Leeds Castle
Last Updated on March 7, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
Leeds Castle is described as the world’s loveliest castle. If you’ve ever visited or seen photos, you’ll know why. It’s truly picturesque. Not only is the castle architecturally beautiful but it is also set in gorgeous grounds complete with peacocks, swans and geese.
What is there to do at Leeds Castle?
There are plenty of things to see and do there when you visit. Firstly there are some lovely walks around the grounds, through the trees and past the stream, where in spring you often see baby ducklings learning to paddle. Take a picnic, there are plenty of benches and spots for a picnic blanket.
Whilst you are there, you can wander through the castle and take in the exquisite décor and furnishings that used to belong to its previous owners, including the last owner, Lady Baillie. The castle has an extraordinary history, dating right back to the 1100s. Leeds Castle is also home to a dog collar museum – not something every visitor attraction can boast. For the more adventurous, there is punting, a hedge maze, Segway tours, Go Ape (additional charges), crazy golf and two kids’ playgrounds – one for the bigger kids and one for the nippers. They also run falconry displays. So check ahead and you might be lucky to see some of the birds of prey that take flight.
The Maze consists of 2,400 yew trees and when viewed from the centre, part of its plan mirrors a queen’s crown. Once you’ve reached the middle of the Maze, return to civilisation through an underworld grotto, complete with macabre forms and mythical beasts created from shells, minerals and wood. Knights Stronghold playground – Children from ages 6 to 14 can let off steam by navigating through the wooden replica of the Castle with climbing walls, fireman’s poles, giant cargo nets and zip wires. Squires’ Courtyard playground – Younger children can climb turrets, swing across zip lines, play in the sandpits and plunge down the slides.
If you are travelling from outside the local area, there are some options for an overnight stay. You can stay in their holiday cottages, book a room for bed and breakfast or even stay in a bell tent at the Knight’s Glamping village. They run a number of events, throughout the year. Some of the most popular are their fireworks, Christmas market and flower festival. Be aware though, that not all events are included in a normal entry ticket. Leeds Castle offers a year-long ticket. So once you have visited once, you can visit again at any time during the following 12 months for free.
Important Information Leeds Castle
Is there food and drink available?
Castle restaurant for light meals during the day and a full restaurant menu in the evening. The Maze Café serves grab-and-go food and drink. There are a number of kiosks serving light snacks and drinks. You can picnic outdoors.
What are the main things to do?
A Historical moated castle you can look around. Punting, a hedge maze, Segway tours, Go Ape, crazy golf and two kids’ playgrounds – one for the bigger kids and one for the nippers. They also run falconry displays. There are toilets, a restaurant, kiosks and a cafe.
What are the ticket prices?
Once you have purchased your ticket you can visit again as many times as you want for free.
Tickets are slightly cheaper online in advance. An adult ticket online costs £30, children aged 4-15 £22.50 and children under 4 are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
There is free parking.
When are they open?
Leeds Castle is open all year round apart from Christmas Day. For up-to-date opening times and dates please follow this link.
Dog friendly?
Only assistance dogs are permitted.
Are they accessible?
Guest post with thanks to Sally, the writer at Life Loving