The castle was one of several locations used for the E! A gatehouse, incorporating the remains of the original manor house from which the castle developed, stands on the north-west side. You will need to check if they have a visit during your stay. It is not open to the public The only remains of the original castle is a section of wall and the kitchen fireplace built in 1174. The main entrance gateway was close to the junction of Cowbridge Road East and Cathedral Road, from which an avenue of lime trees lead northwards to a lake at the northern end of the park. Hotels near Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats, Hotels near Borough Green and Wrotham Station, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Maidstone, Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks in Maidstone, Game & Entertainment Centres in Maidstone, Three Island Tour from Split (Shipwreck, Blue Lagoon, Maslinica) LUNCH INCLUDED, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Sedona, Ocean Empress Dinner Cruise Dubai Including Pickup and Drop off, Arrival Meet & Assist service at Delhi Airport with optional Private transfer, View all hotels near Allington Castle on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Allington Castle on Tripadvisor, View all attractions near Allington Castle on Tripadvisor. In 1905 he approached the distinguished mountaineer and cartographer Sir William Martin Conway (later Lord Conway), who he had heard was looking to buy an old castle or manor house. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. The castle entered a state of decay that was accelerated by fires, neglect and vandalism, until it was largely ruined by the start of the 20th century. We walked by the river from Maidstone to Aylesford, a town far prettier than Maidstone, and back (about 16kms). This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. For nearly 50 years, the castle was the home of a Carmelite convent. This was used for many years to stage large entertainment functions and shows, though its last function was a night club. After one email exchange I asked to make a booking on the weekend and the email was ignored as well as my telephone message. To quote Lord Conway as he first saw itthe site in 1905 'its walls and fine visible towers were buried in ivy most of its moat had been filled in there were neither floors nor roofs '. An early 17th-century lessee named John Best pulled down the battlements and added a half-timbered gabled second storey to the east and west wings as a replacement for the fire-damaged areas of the castle. The castle is stunning and reminds me a lot of Hever but arguably with more medieval features. Twilight Wedding Ceremony from 4:30 pm to 6 pm in the Great Hall with up to 100 guests and garden access for photographs. Allington Castle is not open to the public - so the only way to get a glimpse of this stunning building is from the River Park. Evening receptions take place in our beautifully restored 17th-century barn as the lit-up castle provides a stunning backdrop to the festivities. What restaurants are near Allington Castle? . Any, Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks, All Saints The Parish Church of Maidstone. We WANT to work with you to make your dreams come true. In addition, our exquisite parterres, manicured lawns and fountain present a more traditional, elegant setting for capturing unforgettable wedding photographs. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. A lovely beautiful tour of the castle. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. These thriving ecosystems reflect our dedication to preserving the castles natural surroundings. The gatehouse and the Penchester wing had been completely restored and most of the old keep had been completed as well. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The strip of land between the avenue and the Cathedral Road properties is grassed over. It is NOT open to the public. We want your special day to be memorable and enjoyable, which is why we take care of the details so you can focus on creating memories that will last a lifetime. Further renovations were undertaken to provide accommodation and facilities for the castle's inhabitants. Will be recommending this place to friends and family. It is on the south bank of the River Medway. Recommended. Jackie was very lovely. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Alternatively, National Express operates a bus from Stratford City Bus Station to King Street 5 times a day. Fabulous location, wonderful organisation and great food. It was replaced by a manor house, which was fortified with royal permission in the 13th century. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. The castle was the site of the filming of the 1975 children's movie Robin Hood Junior, produced by the Children's Film Foundation (CFF) and starring Keith Chegwin as young Robin. Both tour guides were very knowledgable and friendly. I went on a trip arranged through the Kentish Lady River Tours. We offer a range of amenities to make the filming process as smooth as possible, including: In addition to being a castle film location, Allington Castle can also be used as a stately home and haunted property for spooky productions. Located in a glassed-off area of the barn, guests can sit down and relax without feeling separated from the party. The river walk was very good, though. Our on-site events company have plenty of extra props and items available for hire, such as a candy cart, cake cart, lockable gift box, outdoor furniture, lanterns etc. The staff on the Kentish lady were also lovely and do anything they can to help. Traffic noise however does mar the peace of the place. The buildings in the south-east corner were occupied by kitchens and a buttery with rooms above. Photo: Prioryman, CC BY-SA 4.0. