ST. LEONARD'S TOWER

Kent

St. Leonard's Tower (which some rather irritatingly insist on calling 'West Malling Castle') was built by Bishop Gundulph of Rochester (who was responsible for building a similar tower next to the Cathedral in Rochester, as well as having some hand in Rochester Castle).  So commentators insist it is too small and too slight to provide much protection, but argument to the contrary can easily be found in the shape of such tiny Castles as Sutton Valence or Clitheroe, neither of which is subjected to such derogatory comment.

It is a very early stone construction, dating to around 1070, and is preserved in excellent condition.  Little or nothing is known of the Castle's later history, although it seems to have belonged to the church right up until the 17th century when it became in turn a gaol and a hop store.

St. Leonard's Tower is owned by English Heritage and the interior is viewable on requesting a key from a nearby cottage.

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2001