Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle featuring a castle and heritage architecture
Leeds Castle showing a castle, heritage architecture and heritage elements
Leeds Castle which includes a river or creek, heritage elements and a castle
Leeds Castle which includes château or palace and interior views
Leeds Castle


Visit this grand castle on an island in a lake to see rooms decorated in medieval style, picnic in serene grounds and enjoy entertainment for all the family.

Leeds Castle is one of Kent’s most famous historic gems. It is surrounded on all sides by a picturesque lake, wildlife and scenic nature. With its museums, mazes, gardens and playgrounds, the site offers entertainment to suit visitors of almost any age.

The castle dates back to 1119 and has passed through the hands of several historical British figures, including King Edward I and King Henry VIII. Tour rooms laid out with period furniture and decoration.

Amble around 500 acres (200 hectares) of well-kept grounds. Get lost in the twists and turns of a hedge maze, then walk through the underground grotto that lies beneath. Admire the mythical deities carved into the walls of the grotto.

See birds from five different continents at the Falconry Displays and allow a hawk to land on your arm during the daily shows. Visit the Dog Collar Museum, the only collection in Britain that’s wholly dedicated to dog collars.

Take the kids to the Turf Maze, which leads to a mini castle made of wood at its center. Let youngsters explore the Knights’ Realm and Toddler’s Playground, which has towers, walls and castles to climb on.

Bring a picnic to one of many scenic spots in the parkland that surrounds the castle, including the Wood Garden, Culpeper Garden and Lady Baillie Garden.

See some of the best views of the buildings and grounds as you take a tour along the moat on a punt. Tours have a fee and are available March through October.

Leeds Castle is located 5 miles (8 kilometers) southeast of Maidstone and is a one-hour drive from London.You can also take the train from nearby towns in Kent county to Bearsted Station and then catch a coach shuttle service to the castle for a small fee.

There is an admission fee for Leeds Castle but your ticket is valid for a whole year so you can come and go as many times as you like. Children get in free on rainy days. The castle is open year-round.

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Things to do near Leeds Castle

At Leeds Castle, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including golf, spa treatments, and swimming. For those seeking adventure, the grounds offer ample opportunities for exploration, alongside designated picnic areas perfect for a relaxing day out. Don't miss the chance to attend a classic concert, adding a touch of culture to your visit. Leeds Castle promises a delightful blend of recreation and relaxation for all its guests.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Leeds Castle, visit Nucleus Arts Rochester, located 7.5km away, offering unique gifts and artworks. If you're up for a drive, the Ashford Designer Outlet, 8.1km away, features a variety of brands in a vibrant setting, perfect for souvenirs.

Recreation

At Bearsted Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes just 1.9km from Leeds Castle. For a more tranquil experience, visit White Horse Wood Country Park, 2.5km away, perfect for relaxation. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Bridgewood Manor Day Spa, located 5.0km from the castle.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Buckmore Park Karting, located 5.0km from Leeds Castle, offering an adrenaline-fueled race on its exciting track. Alternatively, enjoy the snowy slopes at Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre, also 5.0km away, perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. For water sports, head to Bewl Water Outdoor Centre, situated 9.3km away, where adventure awaits.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hazlitt Theatre, just 3.1km away, offering captivating performances. For family fun, visit Wear 'm Out arcade, 1.9km from the castle, or explore the adventurous Hop Farm Family Park, located 6.8km away, perfect for a thrilling evening out.

Find the best attractions near Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle, often called the loveliest Castle in the World, offers a blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore its magnificent grounds, historic house, and urban park. For a memorable stay, consider searching for hotels near Leeds Castle to fully immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery of Kent. The area is perfect for families and those seeking a rich cultural experience.

  • Mote Park: Located 2.5km from Leeds Castle, this urban park offers a delightful escape with its expansive green spaces, tranquil lakes, and family-friendly activities. Ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls, Mote Park encapsulates the essence of outdoor city vibes.
  • Sissinghurst Castle and Garden: A mere 5.6km away, this stunning castle is renowned for its enchanting gardens and rich cultural heritage. Sissinghurst exudes romance and tranquillity, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely visit, with beautifully designed gardens that change with the seasons.
  • Stoneacre: Just 1.2km from Leeds Castle, this historic building offers a glimpse into the past with its charming architecture and serene gardens. Stoneacre is steeped in culture, providing a peaceful atmosphere for exploration and reflection.

Best time to go to Leeds Castle

The best time to visit Leeds Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March44.2°F (6.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.2°F (9.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
June59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.7°F (15.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Leeds Castle

To save money on your visit to Leeds Castle, consider travelling during the off-peak season from December to February, when accommodation prices are lower. Thursdays are the most economical days for stays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, sorting results from lowest to highest price. Additionally, look for package deals that combine hotel bookings with flights and activities for further savings. Don't forget to explore free activities around the castle to maximise your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Leeds Castle are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Leeds Castle is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Leeds Castle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money by combining your hotel reservation at Leeds Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.