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your wedding unforgettable! Most of its moat had been filled in, but its reflection lay upon the calm face of the remaining fragment. These features are shown on the 1:2500 scale Ordnance Survey plans dated 1901, which also show the presence of a bandstand north of the fountain and a bowling green in the older portion of the park, the latter being still extant. As the park grew considerably in size at the very start of the 20 th century, it caused an uprising of local peasants who wanted the terrain to remain a grassland for . The Great Hall also features a minstrel gallery, perfect for harpists, string quartets, jazz, blues, or swing ensembles, taking advantage of the amazing acoustics. From these gates a wide avenue of lime trees heads north-north-east to Sophia Close. You'll then be taken to a map showing results. "The Public Parks and Recreation Grounds of Cardiff". Unlike many other venues, we include a range of cost-saving things to ensure that your day is as stress-free as possible. Various alterations . The barn, which can be used as a resting and eating place for crews and cast. Get your early bird discount! "English Castles in the Early Middle Ages: Their Number, Location, and Legal Position", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Allington_Castle&oldid=1136946388, This page was last edited on 2 February 2023, at 00:15. The latter was once occupied by buildings against the south curtain wall and appears to have been the site of the first castle on the site, judging by the remains of foundations discovered during Conway's restoration work. Adjacent to Cowbridge Road there is still a small area of grass with some trees. Please note that catering is not included in the package prices. Our castle, with its manicured gardens, fountains, great hall, long gallery, battlements, portcullis, moat, castle towers, and fairy-tale charm, provides a unique and versatile atmosphere for your castle film shoot. [12] Conway and his daughter Agnes, an archaeologist, also undertook extensive research into the history of the castle. The property was developed into a fortified compound with six towers at irregular intervals along the curtain wall and domestic buildings in the interior, including one of the first long galleries built in England. #12 Allington Castle Kent, England T he first Allington Castle was built about 1140 by William de Warenne, 2nd Earl of Surrey. It was replaced by a manor house, which was fortified with royal permission in the 13th century. Please visit our catering partner Invicta Food Design. The staff on the Kentish lady were also lovely and do anything they can to help. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. It is a grade I listed building and is used as a wedding venue, though there is no public access other than occasional tours involving trips from Maidstone town centre on the Kentish Lady river boat. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. However, the restoration programme was halted when funds became exhausted (unlike Hever where they did not). document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. As an upmarket wedding venue, Allington Castle provides a romantic and luxurious setting for your special day. Allington Castle is exclusively opening the gates to this private residence on Sunday 23rd June for Heart of Kent. The first castle on the site was an unauthorised fortification, built during "The Anarchy" (11351153) and torn down later in the century when royal control was reasserted. Will be recommending this place to friends and family. To preserve a clean and smoke-free environment, we permit smoking and vaping only in two designated areas. Kent's Most Exclusive Wedding Venue and Film Location. [8] He was able to draw on his own and his wife's wealth, and his efforts were also supported by his wife's wealthy stepfather, a businessman named Manton Marble. Visited by Henry 8th, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth 1st and Cardinal Wolsey among others it is now a private residence and (unfortunately) is not open to the public, but it can be hired as a wedding venue and for film shoots. Allington Castle is a private residence. [15], Allington Castle takes the form of an irregular parallelogram with a curtain wall incorporating six round towers of various sizes. Our evening reception package includes tables and chairs, a resident club-standard DJ, a rustic dance floor, rustic LOVE lights, a candy cart, a state-of-the-art photo booth, lawn games for the kids, and even barrels and umbrellas. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Please contact us using the contact form at the bottom of this page to ask questions or arrange a viewing. The area had always been at risk of flooding, serious floods having occurred in the 20th century in 1927, the 1960s and 1979; the latter prompted the instigation of an extensive flood protection scheme in 1982, when the present day river banks were engineered. Please use our online form below to contact us, and if you wish to submit a non-disclosure agreement for signing before discussing your project, you can say this in the message box, and we will be happy to sign one and return it before discussions take place. Please contact us if you cannot find a package that suits your requirements. 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Allington Castle has a rich history of hosting film and television shoots, including: Whether you are looking for a castle film location, a stately home, or haunted property, Allington Castle is a perfect choice. Welcome to Allington Castle A Historic Kent Castle and Upmarket Wedding Venue, Today, Allington Castle is a beautifully restored example of a medieval dwelling with stunning gardens, towers, and a breathtaking courtyard. Allington Castle (Maidstone): All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. The first castle on the site was an unauthorised fortification, built during "The Anarchy" (1135-1153) and t orn down later in the century when royal control was reasserted. Delve into our pages to discover all we offer, from one of Kents best film locations to our luxurious upmarket wedding venue services. