21/05/2026 08:53 AM
Located in the rolling countryside of Kent, Chiddingstone Castle forms part of one of England’s best-preserved historic villages. The Tudor village, which is owned and cared for by the National Trust, represents everything that heritage organisations strive to protect. Beauty, longevity, sustainability, and respect for the landscape. It is therefore a fitting setting for one of Jacksons Fencing’s most enduring projects.
In 1998, Jacksons supplied and installed its distinctive timber Jaktop fencing around areas of the castle grounds, including sections within woodland, close to the estate’s lake. More than 28 years later, the fencing remains standing, straight, and structurally sound, with no visible signs of rot or decay. This performance has surpassed even the expectations set by the Jacksons 25 year Jakcure® guarantee and provides a powerful real world example of the value of investing in high quality fencing from a British manufacturer.
Chiddingstone Castle and its historic setting
Chiddingstone Castle dates back to the early 16th century and is the historic centrepiece of the only remaining fully Tudor village in Kent. Over the centuries, the castle has been remodelled and repurposed. Since 1977, the castle and its 35 acres of grounds have been held in trust for the nation by the Denys Eyre Bower Bequest, and both are open to the public. Today it is known not only for its eclectic museum and history, but also for use as a wedding and events venue, and its tranquil woodland walks.
Organisations like the National Trust and similar focus on long term stewardship, conservation, and sustainability. Decisions made today are expected to last for generations. Materials must be appropriate to their surroundings, sympathetic to heritage sites and resilient enough to cope with heavy visitor use and exposure to the elements. These principles align closely with Jacksons’ own approach to manufacturing fencing that is designed to last.
The challenge of fencing in a sensitive landscape
Installing fencing within a historic estate presents unique challenges. The fencing at Chiddingstone Castle needed to define boundaries without interrupting views across the woodland and towards the castle itself. It also needed to blend naturally into the rural landscape, support biodiversity and withstand environmental pressures, particularly in areas close to water.
Lakeside installations are notoriously demanding for timber fencing. Higher moisture levels, fluctuating ground conditions, and increased biological activity can accelerate decay if materials are poorly specified or incorrectly installed. On top of this, the castle attracts thousands of visitors each year. Footfall, maintenance machinery, and general wear have the potential to significantly reduce the lifespan of lesser products.
The Jaktop difference
Our Jaktop fencing was selected for its distinctive and practical criss cross design. The open diamond pattern is visually lightweight and decorative, making it ideal for heritage environments where preserving long views and sightlines is essential. At Chiddingstone, the fencing subtly protects key areas while allowing uninterrupted views from the surrounding woodland back towards the castle.
The design is also wildlife friendly. The open structure allows small animals to pass between the apertures, supporting natural movement through the landscape rather than creating rigid barriers. This aligns well with the National Trust’s commitment to enhancing biodiversity across its estates.
Built to last with Jakcure treatment
The longevity of the Jaktop fencing at Chiddingstone Castle is largely due to Jacksons’ Jakcure® pressure treatment process. All timber components are kiln dried before treatment, reducing internal moisture and improving stability. The timber is then pressure treated with preservatives that penetrate deep into the wood, providing long term protection against rot and insect attack.
While Jacksons backs its fencing with a 25 year guarantee against rot and insect infestation, this installation has exceeded that period by several years and continues to perform as intended. Even in close proximity to the lake, the timber shows no signs of decay. This demonstrates the importance of correct specification and installation, particularly around water sources.
Best practice recommendations include ensuring that posts are not left standing in permanent water, allowing for adequate drainage around the base and using properly treated, kiln dried timber throughout. When combined with professional installation, these measures significantly extend the life of any timber fence.
Sustainable fencing for heritage settings
Sustainability is central to both the National Trust and Jacksons. All Jacksons timber is responsibly sourced, and manufacturing takes place in the UK, reducing transport miles and supporting British industry. Chiddingstone Castle is also located relatively close to Jacksons’ headquarters in Kent, reinforcing the benefits of using local suppliers who understand the regional landscape and its demands.
Choosing durable, long lasting products is itself a sustainable decision. Fences that last decades reduce the need for replacement, minimise waste and lower the overall environmental impact across their lifecycle. The fact that the Jaktop fencing at Chiddingstone Castle remains in service after nearly three decades is a testament to this approach.
Standing the test of time and visitors
Historic attractions must cater for large numbers of visitors while preserving their character. The Jaktop fencing has quietly performed its role throughout years of seasonal footfall, estate maintenance and changing environmental conditions. Its continued strength and appearance underline the importance of investing in quality goods rather than short term solutions.
For organisations responsible for heritage sites, parks, and landscapes, this project highlights how thoughtful design, robust materials and expert treatment can deliver outstanding long term value.
A heritage success story
The Jaktop fencing at Chiddingstone Castle is more than just a boundary solution. It is an example of how British manufacturing, sustainable materials, and proven craftsmanship can support heritage conservation in a practical and unobtrusive way.
Over 28 years on, the fence continues to protect views, support wildlife, and complement an important historic site. It stands as a clear endorsement of Jacksons’ belief that if you buy quality and install it correctly, it will repay you many times over.
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