Thurnham Castle

About

Thurnham Castle and the site on which it stands appears to have been used for fortification purposes since Roman times as a watchtower. Later this fortification was developed by the Saxons and was known as Godard Castle, founded by the Saxon Godardis.

During the 12th century, the fortress belonged to the de Say family and then the de Thurnhams. Stephen and Robert de Thurnham crusaded with Richard the Lionheart and became trusted subjects. Robert was given command of the English fleet and later made governor of Cyprus although one source indicates Robert de Thurnham never returned from the crusades and the castle was left to decay.

A Charter in 1215, mentions the lands within the walls of the castle, which may indicate that it was already in ruins as reported in the early 19th century.

There are the remains of some low walls very much overgrown.