Henry VIII’s lost castle lives on in Kent structures
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Dr. Christopher Moore of the University of Kent discovered stone from Sandown Castle, built by Henry VIII in the 1530s, within Dover Castle and other buildings in East Kent, England.
Sandown Castle largely disappeared due to coastal erosion and was demolished in the 19th century, but Moore found evidence that builders salvaged its stone for reuse.
An 1883 report detailed the transport of Sandown stone to Dover Castle to construct an extension at Constable’s Gate, which Moore confirmed by examining the architecture. Moore’s research extended beyond Dover Castle, identifying stone from Sandown Castle at Eastry Union Chapel, Walmer Castle, and Deal’s second pier abutment. These discoveries show that materials from the lost fortress were incorporated into structures across East Kent, preserving parts of it despite the castle’s demolition.
The University of Kent and English Heritage supported the research, which adds to the known history of Dover Castle and helps to understand the fate of Tudor fortresses. Moore hopes people will visit Dover Castle and recognize the connection to Sandown Castle, experiencing a tangible link to the past.
