Tonbridge Castle - Short History
The Tonbridge Castle was built on the north bank of the Medway
beside a ford and close to the present bridge.
Tonbridge Castle was in existence by 1088 when it was captured
by William II.
The masonry defences and shell keep on the motte were probably built in stone
during the 13th century.
The great gatehouse overlooking the town has close similarities with another
Clare gatehouse at Caerphilly Castle and was probably built around 1265.
Richard FitzGilbert was given the honour of Clare by the Conqueror and Tonbridge
was the caput of the de Clares' Surrey and West Kent estates.
The castle was dismantled by order of Parliament in 1646.
From that time on, Tonbridge Castle went through various hands
continuing in its demise, until 1739, it’s then owner, John Hooker, sold much of the stonework for
construction of locks and bridges on the River Medway.
A mansion house was built onto the side of the castle, which was built by his
son, Thomas Hooker in 1791.
The property has been a military academy in the 1860s, then a boy’s prep school,
until 1897, when the trustees sold it to the Council.
Tonbridge Castle Visitor Information
Tonbridge Castle is open for public.
An adult ticket is £6.80, a children ticket is £3.90 and a family is
£19.50
For Group visits of min 10 person there is a 10% discount. Guided tours
must be booked in advanced.
There are audio tours available also in French, Dutch, German and Spanish.
For more information about the opening hours contact the Info Centre: Tel:
01732 770929, Email: tonbridge.castle@tmbc.gov.uk or visit the
official website.
Tonbridge Castle Map&Location
Tonbridge Castle address: 89 High St, Tonbridge TN9 1DR, United Kingdom. Get help with
directions using the map provided bellow:
View Larger Map
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