The Denys Eyre Bower Bequest holds Chiddingstone Castle in trust for the nation. It was left by Denys Eyre Bower (1905 - 1977) in the hope that future generations would enjoy his home and collections. The Castle is an accredited museum. Bower’s collections are of international significance and are grouped into four key areas - Japanese, Stuart and Jacobite, Buddhist, and Ancient Egyptian. The building has Tudor origins and was remodelled in the 19th century to resemble a medieval castle. It was previously owned and lived in by an eclectic mix of people including the Streatfeild family, Lord Astor, military forces during WWII, and Long Dene School. An extensive collection of artefacts and documents related to local history are held at the Castle.
The Castle and collections are open to visitors seven months a year. We host a programme of cultural, educational, entertainment and wellbeing events such as expert talks, open-air theatre, music shows, country fairs, Zen days and literary festivals. Our Victorian Tea Room provides delicious victuals. Our grounds of natural woodlands, nature trails, lake and lawns are open all year round. Come and join us.
