Severndroog Castle View & History

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/

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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.

History of Severndroog Castle

Severndroog Castle is a striking Gothic tower built in 1784 on Shooter’s Hill, one of the highest points in London. Despite its name, it was never a true castle but a memorial folly commissioned by Lady James of Eltham to honour her late husband, Commodore Sir William James. He led a successful naval attack in 1755 on the fortress of Suvarnadurg (anglicised as Severndroog) on India’s western coast while serving with the East India Company.

Designed by architect Richard Jupp, the tower stands 63 feet tall and features a triangular layout with hexagonal turrets. It became a landmark for surveying and navigation, used in the Anglo-French Survey that helped establish the Ordnance Survey. Over the years, it served as a lookout during wartime and a public attraction. After falling into disrepair, it was restored and reopened in 2014. Today, Severndroog Castle offers panoramic views and a peaceful escape in ancient woodland.

10 Interesting Facts About Severndroog Castle

The castle’s name comes from a fortress in India captured by Sir William James.
It was built as a memorial just one year after his death in 1783.
The tower’s triangular design is unique among London’s historic buildings.
It was used in the 1780s Anglo-French Survey to link Greenwich and Paris observatories.
The viewing platform offers sights of up to seven counties on a clear day.
A 36-inch theodolite was once mounted on the roof for surveying.
The castle was featured in a 1901 children’s novel by E. Nesbit as the “Tower of Mystery.”
It had a direct phone line to Whitehall during World War II.
Severndroog was closed for 25 years before reopening in 2014 after community-led restoration.
It’s now managed by a preservation trust and hosts weddings, events, and guided tours.

Things to See and Do at Severndroog Castle

Climb to the Viewing Platform
Ascend 86 spiral steps to reach one of London’s highest viewpoints. From the top, you can see landmarks across the city and, on clear days, as far as Windsor Castle.
Explore the Castle Rooms
Visit restored interiors with ornate ceilings, carved lion heads, and chandeliers. Volunteers share stories about the castle’s history and its role in navigation and wartime.
Relax in the Tea Room
Enjoy drinks, cakes, and light meals in the cosy ground-floor café. Outdoor seating is available in warmer months, surrounded by woodland.
Walk the Woodland Trails
Severndroog sits in Castle Wood, part of the ancient Oxleas Woods. Trails lead through peaceful greenery and connect to the Green Chain Walk.
Attend Seasonal Events
Look out for craft markets, music afternoons, and family-friendly activities. Events are held throughout the year and often include access to the tower.
Join a Group or School Visit
Book tailored tours for clubs, schools, or history groups. These include refreshments and exclusive access to the Lady James Room.
Browse the Timeline Display
Inside the tea room, a painted timeline traces the castle’s story from 1755 to the present day, offering a quick overview for curious visitors.
Spot Wildlife and Birds of Prey
The castle’s height offers rare views of birds flying below the treetops. Binoculars are available to borrow for keen spotters.
Take Photos of the Architecture
Capture the castle’s unusual triangular shape and Gothic details. It’s a favourite for photographers and architecture fans.
Combine with Nearby Attractions
Pair your visit with Eltham Palace, Oxleas Wood, or the Green Chain Walk for a full day out in southeast London.

Practical Information For Visiting Severndroog Castle

Location: Castle Wood, Shooters Hill, London SE18 3RT
Opening times: Tea Room open Thursday–Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm; Viewing Platform open Sundays, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (last entry 3:45 pm)
Entry: Adults £5.00, children £3.50, under 5s free; family and annual passes available
Parking: Public car park 200 metres away (SE18 3RU); check seasonal gate times
Accessibility: Ground floor accessible via steps with handrails; upper floors via spiral staircase only
Dogs: Assistance dogs only inside; dogs allowed on leads in surrounding woods
Food: Tea Room offers drinks, cakes, and light meals
Toilets: Available on site
Nearby: Oxleas Wood, Eltham Palace, Greenwich Park, Woolwich Common

Address: Severndroog Castle Castle Wood, Shooters Hill, London SE18 3RT

Next, see my list of non touristy things to do in London.