|
Edward III built Queenborough Castle on the Isle of Sheppey, in
1366. It’s principle aim, to protect the estuary against French raids.
Named after Queen Philippia, the Royal Borough was given its charter in 1368,
but the town did not grow as expected with only 23 houses by 1571.
The castle was held directly by the crown and constables were appointed to
manage it.
The first was Sir John de Foxle, in 1364, followed by John of Gaunt. A
number of eminent persons were appointed thereafter, including Sir William Le Scrope, who was also
lord chamberlain, he was beheaded by Henry IV; Thomas Arundel, Archbishop of Canterbury; Sir
Humphrey de Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, who was also Constable of Dover and Warden of the Cinque
Ports.
In 1450, Jack Cade stormed the castle, following
his uprising that began at Sevenoaks where he and 2000 people mobbed royalist troops.
A royal pardon was given to quell the rising and it was thought to
have been suppressed.
|
Old Queenborough Castle Photo
Old Queenborough Castle - click to enlarge
However, Jack with a remnant
of his followers, attacked the castle, which was successfully defended by Sir Roger Chamberleyn and
two men.
In 1530, Henry VIII had the
castle repaired to help strengthen his defences and in 1588, Queen Elizabeth I, had repairs carried
out at the time of the Armada.
Queenborough Castle Today
Nothing now remains of the
castle as it was condemned and destroyed by Cromwell’s parliamentary forces in 1650 during the
Civil War.
The castle site now
accommodates the railway station.
|
