A remarkable 175-foot Gothic tower in Kent, celebrated for its striking architecture and storied past, has arrived on the market as an unusual family home with an asking price of £2.78 million. Known officially as Hadlow Tower but colloquially as ‘May’s Folly,’ the Grade I-listed structure stands taller than Nelson’s Column by six feet, marking it out as the world’s highest Gothic folly.
Originally constructed in the late 18th century, Hadlow Tower presents a unique opportunity for buyers seeking a blend of historic grandeur and modern comfort. The property, which underwent an extensive £4.2 million restoration in 2013, spans five storeys and offers four bedrooms. Nestled within private landscaped grounds, the tower is surrounded by mature woodlands and a tranquil lake, creating a secluded retreat just outside the village of Hadlow, near Tonbridge.
While the tower’s fairy-tale façade evokes the romance and eccentricity of the Georgian era, its interior has been meticulously adapted to meet the needs of contemporary living. The building is accessed via a distinguished triple-arched entrance at the heart of Hadlow village, and a private road leads through the estate to a collection of converted outbuildings and a grand, walled courtyard. These outbuildings now serve as private cottages whose residents share responsibility for communal gardens, sweeping lawns, and the picturesque lake.
On entering the tower, visitors are struck by a sense of historical significance. The main door, set within a double-height arch, opens onto a lobby with original brick flooring, leading to a reception area with terracotta tiles. A lift serves the lower four floors—a rare convenience in such heritage properties—while an array of practical spaces, including a utility room, cloakroom, and boot cupboard, make the home suitable for modern family life.
Historic features abound, from the oak doors salvaged from the original Hadlow Castle, to colourful stained-glass windows and exposed timber beams throughout the principal rooms. The first floor is home to an octagonal dining space, designed to make the most of the tower’s geometry, while the kitchen and breakfast room benefit from ample natural light and triple-aspect views. Upper levels house an elegantly appointed drawing room, several spacious bedrooms including en-suite facilities, and a rooftop terrace—offering panoramic views of Hadlow and the surrounding Kentish countryside.
Local legend imbues the tower with a touch of drama. It is said that Walter Barton May, a former owner, built the folly to keep watch over his estranged wife after she departed with a neighbouring farmer. Unhappy with its initial size, May purportedly demanded a 40-foot lantern be added, contributing to its distinctive silhouette. Over the years, the tower has survived both the vagaries of personal fate and historic storms—notably sustaining damage in the Great Storm of 1987. Its most recent restoration, which recreated the lost lantern in faithful detail, was supported by English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund, and garnered several conservation awards.
The current owner describes the joy his family has experienced living in Hadlow Tower, citing its peace, seclusion, and proximity to village life as particular highlights. The village itself boasts a Conservation Area status, period architecture and a thriving community spirit, with local amenities including shops, pubs, a restaurant, medical centre, and a library. For those with energetic pursuits in mind, there are cricket and bowls clubs, the renowned Hadlow College with its public gardens and tearoom, as well as outdoor activities.
For families, educational opportunities abound. The area is served by both primary and grammar schools, with further options available in nearby Tonbridge. Commuters will appreciate the regular train services to London, and leisure enthusiasts can enjoy numerous golf courses and sports clubs within a short radius.
As the tower’s current custodian prepares to relocate overseas, he reflects fondly on his time there. “We’ve appreciated every moment—there’s an atmosphere of tranquillity here that’s rare to find, yet we’re still connected to the heart of the village,” he commented. The market for such properties is certainly niche, but Hadlow Tower’s unique character and rich history are likely to captivate buyers seeking an extraordinary place to call home.
This majestic folly, once an emblem of personal whimsy, now stands ready to write a new chapter as a home for those inspired by history, architecture, and the Kent landscape.