Tonbridge Castle (Kent) in the morning sun

9 comments

Tonbridge castle is on the river Medway in the centre of this small kent town. The history of Tonbridge Castle begins with the battle of 1066, when William of Normandy invaded Sussex to seize the crown from King Harold. Amongst William’s noblemen was Richard Fitzgilbert, who had left his family and estate in Brionne to follow the conqueror. William rewarded Fitzgilbert’s loyalty and devotion with lands at Tonbridge Kent. He erected a simple Motte-and-bailey castle on the site. To dig the moat and erect the motte 50,000 tonnes of earth were moved. In 1088, the de Clare family (descendents of Fitz Gilbert) rebelled against King William II. His army besieged the castle. After holding for two days the castle fell and as punishment the king had both the castle and the town of Tonbridge burnt to the ground. The de Clares replaced the wooden castle with a stone shell keep. This was reinforced during the thirteenth century, and in 1295 a stone wall was built around the town. The twin towered gatehouse was built by Richard de Clare, sixth Earl of Hertford or his son Gilbert. Construction of the gatehouse took 30 years, being completed in 1260. The gatehouse shares many similarities with the ones at Caerphilly Castle built by Gilbert in 1268-1271. The great seal of England was temporarily kept here during one of Edwards visits to France. The mansion was added in 1793. Both castle and mansion are Grade I listed buildings. Tonbridge Castle stands in 14 acres of lovely grounds that are open free of charge to the public. Its a great place for children and picnics.

1 Apr, 2010
8 likes

Comments

Bloomer

That looks a lovely place to visit,Denise,and lovely pics.I love reading about the History of buildings.So many places to see,hope I manage some of them,sometime.:o))

1 Apr, 2010