English Heritage

From magnificent Castles to Roman Forts, Kent's English Heritage attractions make for a perfect day out. Here are just a few of our favourite places for you to visit.

Take a step back in time and discover the magnificent Dover Castle.  Known as the Key to England, Dover Castle has been in our nation's first line of defence for centuries, guarding our shores from invasion for 2000 years. Today you can even visit the Secret Wartime Tunnels telling the story of the Dunkirk evacuation. Whilst exploring the beautiful Dover district be sure to head to Richborough Roman Fort and witness both the beginning and almost the end of Roman rule. With a fantastic museum for you to explore and the huge stone walls which mark the site of the Saxon Shore fortress, it is sure to be a brilliant day out.

Along the coast, you'll find beautiful Deal Castle, a fortress once built to protect England from European invasion. Whilst in Walmer a visit to Walmer Castle makes for a perfect day out. Originally a Tudor Fortress, Walmer Castle has evolved into a homely residence for many well-known names from the Duke of Wellington to the Queen Mother.

Experience medieval England through virtual reality at St Augustine’s Abbey and see how the ornate St Augustine's Abbey once stood in the stunning location of Canterbury.

Once the the home of Charles Darwin, at Down House you can learn the history of Darwin and his family. Explore the study where he wrote 'On the Origin of Species' or tour the family home. 

Discover a day out like no other with a visit to the Lullingstone Roman Villa, set in the beautiful surroundings of the Darrent Valley. Discover how the villa's wealthy owners lived and learn about what luxury living meant in the mid-4^th century. 

Situated on the banks of the River Medway, Upnor Castle is set in a picturesque village backed by rolling, wooded hills. Upnor Castle was originally built on the orders of Queen Elizabeth I in 1559 as a gun fort to defend her warships at anchor in the reaches of the Medway and Chatham Dockyard. While just downstream you'll find the magnificent Rochester Castle, one of the best preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England.

Become an English Heritage member and gain unlimited access more than 400 historic places for a whole year.