Top 4 Castles around Upper Hardres
Best castles around Upper Hardres are situated within the historical landscape of Kent, offering a glimpse into centuries of local heritage. While Upper Hardres is known for historical sites like Hardres Court, a former manor house, the surrounding area provides access to significant historical architecture. The region features a mix of fortified structures, historical settlements, and ancient churches. Visitors can explore various landmarks that reflect the area's rich past.
Best castles around Upper Hardres
- The most popular castles is Chilham Square, a historical site that features a picturesque Kentish village with an impressive castle behind the square. Many of its buildings are Grade listed and timbered, making it a notable location.
- Another must-see spot is Westgate Towers, a man-made monument and medieval gatehouse. This 18-meter high west gate is the largest surviving city gate in England, built around 1379 from Kentish ragstone.
- Visitors also love Canterbury City Centre, a historical settlement and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and features historical sites like Canterbury Castle.
- Upper Hardres is known for historical sites, fortified gatehouses, and settlements with castle remnants. The area offers a variety of historical structures to see and explore, from medieval city gates to former manor houses and village squares with castle connections.
- The castles around Upper Hardres are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Westgate Towers
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Canterbury City Centre
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Chilham Square
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Tonford Manor — fortified house
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Featuring four towers and numerous additions and alteration since it was first built, Henry VII even stayed here with Katherine of Aragon.
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Tips from the Community
Canterbury city centre is a historic, compact medieval city with its famous cathedral, surrounded by ancient city walls, offering many pedestrian zones and historic landmarks such as the Westgate Towers; it is a vibrant mix of well-known shopping brands, independent boutiques, pubs, restaurants and historic sites such as St. Augustine's Abbey and the oldest church in the world, St. Martin's Church.
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Well worth the minor detour off the surrounding cycle routes to see the picturesque square, with views of the Castle, plus the excellent White Horse pub and an excellent tearoom.
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Some nice historic buildings and heritage, but the level of traffic, means you constantly have to be alert.
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These persons all of Kent were examined at the same time with Mr Bland and Shetterden, by Thornton, bishop of Dover, Dr Harpsfield, and others. These six martyrs and witnesses of the truth were consigned to the flames in Canterbury, at the end of August 1555.
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A manor house fortified in the 15th century after Sir Thomas Browne, the Comptroller and Treasurer to King Henry VI, was granted a licence to crenellate in 1448. There are 4 towers on the western side and between the 2 northerly towers a timber-framed house has since been built, later refaced with red brick in the 18th century. It is likely that the missing three other curtain walls also had a similar design with towers to produce a square form. On the south-west side the 15th century gatehouse built of flint with a stone arch still stands.
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I’d avoid the tea and scones and go straight for the local ale or larger on a hot day!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there traditional castles directly within Upper Hardres?
While Upper Hardres is rich in history, it does not feature traditional fortified castles. The primary historical site is Hardres Court, which was a significant manor house, not a castle. For actual castles, you'll need to explore the surrounding Kent area.
What historical sites related to castles can I visit near Upper Hardres?
You can explore several historical sites with castle connections. Visit Chilham Square, a picturesque village with an impressive castle behind the square. Don't miss Westgate Towers in Canterbury, the largest surviving medieval city gate in England. Also, Canterbury City Centre itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring historical sites like Canterbury Castle. For a fortified house, consider Tonford Manor, which was fortified in the 15th century.
What is the significance of Hardres Court in Upper Hardres?
Hardres Court was the manor house of the Hardres family for 700 years. It holds historical significance due to its former residents and a reported visit by King Henry VIII. While not a castle, it represents a deep historical root in the area.
Are there family-friendly historical sites or castle-related attractions near Upper Hardres?
Yes, several sites are family-friendly. Chilham Square offers a charming village setting with a castle backdrop. Westgate Towers and Canterbury City Centre, with its cathedral and historical sites, are also great for families to explore.
What outdoor activities can I do near these historical sites and castles?
The area around Upper Hardres offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like 'Stelling Minnis to Spong Woods loop' or 'Hiking loop from Petham'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking routes such as 'Westgate Towers – Chilham Square loop' and MTB trails like 'North Downs Way & King's Wood loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and MTB trails guide for Upper Hardres.
Are there hiking trails that incorporate historical sites or castles near Upper Hardres?
Yes, many hiking routes in the region allow you to explore historical areas. For instance, the 'Westgate Towers – Chilham Square loop' for gravel biking connects two significant historical highlights. While specific hiking routes directly incorporating castles are not detailed, many trails pass through or near historical villages and sites. Check the hiking guide for Upper Hardres for options.
What do visitors enjoy most about the historical sites around Upper Hardres?
Visitors frequently praise the picturesque nature of places like Chilham Square, noting its perfect postcard location and impressive castle backdrop. The historical significance and well-preserved architecture of sites like Westgate Towers and the overall historical atmosphere of Canterbury City Centre are also highly appreciated.
Are there pubs or cafes near the historical sites around Upper Hardres?
Yes, particularly in places like Chilham Square, you'll find pubs and cafes, including Shelley's Tea Rooms. Canterbury City Centre also offers a wide array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
What is the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Upper Hardres known for?
The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Upper Hardres has Norman origins, featuring a tower with two Norman pillars and a Norman font. It also contains memorials to the Hardres family, including a unique 1628 memorial made of Bethersden marble, making it a significant local historical and architectural site.
What is the best time of year to visit the historical sites and castles near Upper Hardres?
The historical sites and surrounding areas can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the villages and outdoor routes. Autumn provides beautiful scenery, while winter visits can offer a quieter, more atmospheric experience, especially in historical city centers like Canterbury.
Is it possible to see castle remnants or fortified structures from public footpaths?
Yes, for example, from public footpaths, you can view the remains of Tonford Manor, a fortified house with its 15th-century gatehouse still standing, offering a glimpse into its past.
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