Severndroog Castle is an elegantly preserved Gothic tower situated on Shooter’s Hill, one of the highest points in London. From our viewing platform, you will be captivated by the spectacular 360° view of the capital and beyond.
This historic Grade II*-listed 18th-century folly is nestled in ancient woodland, making it the ideal hidden gem to explore away from the London bustle.
severndroog castle
The castle & VIEW
Severndroog Castle was built in 1784 as a memorial to Sir William James by his wife Lady Anne James. It celebrates his most famous exploit, the capturing of the island fortress of Suvarnadurg.
Severndroog Castle is 132 metres (432 feet) above sea level, gifting it with one of the best panoramic views of the London cityscape, the Thames River and the edges of London's seven surrounding counties.
Read more on the Visitor Info page.
The Tearoom
On the ground floor of the castle lies a Tearoom filled with delicious treats, freshly prepared lunches and comforting hot drinks. This haven at the edge of the woods welcomes all passers by, even the four-legged kind. During the warmer months, the outside terrace allows you to bask in the sun admiring the flowers and the trees.
Read more about the Tearoom and its menu on the Tearoom page.
The woods
Severndroog Castle stands in Castle Wood, one of Britain’s few remaining ancient deciduous woodland sites, dating back over 8000 years. It is a site of Special Scientific Interest, and covers 72.7 hectares. It is part of a larger parkland area which includes Oxleas Wood, Jack Wood and Shepherdleas Wood.
These woodlands form part of London's Green Chain Walk and Capital Ring Walk, and provide picturesque nature trails to walk and cycle through.
Have a look at our woodland trail.
Visitor info
What's on @ Severndroog
The Castle is open to the public on selected Sundays. Our Tearoom is open Thursdays to Sundays.
Read more
Explore our exciting programme of events for all ages, from Open Air Theatre and Live Music to Pop-Up Restaurants and Treasure Hunts.
Read more
Volunteer:
Severndroog is largely volunteer-run so your contribution, no matter how big or small, is essential. If you can spare one day a week or even just two hours a month, we need people to bring the Castle to life and tell our stories. Read more about Volunteering.
Follow us:
Follow and like us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to be the first to know about our events and news.
DONATE:
We are a charity (Severndroog Castle Building Preservation Trust) and rely on donations from the public and organisations. We would be very thankful if you could donate what you can. Please click here to donate to Severndroog.
NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP:
Please sign up to our newsletter by filling in your details.
We treat your personal information with the utmost respect, as you can read in our Privacy Notice.
Volunteer:
Severndroog is largely volunteer-run so your contribution, no matter how big or small, is essential. If you can spare one day a week or even just two hours a month, we need people to bring the castle to life and tell our stories. Read more about Volunteering.
Tea Room Opening Times:
Thursday - 9.00 - 3.30
Friday - 9.00 - 3.30
Saturday - 9.00 - 3.30
Sunday - 9.00 - 3.30
Viewing Platform and Galleries Opening Times:
Sunday - 10.00 - 3.30(last visit 3.15)