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. [8] Conway had posted an advertisement in The Times stating: "Wanted to purchase, an old manor-house or abbey, built in the 16th century or earlier. Allington Castle is a stunning and versatile location for film and television shoots, situated in the heart of Kent, near London and the South East of England. It took our breath away, and for a moment we were speechless. Your email address will not be published. Important information. After one email exchange I asked to make a booking on the weekend and the email was ignored as well as my telephone message. Allington Castle Castle Road Near River Medway, Maidstone ME16 0ND England, $$ - $$$ Quick Bites British Vegetarian Friendly, $ British Grill Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Bar British Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Steakhouse British Gluten Free Options. It doesn't matter whether you would like uninterrupted sessions or a full day of activities with tours of the castle and gardens; we can meet most of your needs. The barns ambience, combined with this spaces convenience, makes for a truly special experience. Original manuscript version consulted. Visited the castle on a Kentish Lady boat trip from Maidstone. Both tour guides were very knowledgable and friendly. The castle is also surrounded by beautifully restored gardens, featuring ornamental ponds and fountains, Italian gardens, Lavender walk, rose arbor with temple and a walled Tiltyard garden. Allington Castle is a stunning and versatile location for film and television shoots, situated in the heart of Kent, near London and the South East of England. We are committed to being a diverse and welcoming venue for all couples, proudly celebrating love in all its forms, and are happy to offer a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ weddings and civil partnerships. Allington Castle is not open to the public so the only way to get a glimpse of this stunning building is from the River Park. 1. [12], Lord Conway died in 1937, whereupon Agnes inherited Allington Castle. [8], Much of the restoration had been completed by the start of the First World War in 1914. [8] The Bests were Catholics and used a room in the east tower as their private chapel. After Agnes died in 1950 the castle was sold by her husband to the Order of Carmelites from the nearby Aylesford Priory at a price of 15,000, and it became the home of a community of Carmelite Friars from March 1951. Our knowledgeable tour guides, Adrian and Jacqui, bring stories to life as they share the castles rich history. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Visited the castle on a Kentish Lady boat trip from Maidstone. It also showed there to be an island at the northern end of the lake upon which there was a boat house. It subsequently passed to the Cobham family (Cobhams seem to be everywhere in Kent) and thence to the Wyatt family in the 15th century. Allington Castle and Gardens have been used in both Series 8 and 9 of Horrible Histories, playing a variety of historical locations, including Samuel Pepys home, The Tower of London, The Palace of Versailles, and a Tudor Castle. In 1281 the present stone castle was built, which was converted to a mansion in the 15th century. 99% of travelers recommend this experience. The two guides were very informative and kept the group engaged. We work closely with local chefs who can cater for anything from a simple buffet to three-course formal dining. Kent's Most Exclusive Wedding Venue and Film Location, Your email address will not be published. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Fabulous location, wonderful organisation and great food. Allington Castle. 1926 revised 1933-4, Vol I, p38-53. Our outstanding garden team, led by Head Gardener Adrian and his skilled team members Jacqui and Alec, diligently maintain our enchanting, sustainable garden and conduct our private tours. Search for the name, locality, period or a feature of a locality. The layout was planned by the architect Alexander Roos. It took the form of a moated mound (possibly a motte and bailey) built on a site adjoining a bend in the River Medway about one mile (1.6km) north of Maidstone. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. The Western Mail, Tuesday, September 22, 1891, reported that up to 15,000 people attended the first performance. As a private residence not open to the general public, we delight in offering invited guests a distinctive and memorable experience when they book an event with us. Allington Castle is a private residence. Let Allington Castle provide the perfect setting for your fairytale wedding, surrounded by eco-friendly gardens and a commitment to sustainable practices. Visited by Henry 8th, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth 1st and Cardinal Wolsey among others it is now a private residence and (unfortunately) is not open to the public, but it can be hired as a wedding venue and for film shoots. The castle was then purchased by Sir Martin Conway, who partially restored it. According to Pettigrew, Sophia Gardens was first noted as a public walk for Cardiff around 1857 and opened in 1858. more, Call the Midwife Location Tour in Chatham, Private Day Tour to Historic Hever Castle from London, Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Cliffs of Dover Custom Day Trip, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle & White Cliffs Guided Day Tour from London, Early Access Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Greenwich from London, Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour to vineyards and castles in Kent, Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Salisbury Cathedral, Private Day Tour to Chartwell House from London, Leeds Castle Admission - Ultimate Explorer Tickets, Private Day Tour to Beautiful Leeds Castle, Kent, from London, Full-Day Tudor Tour to Hampton Court Palace and Hever Castle from London, Village Grill @ Village Hotel - Maidstone, Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. The banqueting hall and main apartments stood against the east curtain wall. The few dwellings around the castle had a population of 49 in 1841. See our packages on our wedding page. 99% of travellers recommend this experience. