqueror in 1066, and they were built originally as motte-and-bailey castles to guard this important route.

By the late 1300's Canterbury Castle had been overshadowed by the bigger fortifications at Dover and was transformed into a prison - by the 17th century it was left to ruin. Today the roofless shell is surrounded by a quiet garden - inside visitors can climb part way up one of the towers.

The castle enclosure re-used the Roman town wall as its southern boundary. Some reused Roman material can still be seen in the grounds.

(Photographs courtesy of Trish & Chris Seymour).

Opening Times

Open from morning until dusk.

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Ticket Prices

Admission is free.

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Disabled Facilities

Limited disabled access.

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More Information

Email: canterburyinformation@canterbury.gov.uk

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