A cafe, a bar, offices or housing have all been touted as possible options for the future for a Kent castle.

Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) is inviting opinions from the public on the future use of Tonbridge Castle.

The consultation opened last Friday and asks the public whether the council could be putting the castle to better or different uses in the future.

Tonbridge Castle borders the River Medway and dates back to the 13th century. It is popular with visitors and schools, while the grounds play host to a variety of events from outdoor cinemas to food and drink festivals and is a popular wedding venue.

One of the questions on the online questionnaire asks what uses people would like to see considered at the castle which include suggestions for a café, offices, residential accommodation, and bar.

Currently there are no plans set in stone, with a TMBC spokesman saying: "We’re running the consultation to gauge public opinion on the future of the castle.

"There are no specific plans or proposals at this stage, but any feedback will be considered as part of a review later this year."

The aim of the consultation is to better understand the needs of the visitors, community, and businesses to ensure they are involved in the decisions affecting the town's treasured landmark.

The review of Tonbridge Castle will be run in three stages, from the consultation in April through to carrying out the plans from July 2024, which will be agreed during 2023.

Cllr Des Keers, TMBC’s cabinet member for community services, said: "This consultation is a really important opportunity for us to understand the views of all people who use any part of Tonbridge Castle Estate, the general public, organisations, groups and potential future users of the castle and grounds.

"We hope that many people will take part in the consultation and help us to agree plans for the future of the castle that will enhance and safeguard its use, as well as being ever mindful of the impact on the local environment."

Matt Boughton, leader of TMBC, said: "Tonbridge Castle is the jewel in the crown of the town. It has many uses and we want to understand how best you feel the castle should be used in the future.

"That's why, for the next three months, we are asking for views to better understand the needs of visitors, businesses and community groups to sustain the castle into the future."

The consultation will run until July 21, and residents can submit their views here(https://www.tmbc.gov.uk/leisure-parks/tonbridge-castle-ground-consultation).