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. If youre lucky, you may see one. Some pretty good surprises on the way. Please let us know if you have any further questions or would like to discuss your filming project in more detail. Please enquire. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Allington castle tour with the kentish lady. As a result of fire damage in the late 16th century, it was abandoned until 1905. The future of Allington now seems assured. Each area was planted with areas of mixed deciduous and conifer trees. It was Cardiff's and Wales' first public park. You need too use Kentish Lady to be able to access this, this adds enjoyment to the trip, cruise up the river, visit caste and cake and hot drink on the return journey. We weren't lucky. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. IMPORTANT NOTE BEFORE CONTACTING US FOR SMALL PRIVATE TOURS: To ensure the safety and security of all staff and visitors, it is necessary for at least one person in the tour group to provide a copy of their basic DBS check, which can be obtained at https://www.gov.uk/request-copy-criminal-record. $$ - $$$ Quick Bites British Vegetarian Friendly, $ British Grill Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Bar British Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Steakhouse British Gluten Free Options. Philip Tilden (see Chilham Castle/Port Lympne) was asked to landscape the grounds, which at the time of purchase were 'like a rural slum with ramshackle buildings all along the river'. It subsequently became a centre for ecumenical work with the monastic community at Aylesford taking on responsibility for running it. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. There was a church . The Castle was the site of filming the 1965 episode Castle Death of The Avengers TV series. The only remains of the original castle is a section of wall and the kitchen fireplace built in 1174. In the past, it was used as a war polygon, a graveyard and a nursery garden. Kent's Most Exclusive Wedding Venue and Film Location. Steeped in history and charm, our medieval castle provides an unforgettable backdrop for elegant civil weddings and civil partnerships, drawing couples from surrounding towns in Kent and beyond. It consists of a 200 yard long yew walk running north-west south-east with a circular basin pool (pool now rather choked with weeds) at the north-west end. Tickets cost 13 - 19 and the journey takes 1h 45m. Located in Maidstone the castle is privately-owned and sits in 42 acres of beautiful countryside and woodlands. Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Maidstone, Kent, Allington Castle offers a stunning and unique setting for your special day. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. 07920832611. We only were able to take a glance of one of the gates from the river. See our packages on our, Our dedicated team members include Will, our maintenance expert, who works tirelessly to keep the castle running smoothly. You can find out more about . State of the Art Magic Mirror photo-booth. Our commitment to sustainable garden development alongside our manicured parterres has created a beautiful, environmentally conscious haven that enchants our visitors. Cash bar on site. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Kent's Most Exclusive Wedding Venue and Film Location. A fantastic experience to see the castle at Allington and its wonderful gardens. Disappointing customer service. The cheapest way to get from Strood to Allington Castle costs only 4, and the quickest way takes just 18 mins. The range dividing the two courtyards contains the Long Gallery on the upper floor, with offices below. https://www.gov.uk/request-copy-criminal-record. A large lake split by a causeway leads up to the entrance. [1] The plotters had held their first meeting at the castle before marching to London; after the rebellion had been crushed, many of the failed rebels were imprisoned in the castle. The castle was then purchased by Sir Martin Conway, who partially restored it. No sign of any castle could be seen (though we were evidently close up to the Medway) till we turned a corner, and there it was near at hand. Allington castle tour with the kentish lady. Any, Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks, All Saints The Parish Church of Maidstone. The castle can be seen from Allington Path the stretch of towpath betweenthe marina and the lock. Together with Pontcanna and Llandaff Fields, which opened later, Sophia Gardens forms a huge public open space in the heart of Cardiff, mirrored on the east bank of the river Taff by Bute Park. At some stage in the early-20th century the lake was filled in. Cardiff Local Studies Library. It was replaced by a manor house, which was fortified with royal permission in the 13th century. A popular choice for music videos and pop videos. The first castle on the site was an unauthorised fortification, built during "The Anarchy" (1135-1153) and torn down later in the century when royal control was reasserted.