Stone Castle

Stone Castle stands in the village of Stone in Kent, a short distance from Western Quarry. Built between 1135 and 1140, it occupies the site where William the Conqueror signed a treaty with the men of Kent in 1067. The castle was once owned by the Wiltshire family, whose members included Bridget Wingfield, a close friend of Anne Boleyn. In 1527, Thomas Wolsey, Thomas More and the Earl of Derby visited the castle during Henry VIII’s efforts to marry Anne Boleyn, who lived at nearby Hever Castle. The castle played a role in national events during the 16th century. Its connections to Anne Boleyn’s circle highlight its place in Tudor history. During World War II, the RAF used the castle for military purposes. Later, it became home to a private ambulance company, though its current occupancy remains uncertain after administrative changes in 2024. Visitors today see a later house built around 1825, standing on the castle’s historic foundations. The grounds include remnants of the original structure, offering a glimpse into its medieval past. The setting remains peaceful, with the nearby quarry adding a rugged contrast to the refined architecture of the 19th-century house.