Upnor Castle Castles
This attractive, turreted castle is set in a picturesque village area that is backed by rolling, wooded hills. The castle is fronted by a water bastion jutting out into the River Medway.
Upnor Castle was originally built in 1559 as a gun fort on the orders of Queen Elizabeth I to defend her warships at anchor in the reaches of the Medway and Chatham Dockyard.
Although the castle was an important link in the defence line, it was not well maintained and proved ineffective when the Dutch sailed up the Medway in June 1667 to attack the dockyard under the command of Admiral de Ruyter. The Dutch met very little resistance. When they left two days later, they had destroyed or captured a large number of the Royal Navy ships anchored at Chatham.
A newly installed audio-visual interpretation in English and Dutch tells the story of this raid in graphic manner, showing how the enemy ships breached the river defences, sailing on up river to destroy and burn much of the British fleet.
The gatehouse and main body of the castle are open for viewing and a sound wand provides a personal guided tour of the site in English, French and Dutch for a nominal charge of £1.
Attraction Details
For enquiries about Upnor Castle, please contact the attraction using the details below.
Address, Upnor, Kent, ME2 4XG
Opening timesMarch 25 - September 30, 10am-6pm
Entry costs
Attraction typeCastles
Hotels near Upnor Castle
Staying overnight in Upnor?
Wondering where to stay that's close to Upnor Castle? We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs near Upnor in Upnor.
The Ship & Trades
One of the jewels in Shepherd Neames crown, The Ship & Trades is a spacious and stylish pub with accommodation overlooking a marina..
King Charles Hotel
The King Charles Hotel is located in the heart of Medway, just a 10-minute walk from Gillingham town centre and Rail Station. Free parking is also provided. Rooms at the King Charles provide en suite bathrooms, satellite TV, and hairdryers.
The Royal Victoria &
Ideally located in the centre of Rochester, The Royal Victoria & Bull Hotel offers en suite accommodation, and a bar. Free Wi-Fi is available in the onsite bar and free private parking is possible..
Brook House
Brook House offers accommodation in Chatham. Historic Chatham Dockyard is 500 metres away. Free private parking is available on site.
The Golden Lion
Featuring free WiFi throughout the property, The Golden Lion offers accommodation in Strood..
St George Hotel
With free parking and free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, St George Hotel is a 5-minute walk from Chatham Railway Station. There is a traditional restaurant, modern bedrooms and a bar with games room..
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