Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle in Kent, England, is an essential stop on any Britain visit. Unmistakably English, tourists love this iconic British attraction and the English heritage that it represents. Visit Leeds Castle plus over 580 more UK heritage attractions with the Great British Heritage Pass.

Leeds Castle is one of England's most picturesque castles, often described as the ‘loveliest castle in the world.’  It is set on two islands and has been home to royalty, lords, and ladies for over 1000 years. 

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.  It has been used as a garrison, a prison, and a convalescent home, and the Fairfax, Culpepper, and Wykeham Martin families have all lived there.  Leeds Castle passed into royal hands in 1278, and over the course of 150 years was held by six medieval queens.  Henry VIII was also known to visit the castle frequently.

The last private owner of Leeds Castle was Lady Baillie, who purchased it in 1926.  Lad Baillie refurbished its interior, working with the Paris decorator Stéphane Boudin to transform the castle into an elegant country residence, which she opened to the public in 1976. 

Today you can enjoy the beauty of Leeds Castle, which is the result of 900 years of alterations and changes.  Explore the castle itself as you walk across the stone bridge, which would have originally been a wooden drawbridge.  The Castle itself has Norman foundations, a medieval gatehouse, a Tudor tower, and a 19th century country house.

There are many other interesting attractions to explore at Leeds Castle during your visit.  Be sure to visit the Duckery, which has black swans originally imported from Australia by Lady Baillie herself.  The black swans are also the symbol of the castle.  Amongst the grounds there is also a golf course, where you can play a game if you desire! 

The Aviary allows you to see some exotic birds, which Lady Baillie kept for much of her life.  There are over 100 species from all over the world.  You can also see Falconry displays, where buzzards, eagles, falcons, hawks, vultures, and owls entertain visitors.  You may even have the chance to see Jack, the only free-flying Augur Buzzard in the UK. 

After visiting the birds of Leeds Castle, get lost in the spiraling yew maze, where you end up coming back out through an underworld grotto, complete with macabre forms and mythical beasts created from shells, minerals, and wood. 

Think you’ve seen everything there is to see at Leeds Castle?  Be sure not to miss the Dog Collar Museum, the only museum of its kind in Great Britain.  The collection of dog collars spans five centuries, from collars for the great hunting dogs of the past, to canine couture for the 21st century. 

Leeds Castle also has its own vineyard, whose grapes are harvested to make Leeds Castle wine.  You can also book hot air balloon flight and enjoy stunning views over the Kent countryside.

Planning your visit to Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is open from 10.30 - 16.00 daily until March 31 (last admission 15.30). Opening hours are extended during the Summer months.