As intimated yesterday, today we went to Walmer Castle, which has certain similarities with Deal, but some major differences. Whereas Deal has hexagonal symmetry, Walmer is far simpler, having a central tower with only four bastions surrounding it. But it was no less formidable. With Deal and Sandown Castles, Walmer was constructed in the period 1538-1540. These three castles protected the Downs, a sheltered stretch of anchorage on the eastern coastline of Kent. Sandown fell into total disrepair at the end of the nineteenth century, and was demolished for safety reasons. But Deal and Walmer are still well with us!
In 1708 Walmer Castle became the official residence of the Lords Warden of the Cinque Ports, and so has been transformed to become residential rather than defensive, and has been a favourite retreat for politicians and prime ministers. The roster of Lords Warden reads like the ultimate Who's Who ... here's a selection:
- Rt Hon William Pitt (1792-1806)
- Duke of Wellington (1829-1853)
- Rt Hon W H Smith (1891-1895)
- HRH Prince of Wales (later King George V) (1905-1907)
- Sir Winston Churchill (1941-1965)
- Sir Robert Menzies(1965-1978)
- HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother (1978-2004)
The Duke of Wellington actually died here, and his bedroom has been kept exactly as it was on that fateful day. There is a museum dedicated to him, which contains many Arthur Wellesley (Duke of Wellington) memorabilia, including an original pair of 'Wellington Boots', boots that he developed from the previous style with large 'cuffs' at the knees — Wellington had his bootmaker remove these cuffs, cutting the boots off below the knee, which was much more comfortable with the new, more tailored, trousers of the day. It was only later that a rubber manufacturer started making a looser rubber version which became known as 'Wellington boots', or 'Wellies'. But no photography was allowed inside, so you'll have to make do with the gardens.
As at Deal, flint has been incorporated into the mortar
As at Deal, flint has been incorporated into the mortar
The gardens are delightful. Many of the residents had a hand in designing or expanding the large gardens, especially William Pitt the Younger (Lord Warden, 1792-1806) and Earl Granville (Lord Warden 1865-1890), both of whom were enthusiastic garden designers. But it was for the Queen Mother that the final feminine touch was added to the gardens. There is a small, secluded formal garden near the castle that is her legacy to the site. The gardens are extensive, and you can walk through vast lawns surrounded by woodland and woodland walks.
The large plantings near the castle include some weird and wonderful topiary. We asked the gardener what he was on when he trimmed the trees, but he denied any drug connection — but did suggest that he had a long-term blackout while the job was under way!
Another delightful site, with an interesting history. After spending the day here, we decided to return to Hawthorn Farm Caravan Park, only a couple of miles away. And so we did.
Distance driven — today, 10 miles ( 16 km ); to date, 30,281 miles ( 48,733 km )
Not fat enough for Thelwell.(the horse I mean.) Liked both the castles. Flint meant you had money if it was in yer mortar apparently. Norfolk used a lot of it. Gardensa lovely. Hair looked good too Suze. Merri disposed of at least a million eggs from poor little Soph's head today. She'd got rid of the nits last week (recurrent problem at Soph's school). She's still got a couple of hundred to go but the poor kid was exhausted and we'd run out of chemicals. I hate the darned things we've had them intermittently in Soph for I dunnamany years. her hair always looks clean and shiny too. It is common in SA schools and colleges apparently and why our health department is not onto it I just do not know. Oh well, another day another couple of hundred eggs. Love ya, Cathy
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