Leeds Castle
Set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland, a visit to Leeds Castle in the garden of England is full of discovery. Open all year round, its special blend of heritage and history, glorious gardens, attractions, programme of events, and licensed restaurant make it the perfect choice for a day out.
Visitors are transported through the castle’s history; an eclectic mix of period architecture, with sumptuous interiors and family treasures.
The castle you see today is the result of over 900 years of alterations and changes. It has Norman foundations; a mediaeval gatehouse; the Gloriette, built by Edward I and updated in Henry VIII’s times; a Tudor tower; and a 19th century country house - all of which were substantially refurbished in the 20th century.
The Saxon manor of Esledes was an ideal place for the descendant of one of William the Conqueror’s lords, Robert de Crevecoeur, to fortify and build a castle in 1119.
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. Over the course of 150 years it was held by six mediaeval queens: Eleanor of Castile; Margaret of France; Isabella of France, Joan of Navarre; Anne of Bohemia and Catherine de Valois.
Internationally renowned aviaries offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of modern conservation and captive breeding programmes. Swans glide on the moat and waterways, peacocks wander through the grounds and birds of prey soar on the wind during our new World of Wings Shows.
The gardens offer continuous colour throughout the year. From a mass of spring bulbs and wild flowers in the Wood Garden, through fragrant herbs and roses in the quintessentially English Culpeper Garden, to late flowering borders in the drought-resistant Mediterranean Lady Baillie Garden.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Opening Times
Open all year round.
Closed to day visitors on 6th and 7th November
and Christmas Day 2010.
| Admission Prices - 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011 |
| Adults |
£17.50 |
Senior Citizens (over 60yrs)
Students & Visitors with Disabilities |
£15.00 |
| Children (4-15yrs) |
£10.00 |
All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
1 April to 30 September 2010 (Summer)
Open: 10am daily
Last ticket sold (last entry): 4.30pm
Gates close at 6pm
Castle Opening Times
Open: 10.30am-5.30pm
Last entry to the castle is at 5pm
We regret no dogs can be admitted except for guide dogs or hearing dogs.
We accept the following:-
• Mastercard
• Visa
• Sterling Cheques
• Euros (Notes only)
• Leeds Castle Gift Vouchers
Unfortunately we do not accept:
Amex, Electron, Solo or
Diners cards
Please note that due to space restrictions, and the fragile interiors, pushchairs cannot be permitted inside the castle.
Visitors with babies will find slings available inside the castle front hall.
Castle rooms: Whilst we try to keep the private rooms of the castle open to visitors when we can, not all rooms may be open at all times.
Visitors with Disabilities
At Leeds Castle we endeavour to ensure that all visitors have an enjoyable experience.
A carer visits for free with every disabled person. Most of the castle and its grounds are accessible.
By road
7 miles east of Maidstone, Junction 8 of the M20 motorway just 1 hour from London, 30 minutes from the Channel Tunnel and Channel Ports.
Dartford River Crossing 30 minutes.
Clearly sign posted from all routes - following the brown and white tourist signs.
By Train:
Closest station is Bearsted.
Southeastern runs frequent services to and from Bearsted and a coach shuttle service run by Spot Hire is available from the station.
FACILITIES:
Eating and Drinking:
You will find the Fairfax Restaurant serving a varied choice of dishes in the courtyard. Light refreshments can also be obtained from the seasonal kiosks in the courtyard, near the Park Shop and at the Maze.
During winter months only the Fairfax Restaurant will be open
Shopping:
Browse in the two shops for a memento of your visit to Leeds Castle.
Euros are accepted in the shops. Tell me more about the Leeds Castle shops..
Facilities:
There are toilet facilities with disabled access and baby changing facilities across the estate.
Land Train
A land train service operates to various stops around the estate.
This service has wheelchair access and priority will be given to these visitors.
Parking:
Parking at Leeds Castle is free of charge.
Parking is at the owners risk and Leeds Castle accepts no responsibility for damaged caused to vehicles parked within the estate.
Dedicated, free, hard-standing coach parking is 2 minutes walk to the visitor reception area. The coach park is stewarded with experienced staff.
Dogs:
We regret no dogs can be admitted except for guide dogs or hearing dogs.
Photography
Photography is permitted in the castle, with the exception of the Chapel and special exhibitions.
Address:
Leeds Castle
Maidstone
Kent
ME17 1PL