Folkestone Castle facts for kids
Folkestone Castle was an old castle that once stood on a hill near the town of Folkestone in Kent, England. It was built by the Normans a very long time ago.
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Folkestone Castle: A Glimpse into Norman Times
Folkestone Castle was a Norman castle built on a natural mound. It existed in the late 1000s and 1100s. Castles like this were important for controlling land and protecting people during the Middle Ages. This castle was likely built after the Normans took over England in 1066.
Digging Up History: The First Scientific Dig
In 1878, a famous archaeologist named Augustus Pitt Rivers excavated the site of Folkestone Castle. His work there is considered very important. Many people say this was the first time a medieval site in Britain was dug up using scientific methods. This means he carefully recorded everything he found.
Not Roman, But Still Ancient!
Even though some local people call it "Caesar's Camp," Folkestone Castle is actually not Roman at all. It was probably built as early as 1095. It was definitely used for some time after the Norman invasion of England. The hill where it stands is called Castle Hill.
Amazing Views and Modern Connections
From Castle Hill, you can see amazing views over the town and the coast. You can look from Folkestone across Romney Marsh all the way to Dungeness, Rye, and Fairlight. Today, the old earthworks of the castle overlook the end of the M20 motorway. They also look out over the entrance to the Channel Tunnel at Cheriton.
