Address: 13 Bank St, Tonbridge TN9 1HW
Location & History
Tonbridge Castle is a 13th-century castle situated in Tonbridge, Kent, England. Following the Norman conquest, Richard Fitz Gilbert was granted land to guard the crossing of the River Medway. Over the centuries, Fitz gilbert's simple fortification grew to be a massive stone structure, which was added to and remodelled many times throughout its history. The site was purchased by the local council in 1900, who made the grounds a public park.
What's there?
Tonbridge Castle is located in the centre of town, overlooking the River Medway. The gatehouse is still standing, as well as some of the castle walls. You can also see the motte as well as the castle mound.
Inside the castle grounds there is an open green, ideal for picnics, and a path that circles the park. You can also access the river from the castle grounds, with plenty of benches, and a view over the water.
On site, there's a café, gift shop and public toilets. There is a lot to see with free entry, but they also offer guided tours of the inside as well.
Accessibility
With two car parks nearby, you won't have to walk too far to enter the grounds. Around the green there are plenty of benches, so you don't have to worry about finding a place to stop and rest if you struggle to walk long distances. Tonbridge Castle has level paths with small slopes, making it accessible for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. The public toilets are next to the Castle Grounds Car Park, 50 metres from the castle entrance.
Parking
The Upper Castle Field Car Park is pay-and-display, and free for visitors with a blue badge. The car park has two disabled parking spaces. The distance from this car park to the castle is around 50 metres.
Pay and display charges:
up to 30 mins 70p
up to 1 hour £1.40
up to 2 hours £2.80
up to 3 hours £4.20
up to 4 hours £5.60
additional hours at £2.80 per hour
RingGo code: 51190
The Castle Grounds Car Park is small but right outside the castle entrance. There are 4 blue badge parking spaces.
Conclusion
Overall, Tonbridge is a great place to visit for lunch or a picnic. With two car parks nearby, and level paths, the castle is accessible for visitors of all abilities.
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