The Collections

Chiddingstone Castle was the home of Denys Eyre Bower between 1956 and 1977. Denys was a passionate collector who devoted his life to the collection of beautiful art and artefacts, many of which are on display.

Denys wanted to share his passion for objects of beauty with other people and so displayed his collections in the castle for the public. On his death in 1977, in order that people could continue to view his treasures, he bequeathed his life’s work to the Nation.

The National Trust refused to accept the bequest, despite impassioned pleas from Ruth Eldridge, citing the lack of sufficient funds to preserve the collections and castle. After nearly 7 more years relentless effort and work, Ruth Eldridge succeeded in persuading the High Court to order the formation of a private trust. Today the Trustees of Denys Eyre Bower are very proud to continue his legacy by opening Chiddingstone Castle to the public for much of the year.

Keep up to date with our collections and our dynamic curatorial team via the curatorial newsletter.