Medieval castle that once hosted Henry VIII hits the market for £5 million - complete with its own moat and jousting yard

Published: 10:36 EDT, 27 October 2026 | Updated: 10:37 EDT, 27 October 2026 A medieval castle where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn are said to have once dined is up for sale for £5 million.Allington Castle in Maidstone, Kent is a restored 12th-century castle set within 42 acres of woodland along the River Medway.It was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, and has since been converted into a grand residence.Notably, the property has a full moat, bear-baiting ring and jousting yard.Other major draws include an impressive Great Hall, inner courtyards and caves beneath the castle.Allington Castle has a total of 30 bedrooms, and other amenities include a tennis court, greenhouse, indoor swimming pool and separate lodgings for staff. Allington Castle in Maidstone, Kent will set you back £5million The historic property has a number of reception rooms, a moat and a Great Hall for dining It is kitted out for weddings as well as corporate eventsThe Grade I-listed castle can also host weddings and events, with a capacity for up to 150 guests. The listing, from Knight Frank, says: 'Formal gardens with ornamental fountains and manicured parterres sit alongside a flourishing meadow rich in wildlife and pollinators. 'The historic dovecote, believed to be one of the oldest in England, and nesting kestrels within the castle towers further enhance the estate's appeal. 'There is also scope to revive a productive fruit and vegetable garden, complemented by fruit and nut trees including Kent cobnuts, apples, pears and plums.'The property was owned by pollster Sir Robert Worcester until he died in 2025, and has now been put on the market.It has also been featured in film and television – Horrible Histories and The Avengers used the castle as a filming location, the BBC reported. It is located along the River Medway in Kent, with stunning views Interiors have been restored, with a nod to the heritage of the property The castle has 30 bedrooms, each immaculately decoratedThe listing adds: '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.'It is well located, too, with nearby Mote Park offering watersports and outdoor activities, and other sporting pitches nearby.The estate provides easy access to the M20, linking London with Dover and Folkestone. Oli Streeter, associate in Knight Frank's south east national country department, said: 'Allington Castle presents a rare opportunity to become the custodian of a remarkable piece of English history, with origins dating back to the Domesday Book. 'Most notably, the castle hosted Henry VIII, who stayed in its 'Royal Room' during his visits.'