Thurnham Castle

Thurnham Castle is a ruin of a fortification built on a hilltop at the edge of the North Downs near Maidstone. The main feature is a substantial flint wall with building foundations visible across the small site.

The fortress was built in the 12th century during the reign of Henry II and reused earlier Roman structures at the site. It served as a defensive position for the surrounding area in medieval times.

The place takes its name from the Thurnham family who held the land for generations. What remains shows how fortifications were built and used in this part of Kent.

The site is accessible through White Horse Wood Country Park, which provides maintained pathways around the ruins. A dry day is ideal for visiting since the hilltop location can become slippery in wet conditions.

The founder of the fortress, Robert of Thurnham, had an unusual career as a military commander who later served far from home. Few visitors realize that someone from this quiet hilltop held significant power in distant lands during the Crusades.