Update
The interiors of the castle are closed as we prepare for a major conservation project. Tickets prices are reduced during the closure, and your discount will be applied automatically when you check out. There’s still plenty to discover at the castle. Eight acres of award-winning gardens are open for you to explore, along with the tearoom, café, shop and second-hand bookshop.

Walmer Castle in Deal has a rich history that dates back to Henry VIII, who built it between 1539-40 in response to threats of invasion from Europe, and it was part of a nearly 3-mile coastal barrier that included Deal Castle and Sandown Castle. This English Heritage property, set in 8 acres, was under siege by the Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil Wars in the 17th Century and by the mid-18th century had become a well-equipped seaside retreat as well as a fort. Over time, the castle’s military use declined, and by 1750, the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports had taken over the castle as his official residence. The Castle continued to be the residence of famous names over the centuries, including Prime Minister William Pitt, the Duke of Wellington, and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
Visit the private rooms of the Lord Warden and see where the Queen Mother stayed during her visits. Feel the Duke of Wellington's spirit living on in his former bedroom at Walmer Castle. You can see the armchair in which he died and his campaign bed in this room. There are extensive gardens to explore, including the restored parts, such as the previously inaccessible chalk quarry Glen Garden. Reached by the winding Woodland Walk, with secret surprises and amazing, creative play spaces for children. Explore more with guided tours, plus theatre events and seasonal children's activities, including their Folktale Creature Trails. They also host member events. several wellbeing events, including yoga, arts & crafts, writing, meditation and lots more. For full details, see their Wellbeing at Walmer page.

What's On at Walmer Castle
To find our listings for what's on at the castle, simply click on events under the main image.

Opening Hours
1st and 2nd January
10am-5pm
3rd January to 15th February
Saturday and Sunday: 10am-4pm
16th to 22nd Feburary : Daily: 10am-5pm
25th February to 26th March: Wednesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm
27th March: 10am-4pm
26th March to 9th July: Daily: 10am-5pm
13th July to 24th October: Daily: 10am-5pm
25th October 1st November: 10am-4pm
7th to November to 20th December: Weekends, 10am-4pm
27th December to 3rd January: Daily, 10am-4pm
Last Entry
1 hour before closing.

Walmer Castle Tour Times
Tudor Tours: Daily, 11am and 2pm
Garden History Tours : Wednesday, 2.30pm
Wildlife Walks: Most Thursdays, 11.30am

Price - during renovations
English Heritage Member: Free
Online prices - from:
Adult: £11.41
Child - 5 to 17 years: £5.67
Child - under 5 years: Free
Concession - Student/Over 65 years: £10.78
Family - 1 adult + up to 3 children: £17.15
Family - 2 adults + up to 3 children: £28.63
Memberships and overseas visitor passes are available
Top Ticket Tip
Tickets on the day will be higher than these online prices. Prices vary during the year.

Accessibility
The castle and moat are accessible by stairs only. Broadwalk, Queen Mother's Garden, and Woodland Walk are accessible via smooth gravel pathways. The kitchen garden contains some pathways and some slightly uneven ground. Meadow contains steps and some lightly uneven ground. Glen features a viewing area for wheelchair users. Wheelchair and mobility scooter loans are available.
Sensory Packs: These free-to-borrow backpacks contain tools such as fidget widgets, plush toys, and ear defenders to help manage sensory input and reduce stress. If you'd like to reserve a backpack, contact them via email at [email protected] or click the call now button under the main image above

Train
Walmer station - 1 mile.

Bus
82/82A.

Parking
Members: Free
Non-members: Charges apply.

Facilities
Cafe • Shop • Toilet • Disabled Toilet • Bicycle Racks

Picture Credit: © English Heritage.

See Kent, Know Kent
🌹 Discover this part of South Kent with our guide to Deal & Dover under our Area Guides in Kent menu, or browse the sections below to plan your perfect time in the Garden of England.

🏛️  Things to do in Kent: Explore our listings for more attractions and activities.
🎭  What's On in Kent: Check our events menu for the latest updates.
💡  Ideas & Inspiration: Don’t miss our features and themed articles.
🦒  Top Guides to Kent: Uncover our tips on top attractions, best festivals, adventure activities, animal experiences and much more in the Garden of England.
❄️ Seasonal Spotlight: From Easter and school holiday adventures to Halloween and festive family fun.
📧 Sign up for the Free See Kent Newsletter.