A 483-YEAR-OLD castle that’s survived countless wars could soon be cut off from the UK.
Located in Hampshire, Hurst Castle was built by Henry VIII in the 1540s, becoming one of the most advanced artillery fortresses in England.
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Managed by English Heritage, the Tudor castle remains popular with visitors who can even see the Isle of Wight on a clear day.
Despite its popularity with holidaymakers, Hurst Castle could soon be cut off from the mainland under new beach protection plans.
The rewilding plans have been drawn up by the Environment Agency, aiming to protect a mile-long stretch of the shingle coast against the impacts of climate change.
Expected to cost up to £16million, the new plans involve creating embankments that will allow the land to flood.
The land will then transition into a salt marsh over time, with other areas being left to take on a “more natural form”.
However, critics have spoken out against the plans, which they believe could see the 16th-century castle cut off from the mainland.
One campaigner, Dominic May, who is part of a group called Save Lymington and Keyhaven (Slak), said: “Keyhaven river will be changed beyond all recognition, Hurst Castle will be cut off permanently from the shore.
“There will not be any place to shelter under Hurst as the swell and waves will pass over Hurst shingle bank, and Lymington Harbour as a whole will be at risk.
“All of the features in that area will be given up to allow the tidal waters to migrate inland and create new intertidal habitat for the birds.”
The plans are still under consultation, with nothing confirmed.
Closed for the winter, Hurst Castle is set to reopen for its summer season on April 1.
Built by Henry VIII, the castle commanded the narrow entrance to the Solent – a major shipping lane for passenger, freight and military vessels.
The castle was used as a prison in the 17th century, with King Charles I holed up inside its walls.
Hurst Castle underwent significant modifications during the 19th and 20th centuries to adapt to evolving military technology, with armoured wings added to accommodate heavy artillery.
It also played an important role during the Second World War, serving as part of the country’s coastal defence network.
Nowadays, Hurst Castle is managed by English Heritage with visitors able to learn more about its role in defending England‘s southern coast.
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The castle has been praised by visitors, with a 4/5 star rating from over 1,400 reviews.
One person wrote: “I have been to this castle many times and enjoy both the shingle walk and the ferry ride over. It’s very interesting and the views are great.”
Another person added: “It’s quite an impressive structure, interesting to see the original foundations from hundreds of years ago.”
Hurst Castle is a 70-minute drive from Portsmouth, and it’s a 50-minute drive from Southampton.
The castle is slated to open on April 1, with entry tickets for adults starting from £8.50 and children’s tickets from £5.50.
Three other castles to visit in the UK
THE UK is home to some amazing castles – here are some of the best:
Bamburgh Castle
This medieval fortress is built overlooking the stunning Northumberland coast, offering a wonderfully picturesque place to explore some of England’s history.
The castle itself is incredibly well preserved and dates all the way back to the 11th century.
Kenilworth Castle
Brits can find out about sieges and royal scandals at Kenilworth Castle, one of the most famous forts in the country.
The medieval castle has had a fascinating history and was even transformed into an Elizabethan palace.
Today its keep, its Tudor towers and Elizabethan garden are among the sites people can explore.
Edinburgh Castle
Dominating the skyline of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle has been dubbed “defender of the nation” by locals.
Today, the castle is still an active military base, with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo remaining a highlight among visitors.
It’s also home to Scotland’s Crown Jewels as well as other national treasures.
Last summer, travel reporter Hope Brotherton visited the UK’s ‘best’ castle with live jousting tournaments, a Zog playground and a medieval-themed hotel.
Meanwhile, these are some of the most popular castle stays that can be booked in the UK.
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