English Heritage

1540Walmer Garrisoned

A captain, lieutenant, ten gunners, four soldiers and two porters are hired for Walmer's garrison.

1640Civil War

With the outbreak of Civil War, the three castles come under Parliamentarian control.

1649Royalist Uprising

Charles I's execution provokes uprising in Kent. Royalists occupy Sandown, Deal and Walmer and lay siege to Dover Castle, but fail to take it.

Early 18th CenturyOfficial Residence

The Duke of Dorset moves from Dover Castle to Walmer and makes it his official residence as Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports.

1714Training Ground

The Master General of Ordnance establishes land and sea ranges here for gunnery practice.

1792William Pitt

George III appoints Prime Minister William Pitt as Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. He and his niece Lady Hester Stanhope improve the gardens and grounds.

1829The Duke of Wellington

The hero of Waterloo is made Lord Warden and frequently stays at the castle. He often entertains and interacts with the local people.

1842Royal Holiday Home

Queen Victoria stays at the castle for nearly a month with Prince Albert and their children.

1852Frozen in Time

Wellington dies at Walmer. His room is displayed as it was on the day of his death.

See highlights of the collection at Walmer Castle

1865-91Granville Additions

Earl Granville is appointed Lord Warden. He and his wife improve the grounds and have extra rooms built above the gatehouse.

1891Smith's Furniture Trust

WH Smith, bookshop owner and politician, Lord Warden for only six months, sets up a trust to ensure the historical furniture remains in the castle forever.

1913-34Beauchamp Socials

As Lord Warden. Earl Beauchamp hosts annual summer parties, tennis and croquet matches and dances.

1915Wartime Retreat

Beauchamp lends Walmer to Prime Minister Asquith as a weekend retreat. Guests include Lord Kitchener, poet Rupert Brooke, author Henry James and Winston Churchill, later Lord Warden himself.

1978-2002Royal Favour

Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother stays at the castle every year, as Lord Warden. She takes a close interest in the gardens and grounds.

Learn more about Walmer Castle