Sutton Valence Castle
Sutton Valence, Kent
The ruined keep of a castle once owned by Simon de Montfort, free, perched on the greensand ridge with an escarpment path for your dog.
A small ruin in a big position. What survives at Sutton Valence is the shell of a modest Norman keep built in the second half of the 12th century, all that is left of a castle guarding the road below. From 1238 it belonged to Simon de Montfort, who led the baronial rebellion against Henry III, forced the creation of England's first representative parliament, and was killed and dismembered at the Battle of Evesham in 1265. Not bad for a keep this size.
As you take in the view, which is the real reason to stop, your dog gets the ridge. The castle stands on the greensand escarpment with panoramic views out over the Weald of Kent and into East Sussex, and the ridge path gives a genuinely good walk along the edge.
Free and permanently open. There is no official guidance on dogs here, so keep your dog on a lead around the ruined walls, where masonry is loose, and near the steep ground below the keep. There are no facilities on site, though Sutton Valence village is immediately above with a pub and shops.
At a Glance
- Site Type
- Medieval & Tudor
- Entry
- Free
- Members
- Free for English Heritage members
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Planning Your Visit
Opening times and prices were checked on 26 August 2026 and are subject to change, and some sites close for events or over winter. Confirm on the English Heritage site page before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sutton Valence Castle dog friendly?
Dogs are welcome at Sutton Valence Castle, and the site is free and permanently open. There's no official dog policy in place, so it's worth being sensible about where your dog roams — but the ridge path along the greensand escarpment makes for a genuinely rewarding walk with sweeping views over the Weald of Kent and into East Sussex.
Are dogs allowed at Sutton Valence Castle year round?
Yes — the castle is permanently open with no restricted seasons or opening hours, so you can visit any time of year. Just bear in mind there are no facilities on site, though Sutton Valence village is right above with a pub and shops if you need to stop before or after your walk.
What should I know before visiting Sutton Valence Castle with my dog?
There's no official guidance on dogs here, but it's sensible to keep your dog on a lead around the ruined walls, where masonry is loose, and near the steep ground below the keep. There are no facilities at the site itself, so come prepared — and if you need a post-walk drink or supplies, the village of Sutton Valence is immediately above with a pub and shops.
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