Walmer Castle and Gardens sit in an idyllic spot in Deal surrounded by lush Kent countryside and a shingle beach. It is in White Cliffs Country, which incorporates a 20 mile stretch of Kent coastline home to three English castles – Dover, Walmer and Deal.
At Walmer, you can stroll around the formal gardens and wildflower meadow before discovering The Glen, a subtropical planting area deep in the valley.
Afterwards, step inside Walmer Castle and discover the history of the Lord Wardens, which member of the Royal family frequented this castle, and which military figure died here. And if you need refreshments, pay a visit to the Lord Warden’s Tea Rooms or the Glasshouse Cafe before you leave.
Walmer Castle might not be as well-known as its neighbour, Dover Castle, but it is equally worth visiting. Its rich history and beautiful gardens make it the perfect place to spend a day out in Kent.
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How to Find Walmer Castle
Kingsdown Road, Deal, Kent, CT14 7LJ
Opening Hours 10 am -5 pm
Admission Adult £13.90 / Child (5-17) £8.40
Free Admission to English Heritage Members – Click here to join
Free parking on-site is available or opposite in the English Heritage beach car park (fees apply)
Things to See in Walmer Castle and Gardens
Inside Walmer Castle
Cross the drawbridge at Walmer Castle to discover stories of its previous occupants.
See the Wellington Room, where the Duke of Wellington took his final breath and find out why the Queen Mother was a regular visitor to Walmer Castle.
The Broadwalk
Herbaceous borders are packed with delightful flowers and bordered by a yew hedge called the Cloud Hedge.
Its undulating form is similar to the hedge found at Doddington Place Gardens in Faversham, Kent.
Queen Mothers Garden
A beautiful and tranquil area with the backdrop of the castle turrets.
The centrepiece of the Queen Mother’s Garden is a beautiful pond with fish and water lilies.
Wooden benches placed around the border give lovely views across the garden.
Kitchen Garden
Fresh produce is grown in the “Kitchen Garden” and served in the Lord Warden’s Tea-Rooms, and the Glasshouse Cafe.
Stroll around and take some time to see and smell the delights on offer.
The Paddock
Take a walk through the wildflower meadow and enjoy nature at its finest.
The Glen
Take the steps down into the Glen to discover a sub-tropical garden of palms and ferns interspersed with wooden sculptures.
Nature Trail
Look out for nature information boards.
Each one details different birds you may see and hear whilst enjoying the pathways through the castle estate.
Great for children to learn more about their environment.
Walmer Castle Cannons
A blast back to the past! Check out the medieval cannons – a reminder that the castle was a defence post protecting the Kent coast.
Cross the road, and you will find a pebble beach and walking and cycling paths along the coast to Dover Castle and Deal Castle.
You will have a wonderful time at Walmer Castle, and if you want to continue your day in Kent, then why not head to Samphire Hoe Country Park, Dover Castle or spend time on one of the many beautiful beaches in Kent?
