Why Alan Carr Bought a Castle and Where It Is in Kent

Published: 24 February 2026
The English Chronicle Desk
The English Chronicle Online

Comedian and television presenter Alan Carr has taken an unexpected step into Britain’s architectural history by purchasing a 19th-century Gothic revival tower in Kent, widely referred to as a “castle” because of its dramatic battlements and soaring height. The property in question is the Grade I-listed Hadlow Tower, located in the village of Hadlow near Tonbridge, approximately 30 miles south-east of London.

Carr’s acquisition of the landmark structure has drawn public attention not only because of its unusual scale but also due to the building’s complicated recent history. Originally constructed in the 1830s, Hadlow Tower was designed as a folly — an ornamental building intended to impress rather than to serve a defensive or residential function. Commissioned by local landowner Walter Barton May, the tower was built to resemble a medieval castle keep, complete with turrets and Gothic detailing. At 175 feet (53 metres) tall, it is the tallest folly in Britain.

Over the decades, the tower fell into severe disrepair. Structural instability became so serious that in 2013 the top section collapsed during restoration works. A significant conservation effort followed, supported by public fundraising and heritage grants, stabilising the structure and converting it into a single residential dwelling. The restoration aimed to preserve original architectural features while making the property habitable under strict heritage guidelines.

Carr, known for his flamboyant humour and sharp observational comedy, has in recent years cultivated a parallel public identity as a renovation enthusiast. His design credentials were showcased through television projects including Interior Design Masters, where he brought a distinctive aesthetic sensibility and hands-on interest in period properties. Purchasing Hadlow Tower appears consistent with that evolving interest.

Sources familiar with the transaction indicate that Carr intends to restore and personalise the tower’s interior while respecting its listed status. Because the building is protected under Grade I designation, any modifications must comply with conservation regulations. This classification is reserved for structures of exceptional interest, representing only a small fraction of listed buildings in England.

The property’s layout is highly unconventional. Unlike traditional castles with sprawling courtyards and multiple wings, Hadlow Tower is vertically arranged across several levels connected by a central spiral staircase. Each floor occupies a relatively compact footprint, making interior design both a challenge and an opportunity. The upper levels offer panoramic views across the Kent countryside, extending on clear days toward the North Downs.

The purchase price has not been formally disclosed in full detail through official filings at the time of publication, though previous listings placed the property in the multimillion-pound bracket, reflecting its rarity and heritage status. Real estate analysts note that unique historic buildings often command premiums due to their scarcity value, though they also entail substantial maintenance costs.

Carr has publicly expressed affection for eccentric and historically rich properties. Observers interpret this acquisition less as a conventional real estate investment and more as a passion project. Folly towers such as Hadlow carry symbolic appeal: they combine romanticised medieval aesthetics with Victorian ambition and, in some cases, structural fragility. Restoring and inhabiting such a building inevitably attracts media interest.

Kent, often referred to as the “Garden of England,” provides a rural yet accessible setting for high-profile homeowners seeking privacy without total isolation. The village of Hadlow retains a traditional character, and the tower’s prominence on the skyline makes it a recognised local landmark. For residents, Carr’s purchase has generated curiosity about how the structure will evolve under new ownership.

The question of “why a castle?” appears to have both personal and professional dimensions. Carr has previously spoken about his enthusiasm for design and restoration, describing renovation as a creative outlet distinct from stand-up comedy and broadcasting. Owning Hadlow Tower allows him to engage directly with heritage architecture on a scale few private individuals experience.

There is also an element of narrative symbolism. Carr’s comedic persona often embraces theatricality and exaggerated British eccentricity. Acquiring a turreted Gothic tower aligns with that image while simultaneously reflecting a genuine commitment to preserving historic structures. Heritage advocates have cautiously welcomed the purchase, noting that continued private investment is often essential for maintaining vulnerable listed buildings.

Architectural historians point out that follies like Hadlow Tower were originally statements of wealth and prestige. In the 21st century, their survival depends on adaptive reuse and careful stewardship. Carr’s involvement places the tower back into national conversation, potentially increasing awareness of the broader challenges facing historic conservation in England.

Local planning authorities are expected to monitor any proposed works closely. Grade I status imposes strict oversight, particularly regarding external alterations, structural adjustments and material authenticity. However, previous restoration has already converted the building into habitable form, meaning Carr inherits a property structurally stabilised but likely requiring ongoing refinement.

Public reaction has been largely favourable, with many expressing interest in whether the tower will feature in future television projects. While no formal announcement has been made regarding filming, Carr’s established media profile makes that possibility plausible.

In summary, Alan Carr has purchased Hadlow Tower in Kent — a 19th-century Gothic folly often described as a castle due to its fortified appearance. The acquisition reflects both his personal interest in design and the ongoing importance of private custodianship in preserving Britain’s architectural heritage. Situated in the countryside yet within reach of London, the tower offers dramatic vertical living space and a distinctive silhouette against the Kent skyline.

Whether it becomes a quiet private retreat or a backdrop for future broadcast projects, the purchase reinforces Carr’s evolving identity as more than a comedian. It positions him as the new steward of one of England’s most unusual residential landmarks.

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