Exterior view

Canterbury Castle is a Norman Castle in Canterbury, Kent. It was one of the three original Royal castles of Kent (the other two being Rochester Castle and Dover Castle). They were all built soon after the Battle of Hastings (14 October 1066), on the main Roman road from Dover to London. This was the route taken by William the Conqueror in October 1066, and they were built originally as motte-and-bailey castles to guard this important route.

A wooden motte-and-bailey castle was erected in 1066. The great stone keep was largely constructed in the reign of Henry I (1069-1135), the youngest son of William, as one of three Royal castles in Kent. This massive structure is mainly made of flint and sandstone rubble. By the 13th century the castle had become the county gaol.

The photo shows the exterior of the ruined castle. You can also view the elevations and ground plans for Canterbury Castle.