An unusual find was made by volunteers clearing the shallow lake near Chiddingstone Castle. While removing fallen branches, they noticed a metallic object at the bottom. They managed to extract it from the water using a hook. The sword was handed over to the castle curator, Naomi Collic. Specialists are currently trying to determine its age and origin. The find has already been unofficially dubbed the "Excalibur of Kent," comparing it to the legendary sword of King Arthur. According to one preliminary version, it may be a ceremonial sword of a military musician, made in the early 19th century. The lake itself appeared in the 1800s, so researchers believe that the weapon may have been in it for no more than two centuries. The gilded handle, featuring a lion at the end, is best preserved, presumably made of brass. The curved blade is in significantly worse condition — it is covered with a thick layer of rust and lake deposits. To avoid damaging the artifact, castle staff wrapped it in special acid-free paper and only touch the find while wearing gloves. However, there are other versions of how the sword ended up in the lake. One of the castle's owners was art dealer and collector Denis Air Bauer, who collected antique cold weapons, among other things. It is possible that the find once belonged to him. Another version links the sword to military personnel who were stationed in the area during World War II. The true origin of the "Excalibur of Kent" is yet to be established by experts. However, the find has already become one of the most unusual mysteries of Chiddingstone Castle: the extreme heat literally helped bring to the surface an object that had been hidden at the bottom of the lake for possibly around 200 years.