Walmer Castle and Gardens
Kent, England
Key facts
- Operator
- English Heritage
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass
- Nearest station
- Walmer, 0.8 miles (straight-line)
- Stays
- Overnight accommodation available
Pinpoint
Walmer Castle, Kingsdown Rd, Walmer, Deal CT14 7LJ
Telephone 01304 364288
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Visitor essentials
- Parking
- Five accessible parking spaces with drop-off at the castle entrance; free for members, non-members pay.
- Access
- The castle and moat are reached by stairs only; garden paths are smooth grass and gravel, with wheelchair and mobility scooter loans available.
- Facilities
- The gift shop includes a secondhand bookshop in the castle basement.
- Dogs
- Dogs, other than assistance dogs, are not allowed in the grounds or gardens.
- Safety
- The pond in the Queen Mother's Garden is about 3 feet deep, and there is a sheer drop from the castle bastions to the moat.
Another of Henry VIII's Device Forts, converted over the centuries into the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports - a ceremonial post held by, among others, the Duke of Wellington, who died in the castle in 1852. It's smaller than the castle name suggests, but the gardens and sea views make it a genuine family day out.
Who to know
Duke of Wellington · Lord Warden who died in the castle in 1852
Worth the trip
The gardens - reviewers rate them above the castle interior, with room to picnic and sea views from several points around the grounds.
Before you go
Book online in advance for a discount of a few pounds on entry; there are two cafes and plenty of parking, so it works well as a full day rather than a quick stop.
Reviewers are consistently positive about Walmer, with the gardens singled out repeatedly as the highlight - beautifully kept, with play areas that make it a genuine family day out. Several note the castle itself is fairly small but still worth exploring, and mention friendly, knowledgeable staff and good on-site cafes. The only recurring caveat is that entry can feel pricey for non-Heritage members, though most feel it's worth it.
Lord Warden's residence; two holiday lets
“Great for day with kids has lovely gardens, a bit pricey if you are not Heritage members. Plus side you can bring own picnic pleanty of room to sit outside and enjoy the views 😊”- Richie Rich, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Facilities
- “You can bring a picnic and settle in either the gardens or the old moat, which makes it an easy, relaxed day out.” - Tom Hester
Common questions about Walmer Castle and Gardens
Where is Walmer Castle and Gardens?
Walmer Castle and Gardens is in Kent, England, at Walmer Castle, Kingsdown Rd, Walmer, Deal CT14 7LJ.
Do you need a ticket to visit Walmer Castle and Gardens?
Yes - Walmer Castle and Gardens is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by English Heritage. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
Can you stay overnight at Walmer Castle and Gardens?
Yes - Walmer Castle and Gardens offers bookable accommodation, so you can spend the night in the castle itself or within its grounds. See the Castles You Can Sleep In guide for the full list and how each stay works.
What is the highlight of visiting Walmer Castle and Gardens?
The gardens - reviewers rate them above the castle interior, with room to picnic and sea views from several points around the grounds.
Is Walmer Castle and Gardens a ruin or still intact?
Walmer Castle and Gardens is largely intact - Lord Warden's residence; two holiday lets.
