Henry VIII’s defence against our neighbours
On a bright autumnal morning, there’s only one place to head, and that’s the British coastline.
So, Gary and I set off to discover Deal Castle the Tudor artillery fort on the beautiful shoreline of Kent overlooking the English Channel.

Armed with our English Heritage membership cards rather than our bucket and spades, Deal and Walmer Castle were calling our names.
While visiting Deal Castle ensure you save plenty of time to stroll around the charming town of Deal, with its pastel-coloured houses lined along ancient lanes.
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Interested in the coast around England?
We have a new little book on our shelves that we delve into when we're heading to the coast.
Packed full of historical facts, and broken down into the different counties of England. It tells tales of the history of the shoreline that surrounds our country.
Available in Kindle & Hardback editions, it's an excellent addition to anyone's collection who loves the English seaside.
King Henry VIII left his mark
Deal Castle was built by Henry VIII's order between 1539-40 and was a key stronghold in the chain of coastal artillery forts, which formed a part of the King’s “Device Programme”.

Extremely concerned by the threat of invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire (which he had brought upon himself). King Henry VIII needed to defend his realm and therefore had three castles built (Walmer, Deal and Sandown). Along with the three castles, earthwork defences were constructed between them, for further protection of the Downs.

A defensive cannon
How to get there
The King took no chances
Although Deal Castle doesn’t sit on high commanding ground, its core strengths were its low-lying fortress.
Its main defences were a keep, six large outer and six inner circular stone bastions, and designed to offer firepower to its enemy from 140 guns. In addition, Deal Castle was protected by a moat.

The Bastions of Deal Castle

A secure entrance to Deal Castle
English Heritage Membership
If you plan on visiting multiple English Heritage sites, you may want to consider an annual pass. You’ll be amazed at how much you will save, just click on the banner below.
Free parking is available on site.
The rustic edges of Deal Castle

The lower levels of Deal Castle
Walmer Castle became rather sought after and was the home of the “Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports”. William Pitt the Younger, held the position during the late 18th & early 19th century. Then during the 19th century, the Duke of Wellington resided there and passed away in Walmer Castle.
This was also a position held by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.

An interesting read
If you're intrigued by Kent's weird and wonderful history, or all unusual stories around the county, then take a peek at "Kent's Strangest Tales".
You won't be able to put it down, you can pick it up for your Kindle or in good old paperback.
Free to roam Deal Castle
What I loved about Deal Castle is that the whole fortress is open for you to explore at your leisure.
Climb to the bastions’ uppermost point and wander around the top of the castle for some stunning views across the English Channel. On a clear day, you may even see France.

Cannons looking out to Sea

A secure exit

Kent coastal road trip
Deal Castle’s living quarters

The bakers oven
As you step back up through the narrow corridors, to the next level, you’ll enter the living quarters, complete with stone ovens and charred fireplaces. These surroundings feel a little more homely; however, they are still quite stark.

The remains of the fireplace


Image Caption
Kent rural road trip
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