St Leonard's Tower

St Leonard's Tower rises above a sandstone ledge on the edge of West Malling, retaining almost the full height of an early Norman tower keep. Its builder and original purpose remain uncertain: proposed connections include Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, and Odo of Bayeux, William the Conqueror's half-brother. Looking at the masonry and window openings from outside gives a sense of the building's strength without pretending that its history is settled. The name comes from a nearby chapel that has disappeared. Visitors describe a short stop, often combined with time in the surrounding area, and point out that the interior is locked. Plan on exterior viewing only. English Heritage recommends the charged car park at Manor Park Country Park opposite, which is operated separately from the tower.