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Castles in Tonbridge, Kent
Tonbridge Castle
Tonbridge Castle Tourist Information Centre
Council Offices
Castle Street
Tonbridge
Kent
TN9 1BG
Tel : +44(0)1732 770929
Fax : +44(0)1732 770449
Email: click here
Tonbridge Castle online: information and bookings
Tonbridge boasts Kent's best example of a Motte-and-Bailey Gatehouse, and its mighty gatehouse is among the finest in England.
Yet its glory lies not only in what can be seen. Its story is interwoven with that of kings and archbishops, tyrants and heroes, murderers and mercenaries who, on this ancient site and inside these weathered stone walls, have helped write 900 years of English history.
Audio tours of the castle are available in English, French, Dutch and German
On August 30th 1999, the Gatehouse at Tonbridge Castle closed to visitors and work on a £375,000 millenium project began. The missing floors on the ground and first floor levels have been replaced, and spiral staircase in the East Tower repaired.
This enables a circular tour of the gatehouse to be possible. In replacing the floors, two additional rooms have been created. An education room mainly for school and group use, provision for an exhibition space for local community use, and a second venue for Civil marriage ceremonies has been provided. Architect Stuart Page ensured the work was of a high quality and in keeping with the fabric of the Medieval Gatehouse.
In September 2000, the Gatehouse reopened in celebration of the Millennium. A Victorian Birthday Party commemorated 100 years of the castle being in local authority ownership and the Heritage Open Days Festival was celebrated Borough wide.
In 2003, the re-roofing of the Gatehouse was completed. The project, led by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, cost approximately £450,000. The Council received some financial help in the form of a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This latest restoration work will help preserve the structure of the Gatehouse, improve the interior of the building and provide shelter all year round. You can now enjoy your visit to Tonbridge Castle whatever the weather!
Tonbridge Castle is owned and operated by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.
For further details contact the Tourist Information Centre at Tonbridge Castle on +44(0)1732 770929
Facilities
Historic House, Gardens, Picnic Area, Children, Car Park, Private Group Tours, School Tours Available,
Weddings and Conferences
Facilties available for weddings, receptions and conferences.
Surrounded by 14 acres of beautiful grounds and a choice between the Chamber Room, The Medievel Gatehouse and The Great Hall, Tonbridge Castle offers the ideal venue for weddings.
Please email for further information rosemary.longhurst@tmbc.gov.uk
Attractions Nearby
Tonbridge Castle is approximately a 10 minute walk through the High Street from Tonbridge Station
In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting
