Summertime at Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle
Available until 31 August 2024

Up to 5% discount with promo code DAYSOUT

Enjoy one of the best summer days out for families in Kent for your summer holidays at Leeds Castle

Head to Leeds Castle for summer days out full of family fun!

The Beach at Leeds Castle is the perfect spot for sunbathing and sandcastle building. Plus, there's a maze to get lost in, an underground Grotto to discover, and an obstacle course for adventure seekers and lots more! 

Don't miss the Birds of Prey Centre for a close encounter with magnificent birds, and explore the Wildlife Garden to spot local wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. The beautiful gardens offer a tranquil escape with diverse plants and walking routes. Inside the Castle, enjoy a self-guided tour with the Multimedia Guide.

Leeds Castle is the ultimate destination for summer family fun, offering something new with every visit!

What's on in Leeds Castle this summer?

  • Step into the 1930's and discover new unique displays in the Castle
  • Experience the Queens with Means cinematic experience
  • Learn about the Castle’s 900-years with the new multimedia guide
  • Let the little ones hunt for hidden bones at the UV Castle trail
  • Enjoy the spectacular birds of prey displays
  • Meet the majestic birds
  • Discover the fascinating Dog Collar Museum
  • Stroll through three stunning gardens
  • Venture on walks through 500 acres of parkland
  • Dream besides many streams, rivers and a moat
  • Let children’s imagination run wild at two thrilling children’s playgrounds
  • Experience the thrill of the amazing maze
  • Step down into the mythical underground grotto
  • Race to the finish line at the children’s Obstacle Course
  • Relax and unwind on the Pavilion Lawn and flop into the deckchairs
  • Embark on adventures across the estate on Elsie the Castle Train and the Black Swan Ferry
  • Challenge the family to a game of 12-hole adventure golf course
Location
Kent,
ME17 1PL
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How to find us

Broomfield, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

By car:

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. Clearly sign posted from all routes – following the brown and white tourist signs.

By train: 

We recommend travelling to Bearsted or Hollingbourne Station. Southeastern runs frequent services to and from Bearsted and a coach/taxi service run by Spot Travel is available from this station. 

By bike:

National Cycle Route 17 follows the Pilgrims’ Way to the north of Leeds Castle so you can use this from the Maidstone or Ashford direction through the village of Hollingbourne. To the south National Cycle Route 177 is also a great way to travel to Leeds Castle.

More Info
How do I get to Leeds Castle?

Leeds Castle is located in Kent, which is about an hour's drive from London. There are also regular trains from London to nearby stations, including Maidstone and Bearsted, where you can catch a bus or taxi to the castle.

What are the Leeds Castle opening times?

General Leeds Castle opening times:

  • The Castle: 10:30am to 5:30pm | Last entry 5pm
  • Grounds and Gardens: 10am to 6pm | Last entry 4:30pm
What is there to do at Leeds Castle?

Leeds Castle has a range of attractions, including the castle itself, beautiful gardens, a maze, a golf course, and a falconry display. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the castle's moat or attend one of the many events and exhibitions held throughout the year.

Is Leeds Castle suitable for families with children?

Yes, Leeds Castle is a great destination for families with children. There are plenty of activities and attractions that will keep kids entertained, including the playground, the maze, and the falconry display. The castle also hosts special events and activities for children throughout the year.

Can you bring your dog to Leeds Castle?

Assistance dogs are allowed, however, due to the abundance of wildfowl wandering freely across the estate, we regret that other dogs cannot be admitted.

How do the Leeds Castle annual passes work?

Leeds Castle admission tickets are valid for 12 months from the day you select when booking. You do not necessarily need to visit on the day you select, but your ticket will be valid from that day onwards and you can visit any day thereafter (excluding estate closures).

Why is Leeds Castle so famous?

Leeds Castle is a historic castle located in Kent, England. It has a rich history dating back over 900 years and has served as a royal palace for six medieval queens of England.

Why is Leeds Castle called Leeds Castle?

Leeds Castle is supposedly named after a 9th-century Saxon nobleman named Ledian, who built the original wooden fortress on the site around 857 AD.

Other sources suggest that it is named after "Esledes", which possibly refers to the name of a stream mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.

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