Description
Originally constructed between 1539 and 1540 by Henry VIII, Sandown Castle also formed part of the King’s Device programme and was built to protect against invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire. The castle was almost identical in plan to Walmer Castle, constructed to a concentric design with a central circular tower surrounded by four lower rounded bastions, according to CastlesFortsBattles.co.uk.
In 1648-1649 after the original threat of invasion was over, Sandown was then seized by pro-Royalist insurgents during the Second English Civil War and wasn’t regained by Parliamentary forces until several months of fighting had passed. The castle remained in military use until 1863. However, during the 19th Century it suffered from coastal erosion, and then what was left of the stonework was depleted by the War Office’s orders for demolition. The remains were purchased by Deal Town and formed part of the local sea defences. In the late 1980s, the remaining masonry was encased in concrete to create a sea wall and its remains are now protected under UK law as a scheduled monument.
Opening Hours
At all times.
Price
Free.
Picture Credit: © CastlesFortsBattles.co.uk.
