Is Leeds Castle worth visiting?

Leeds Castle is the quintessential picture book castle, and is without doubt beautiful. Very little remains of the original interior or pre 1900 modifications so most of what you see inside is relativity modern. If you are looking to experience a medieval castle you will be disappointed.

How long does it take to tour Leeds Castle?

If you like to read about the history in the Castle and Gatehouse exhibition then you could be on the Castle Island for 1 to 2 hours. However, you could just as easily walk round in 30 minutes. There are also plenty of gardens, a Maze, Bird of Prey Centre and Falconry Displays.

Can you tour Leeds Castle?

You can visit Leeds Castle on a tour from London, giving you private entry to the castle, before it opens to the public.

What is inside Leeds Castle?

The castle and its grounds are a major leisure destination with a maze that is exited through a shell grotto, a golf course and what may be the world’s only museum of dog collars. There are two castle-themed children’s adventure play areas targeted at the under sevens and the under fourteens.

Can you get into Leeds Castle for free?

Leeds Castle is a stunning 900 year old moated castle. It is set in parkland, some of which is free to visit. The castle and grounds do require payment.

Is Leeds Castle National Trust or English Heritage?

Great British Heritage Pass includes National Trust and English Heritage sites, Welsh and Scottish sites, plus royal sites and other private places like Leeds Castle.

Can you walk around Leeds Castle for free?

There are public rights of way straight across the castle grounds that are free of charge. You need to park in Leeds itself (the village) or somewhere on the A20 between Maidstone and Harrietsham.

Why is Leeds Castle famous?

Leeds Castle is often referred to as the “Castle of Queens, Queen of Castles”. Perhaps the Castle’s most famous owner was King Henry VIII, who transformed the castle for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Later the castle was used to house French and Dutch prisoners of war.

Can you walk around Leeds Castle without paying?

Anyone can walk through the grounds of Leeds Castle whenever they like, straight past the buildings demanding payment.

Is Leeds Castle parking free?

Parking. Parking at Leeds Castle is FREE.

What’s best National Trust or English Heritage?

Although both memberships are great for history lovers, the English Heritage obviously wins this one as their portfolio focuses on historic castles and ancient ruins more than the National Trust does (which is more of a variety of everything).

Is Leeds Castle Maze free?

Visitors without tickets can walk up and acquire them on the day but it is recommended that you still booked in advance. Entry to the Castle and play areas will still be monitored. We continue to clean surfaces regularly in place such as the Castle, play areas and adventure golf.

Can you go to Leeds Castle from London?

You can visit Leeds Castle on a tour from London, giving you private entry to the castle, before it opens to the public. A great day out with the kids!

What’s the history of Leeds Castle in England?

Leeds Castle has an interesting and fascinating history. It dates back to 1119, though a manor house stood on the same site from the 9th century. Leeds Castle passed into royal hands in 1278 and became part of the Queen of England’s dower – the settlement widowed queens received upon the death of their husbands.

How is Leeds Castle different to Windsor Castle?

Unlike many castles like Windsor with its emphasis on a ‘serious’ tour of history and royalty, Leeds Castle is more informal and more set up for a longer visit with much emphasis on keeping the kids happy. The extensive grounds has many walks, there is a large aviary, falconry displays, a maze, vineyard, golf course and much else.

Who is the current owner of Leeds Castle?

Henry’s son, King Edward VI, granted the castle to one of Henry’s courtiers for his services. Since then it has been in private ownership. It was in 1926 that Olive Wilson Filmer, later to become Lady Baillie, followed in the footsteps of six of England’s medieval queens and fell under the magic spell of Leeds Castle.