English Heritage

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.

All events are managed by Medway Council, please visit their website for further information.