For just £6, you can see the London skyline, 432 feet above sea level. Well, sort of.
They provide binoculars, which you’ll need to zoom in. Or a decent camera. You can see mostly Canary Wharf as it’s closest, but you’ll also spot the arch of Wembley Stadium, The Shard, The Walkie-Talkie, the BT Tower and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Make time to have tea and cake at the cafe and stroll through Oxleas Woods.
https://www.severndroogcastle.org.uk/
History of Severndroog Castle
Nestled atop Shooters Hill in London, Severndroog Castle is a fascinating testament to love, adventure, and historical preservation. Built in 1784 by Sir William James, a naval hero of the 18th century, this unique structure has weathered the sands of time, serving as an observatory, a tearoom, and, ultimately, a restored heritage site.
The story begins with Sir William James, a distinguished naval officer who sought to commemorate the memory of his beloved late wife, Lady James. In 1755, Sir William achieved a significant military triumph by capturing Suvarnadurg fortress on the west coast of India. To honor this achievement and immortalize his wife’s memory, he decided to construct Severndroog Castle.
The name “Severndroog” itself is evocative, derived from the Sanskrit words “Suvarna” meaning gold and “Durg” meaning fortress, reminiscent of Sir William’s successful capture in India. The castle, with its romantic and exotic origins, was designed as an observation tower, strategically positioned to provide panoramic views of the River Thames and the surrounding landscapes.
The architecture of Severndroog Castle is a unique blend of Gothic and classical styles, reflecting the prevailing aesthetics of the late 18th century. Its three floors served various purposes, including living quarters for the caretaker and a tearoom for visitors during the early 20th century.
Over the years, Severndroog Castle underwent several transformations, each layer adding to its complex history. After Sir William James’ passing in 1783, the castle experienced periods of neglect, its once-pristine walls bearing witness to the changing times. During the mid-20th century, Severndroog Castle took on a new role as a tearoom, welcoming locals and visitors who sought respite and charm amid its historic walls.
However, the castle faced challenges during World War II when it suffered damage due to bombing raids. This chapter in Severndroog’s history marked a period of uncertainty and hardship, but it was not the end of the story.
The 21st century brought a renewed interest in historical preservation, and Severndroog Castle became the focus of dedicated restoration efforts. A group of enthusiastic individuals formed the Severndroog Castle Building Preservation Trust with the aim of rescuing the castle from further decay and restoring it to its former glory.
The restoration project, undertaken in 2004, was a labor of love and a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving their local heritage. The Trust, along with various stakeholders and volunteers, worked tirelessly to repair the castle’s structure, reinstate its original features, and open its doors to the public.
Today, Severndroog Castle stands as a beautifully restored monument, a striking blend of historical significance and contemporary accessibility. Visitors can ascend to the top of the castle, enjoying breathtaking views of London and its surroundings, just as Sir William James intended over two centuries ago.
Address: Severndroog Castle Castle Wood, Shooters Hill, London SE18 3RT
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