Yarmouth Castle tells a story of Tudor coastal defence. English Heritage dates the start of construction to 1546 to 1547, the final years of Henry VIII’s reign.
Guarding the western Solent
The castle was designed to work with Hurst Castle on the mainland to guard the western entrance to the Solent. Its position beside the town quay also helped defend the landing point on the river.
English Heritage describes Yarmouth as the final fortification in the national coastal defence programme Henry began in 1539. Its military use continued in different forms long after the Tudor period.
Plan a future visit
Read the official history before exploring Yarmouth. Check English Heritage’s opening calendar and visitor information for your chosen date. This article does not confirm winter access or ticket availability.
Official history of Yarmouth Castle. Current visitor information.
Plan your island stay and check live accommodation availability.
Picture: original Tudor defence illustration, not a reconstruction or photograph of Yarmouth Castle.