The steps up to Sutton Valence Castle from Rectory Lane

Image: © Marathon Taken: 27 Sep 2013

Sutton Valence Castle was probably built by the Count of Aumale, Baldwin de Bethune in the middle of the 12th century and was used as a residence for over 150 years. In 1238 it came to Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester and leader of the baronial rebellion against Henry III. He was killed at the Battle of Evesham in 1265 and his estates were confiscated by the Crown. Henry III then conferred the castle on his half-brother William de Valence as a reward for his support during the rebellion, and the village of Sutton, or 'South Town, became known as Sutton Valence. The castle occupies a strong position overlooking the Maidstone to Winchelsea road and the Kentish Weald. The castle occupied a much larger area than today. The main survival is the Great Tower. This was built about 1200 and was at least three storeys high. The ground floor was probably used as a storeroom, and external stone stairs led to the main entrance on the first floor. The first floor room was probably for public business, with withdrawing chambers and storage space for treasures and documents in the chambers above it. These are the modern steps up to the castle from Rectory Lane. The strategic view can be seen.

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