Cook’s Castle

Cook’s Castle, constructed in 1774, can be attributed to Sir Richard Worlsey, who also oversaw the creation of the exquisite Appuldurcombe House. The castle is only a contemporary tower with turrets, purportedly constructed by Sir Richard to enhance the scenic vista visible from the windows of Appuldurcombe House.

The location was densely surrounded by trees and served as a popular destination for gatherings centred around picnics. Furthermore, individuals who ascended the structure were treated to captivating vistas of Appuldurcombe House, the Worsley Monument, and the Freemantle Gate. Shanklin and Sandown could be observed in the eastern direction, while the distant sight encompassed the white cliffs of Culver.

Individuals who persist along the trajectory originating from Shanklin will ultimately get at Cook’s Castle by veering to the right shortly after the Worsley obelisk becomes visible. Subsequently, they must proceed through a wooded area by means of a stile located at the southeastern corner.

Jenkinson’s Practical Guide to the Isle of Wight, published in 1876, Fortunately, in the 1840s, George Brannon made the decision to engrave the deteriorating folly, therefore transforming it into one of the noteworthy landmarks on the island. The aforementioned structure has an aesthetically pleasing architectural design, which would have served as a highly appealing point of interest for visitors.

It may be postulated that throughout the course of the ensuing century, the deteriorating walls of the structure likely transformed into a valuable accumulation of stone debris, which might have been used for various construction endeavours inside the estate.

The ultimate downfall of the subject in question may have been irrevocably determined by the unfortunate incident of the Spitfire Mk 1 – X4016 crash on August 16th, 1940.

The aircraft was operated by Flying Officer H.P. Connor from 234 Squadron. Following an encounter with a Messerschmitt Bf109, the pilot was compelled to eject from the Spitfire, resulting in its subsequent descent and crash in close proximity to the ruins. A significant explosion occurred, resulting in extensive damage over the vicinity of the folly.

Presently, at St. Martin’s Down, the location is roughly indicated (given the absence of tangible remnants of the folly) by a stone cairn with an inscription that reads “Site of Cook’s Castle.”

• Isle of Wight County Press