Walmer Castle

Built by Henry VIII in 1539–1540, Walmer Castle was constructed to withstand potential attacks from the French and Spanish following Henry's break with the Roman Catholic Church, however its defences were never tested in the Tudour period. Walmer Castle, is one of three forts built to defend the Downs, an area of safe anchorage protected by the Goodwin Sands. The other forts are at Sandown and Deal. The castle would have been well protected from attack with a capacity to mount 39 guns on the roof of the keep and on the four semicircular bastions. In addition A gallery running around the castle at basement level has 32 loops for hand-guns covering the moat.' The Duke of Wellington held the post here for more than 20 years. The armchair in which Wellington died and an original pair of 'Wellington boots' are on display today. The magnificent gardens and woodland walk helps to make it a great day out for the whole family.