Allington Castle, a medieval fortress in Kent where royalty once dined, has been placed on the market with a guide price of £5 million. The 12th-century property, located three miles north west of Maidstone, is listed on Zoopla and described by estate agent Knight Frank as a "rare and evocative offering" set within 42 acres of woodland and riverside land along the River Medway.
The castle offers more than 24,000 square feet of living space, including 30 bedrooms, 20 bathrooms, and 26 reception rooms. Its history stretches back to the Domesday Book of 1086, and it was later owned by the Wyatt family, who transformed it into a grand residence in the late 15th century.
Historic features and royal connections
The Great Hall, where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once dined, remains a central point of the castle. Other historic features include two inner courtyards, a full moat, a bear-baiting ring, a jousting yard, and "Dog Caves" beneath the building. The property also includes a tennis court, a Victorian-style greenhouse, and an indoor swimming pool.
Formal gardens feature ornamental fountains and manicured parterres, while a meadow supports wildlife and pollinators. The current owners have maintained the property and installed modern electrical and heating systems while preserving its medieval character.
Living space and additional lodgings
The front half of the castle offers extensive living space, including a kitchen and dining room, sitting room, library, and multiple bedrooms. The estate also includes nine separate lodgings for family, guests, or staff, and the grounds have previously accommodated helicopter landings.
Although it is not normally open to the public, Allington Castle is already established as a venue for weddings and corporate events, as well as filming.
Commercial potential and next steps
In the Zoopla listing, Knight Frank said: "Allington Castle is a once-in-a-generation acquisition, offering the opportunity to become custodian of a historic English landmark, enjoy it as a private sanctuary, or further develop its considerable commercial potential."
"Whether as a prestigious family estate or a visionary hospitality venture, Allington Castle invites its next owner to shape the next chapter of its extraordinary story."
