Leeds Castle
Broomfield, Maidstone, Kent
The 12th-century Leeds Castle is among Europe’s best preserved medieval landmarks, with more than nine centuries of history represented in the building and grounds. Sprawled over 500 acres (202 hectares) and surrounded by a regal moat, the stone castle and its gardens offer a peek into the past as well as a variety of present-day, quintessentially English events and activities.
Easily accessible from London, Leeds Castle is a popular and convenient day-trip destination that’s ideal for history buffs, birdwatchers, and families. Explore the castle’s medieval tapestries, furnishings, and art, as well as the estate's outdoor maze, Bird of Prey Centre, golf course, underground grotto, and formal gardens. Many full-day group and private tours from London also include nearby attractions such as the White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury.
All tickets grant entry for one year from the time of purchase, allowing for multiple visits.
Families with kids can visit the onsite Squires’ Court Playground (ages 6 and under) and Knights’ Realm Playground (ages 7 and up) for royal fun.
Rain is not unusual in England, so bring waterproof gear if you plan to be outdoors.
Complimentary transport service within the grounds is available for those with limited mobility. The castle interior cannot accommodate strollers.
Fee-based castle audio tours are available in six languages.
Birdwatchers should look out for black swans, great spotted woodpeckers, and kingfishers, which are often seen around the castle.
Leeds Castle is situated in Kent, England, one hour from central London and 7 miles (11 kilometers) southeast of Maidstone. It’s a 30-minute drive from the Channel Tunnel and Channel Ports, with signs directing drivers to the castle on all routes. To get around the grounds, visitors can cross the moat on a punt boat ride, cross the Great Water from the castle to the maze on the Black Swan Ferry, or ride Elsie the Castle Train from the entrance to the castle (all require additional fees).
The castle is open daily from mid-morning until the late afternoon from October to March. From April to September, the castle stays open a little later, but last entry is always 30 minutes before closing. The grounds and gardens have slightly longer hours. Weekend afternoons are the castle’s busiest time; weekday visits are much quieter.
In addition to Leeds Castle, some of England’s finest sights can be found in South West England, from Canterbury Cathedral to the famous Cliffs of Dover. Most tours cover the top sights and also stop at the outer London borough of Greenwich, known for its maritime history, the Royal Naval College, and the historic British clipper ship, the Cutty Sark.
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