Westenhanger Castle

Overview

Westenhanger Castle is a fortified medieval manor house located near Hythe in Kent, England. Originally established in the 11th century, it was transformed in the 14th and 16th centuries into one of the finest moated residences in south-east England. The castle combines elements of a feudal stronghold with the grandeur of a Tudor mansion, reflecting its long association with nobility and royalty. Though partly ruined, substantial sections of its curtain wall, towers, and gatehouse still stand, offering a vivid glimpse into England’s aristocratic past.

Early history

The origins of Westenhanger date back to shortly after the Norman Conquest, when lands in the area were granted to Norman barons as part of the consolidation of William the Conqueror’s new realm. The earliest reference to a manor at Westenhanger appears in the Domesday Book of 1086. By the 14th century, the estate had passed to the de Criol family, who fortified the site with a moat and stone walls. Its position near the coast made it strategically significant, both for defence and for royal travel between London and the continent.

Building and layout

The castle was developed into its present form between the 14th and 16th centuries. The medieval complex was enclosed by a substantial curtain wall with round corner towers, a gatehouse, and a broad water-filled moat. Within the walls stood the great hall, private apartments, kitchens, and service buildings arranged around a central courtyard. In the Tudor period, particularly under Sir Thomas Smythe and later the Smythe family, the castle was converted into a luxurious country house. New wings, large windows, and ornamental gardens were added, turning Westenhanger into an elegant residence suited to royal visits.

Later history and royal connections

Westenhanger Castle has strong links with the Tudor monarchy. King Henry VIII visited the castle several times and intended to expand it as a royal palace for his wife, Anne of Cleves. Elizabeth I also stayed here during her royal progresses. By the 17th century, however, the estate’s fortunes declined; parts of the castle were dismantled, and the main house fell into decay. Sections of the medieval curtain wall and gatehouse were later incorporated into a farmhouse and stables, preserving much of the original plan within a working estate.

Present condition

Today, Westenhanger Castle survives as a striking blend of ruin and restoration. The site retains its imposing curtain walls, corner towers, gatehouse, and part of the Tudor mansion. The moat still encircles much of the enclosure, enhancing the castle’s picturesque setting. The property is privately owned and managed as an events venue, though it remains a Scheduled Monument and Grade I listed building. Visitors can explore the grounds on open days or during special events. Westenhanger Castle stands as a remarkable testament to the evolution of English fortified domestic architecture — from Norman defence to Tudor splendour.