Allington Castle

Heritage Site in Kent Maidstone

England

Allington Castle

Foot crossing on the Medway Valley Walk The Medway Valley Line was built in two stages by the South Eastern Railway. The first stage opened in 1844 was from Paddock Wood following the Medway Valley to Maidstone. In 1856 the line was extended down the Medway Valley to the North Kent Line at Strood (which had opened in 1847).

This foot crossing is on the latter section and carries the Medway Valley Walk across the line. The next station in this direction is Maidstone Barracks. An old siding to Allington leads off on the right. — Foot crossing on the Medway Valley Walk Credit: Marathon

Allington Castle is a historic fortress located in Allington, near Maidstone, Kent, England. This medieval castle is a Grade I listed building and has been recognized as a heritage site for its architectural and historical significance.

The castle dates back to the 12th century and was originally built by Sir Stephen de Penchester. Over the centuries, it has undergone several modifications and expansions, resulting in its current appearance. The castle stands on the banks of the River Medway, surrounded by a moat, and is accessed through a stone bridge.

The architecture of Allington Castle is a mix of medieval and Tudor styles. The main structure consists of a rectangular keep with four corner towers. The exterior features stone walls and large windows, while the interior boasts grand halls, a courtyard, and a beautiful chapel. The castle's original medieval features, including the drawbridge and portcullis, have been preserved and add to its historical charm.

Throughout its history, Allington Castle has been owned by various notable families, including the Wyatt, Astley, and the Duke of Manchester. It has also been visited by prominent figures such as King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.

Today, the castle is privately owned and not open to the public. However, it can be admired from the outside during special events or guided tours. Allington Castle stands as a reminder of Kent's rich medieval heritage and continues to captivate visitors with its impressive architecture and historical significance.

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Allington Castle Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.288/0.517 or Grid Reference TQ7557. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Foot crossing on the Medway Valley Walk

The Medway Valley Line was built in two stages by the South Eastern Railway. The first stage opened in 1844 was from Paddock Wood following the Medway Valley to Maidstone. In 1856 the line was extended down the Medway Valley to the North Kent Line at Strood (which had opened in 1847). This foot crossing is on the latter section and carries the Medway Valley Walk across the line. The next station in this direction is Maidstone Barracks. An old siding to Allington leads off on the right.

Marathon

View from a foot crossing on The Medway Valley Walk

The Medway Valley Line was built in two stages by the South Eastern Railway. The first stage opened in 1844 was from Paddock Wood following the Medway Valley to Maidstone. In 1856 the line was extended down the Medway Valley to the North Kent Line at Strood (which had opened in 1847). This foot crossing is on the latter section and carries the Medway Valley Walk across the line. The next station in this direction is Aylesford. The bridge just ahead carries the M20 over the line.

Marathon

Foot crossing on the Medway Valley Walk

The Medway Valley Line was built in two stages by the South Eastern Railway. The first stage opened in 1844 was from Paddock Wood following the Medway Valley to Maidstone. In 1856 the line was extended down the Medway Valley to the North Kent Line at Strood (which had opened in 1847). This foot crossing is on the latter section and carries the Medway Valley Walk across the line. The next station to the right is Maidstone Barracks and to the left is Aylesford.

Marathon

The Medway Valley Walk

The Medway Valley Walk in the centre of Maidstone passes under the railway, just west of Maidstone East station, ahead. The line from Otford to Maidstone East was opened on 1st June 1874 by the London, Chatham & Dover Railway.

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Elephant on the Medway Valley Walk

This is at the end of Lock Lane near Allington Lock. There were 51 of these 'Elmer's sculptures' in the area and they were to be shortly auctioned off to raise money for the Heart of Kent Hospice.

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The Medway Valley Walk crosses the M20

The Medway Valley Walk has come up from Allington Lock before crossing the Medway Valley Line and here crosses the M20 Motorway. The North Downs can be seen in the distance.

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Brewer Street, Maidstone

Nigel Thompson

Railway bridge, A20

The A20 runs from the London Borough of Lewisham to Dover, Kent. It runs through the major towns of Maidstone, Ashford and Folkestone, terminating at the port of Dover.

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Mast

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Entering Maidstone, A20

The A20 runs from the London Borough of Lewisham to Dover, Kent. It runs through the major towns of Maidstone, Ashford and Folkestone, terminating at the port of Dover.

Old Maidstone sign

The Orchards

Dfs, A20

The Thomas Wyatt

Premier Inn

Premier Inn is the largest Hotel chain in the UK, with over 600 budget hotels. Website: Link

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Hildenborough Close

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A20 The A20 runs from the London Borough of Lewisham to Dover, Kent. It runs through the major towns of Maidstone, Ashford and Folkestone, terminating at the port of Dover.

A20

The A20 runs from the London Borough of Lewisham to Dover, Kent. It runs through the major towns of Maidstone, Ashford and Folkestone, terminating at the port of Dover.

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