Deal Castle, Kent

Built by order of Henry VIII between 1539 and 1540, Deal Castle was constructed as an artillery fortress to counter the threat of invasion from Catholic France and Spain. It is shaped like a Tudor rose, being perfectly symmetrical, with a low, circular keep at its centre. Around the circumference of the keep are six bastions, with a further series of six bastions in the curtain wall, one of which serves as the gatehouse. All the outer walls of the castle and bastions are rounded to both provide strength and to deflect shot more efficiently than flat walls. The castle is completely surrounded by a very deep, wide moat.

According to various sources, Anne of Cleves stayed at Deal following her long voyage from Europe. From Deal, Anne left for London and her fateful meeting with King Henry.

In 1648, during the Civil War, Deal Castle was besieged but after that it never engaged in any further military action. The castle was fortified during the Napoleonic Wars, and further alterations were made during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Governor's lodgings were rebuilt at the beginning of the 19th century, but destroyed again in 1941 by German bombs in World War 2.

Visitors can listen to an audio tour of the castle and officers' quarters, and visit the dark passages that wind through the huge bastions.

If you enjoy cycling, a pleasant cycle path links Deal and Walmer Castles along the beachfront.

(Photographs courtesy of Trish and Chris Seymour.)

Opening Times

Opening times and days vary. Please check the website.

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Ticket Prices

Adults: £4.80
Children: £2.90
Concessions: £4.30
Family Ticket: £12.50

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Disabled Facilities

Access to castle: Via flagstone path and wooden drawbridge. Gatehouse, courtyard and ground floor accessible to visitors in wheelchairs. Wide spiral staircase to upper floors (one handrail). Interactive exhibition in basement via a flight of stone steps.
Toilets: No wheelchair access.
Shop: Two steps and narrow doorway; assistance required. Large gate can be opened for easier access to courtyard. Note: Prior notice is recommended to enable staff to make arrangements for a more rewarding visit.

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More Information

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