Set in tranquil grounds adjoining a riverside village, this rare example of an Elizabethan artillery fort was begun in 1559 and redeveloped in 1599-1601, to protect warships moored at Chatham dockyards. Despite a brave attempt, it entirely failed to do so in 1667, when the Dutch sailed past it to burn or capture the English fleet at anchor.
Upnor Castle is open on Wednesday to Sundays from 17 April, from 10am-6pm (last admission 5.15pm) until 30 September.
Winter hours start Wednesday 2 Oct to Sunday 3rd November, 10am-4pm (closed 3.15pm).
The site is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The site is closed for the winter from 4 November to 31 March.
This site and its events are managed by Medway Council - visit their website for the castle which includes information about volunteering opportunities. Overseas Visitor Passes and English Heritage membership cannot be purchased at this site. Before visiting Upnor Castle, you may wish to join English Heritage online or by contacting our Customer Services Team on 0370 333 1181.
EVENTS
The Highlander’s at Upnor Castle
28 September 10am-4pm No additional charge for EH members
Live demonstrations, recruitment, musket drill and firing.
Queen Elizabeth I visits Upnor Castle
29 September 10am – 4pm EH members £2
Samuel Pepys visits Upnor Castle
5 October 10am – 4pm EH members £2
Lt Palmer of the Royal Engineers WW2 Bomb Disposal Unit visits Upnor Castle
24 October 10am – 4pm EH members £2
Spooky Badge & Magnet making with Artist Xtina Lamb
31 October 10am-4pm EH members £2
Guy Fawkes visits Upnor Castle
2 November 10am – 4pm EH members £2
AUTUMN TRAIL 19 Oct to 3 Nov
Pick up a free Autumn Trail when you visit Upnor Castle or Rochester Castle, complete the sheet on your visit and collect a free badge.
All events are managed by Medway Council, please visit their website for further information.
