Located within more than 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, in the heart of the Kent countryside, it’s not hard to see why Leeds Castle has become known as “the loveliest castle in the world”. With around a thousand years of history to its name, it’s been a Norman stronghold, a home to kings and queens and, in the 20th century, a playground for the rich and famous. Now, as well as the historic castle itself, it also offers luxury accommodation, and a stay here is guaranteed to make you feel like royalty! Leeds Castle is located about 1 hr 20 mins from London and is accessible via Junction 8 of the M20, or if you’re travelling by train, the nearest station is Bearsted and there’s a coach shuttle to the castle between April and September.
Leeds Castle offers top class accommodation and amenities including extensive grounds and gardens and its own golf course. A wonderful setting for a country break, the stunning backdrop also makes it an ideal choice for weddings and special events.
Accommodation
Depending on what you’re after, there’s a range of accommodation available at Leeds Castle. A number of holiday cottages, situated at various locations within the grounds, offer a peaceful and private place to stay for weddings, corporate events and parties. Each one is lovingly decorated and furnished with great attention to detail and each bears its own unique character and period features. The Guard’s House, for example, sleeps up to six people and is ideally located for those who want to make the most of country pursuits and woodland walks during their stay, while the Keeper’s House and Weir Cottage overlook a weir pond. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a “Knight’s Glamping” experience – complete with four poster bed and wood burning stove – or alternatively there are two types of bed and breakfast accommodation available.
Bed and Breakfast
Beautifully refurbished to the highest standards, the former stable courtyard of the castle now serves as luxurious, spacious ensuite guest rooms. Each one benefits from a television, tea tray and complimentary toiletries. However, if you really want the full experience of staying in a castle, book a room in the Maiden’s Tower. Built in the sixteenth century, this historic building now houses five beautiful ensuite guest rooms. Each one is exquisitely decorated with the perfect combination of period details and modern comforts and boasts spectacular views of the castle and grounds. Bathrooms are stocked with luxury L’Occitane toiletries.
Restaurant
Included in your stay will be a delicious full English or Continental breakfast, made with locally sourced produce and served in the atmospheric 17th Century Fairfax Restaurant, complete with oak beamed ceiling. In the evenings, this becomes the Castle View Restaurant, and you can dine indoors or out on the terrace in warm weather. After dark, the castle is lit up, creating the most stunning setting for your meal.
Activities
It would be a great shame to stay here without exploring the castle itself, especially as access to the castle and grounds is included within the price of a stay. A guided tour will bring to life the long and fascinating history of the place, and the sumptuously decorated rooms will transport you back to various different eras including the Medieval and Tudor periods, as well as the roaring twenties under the last private owner, Lady Baillie. There are also stunning extensive grounds and gardens to explore, and kids are sure to love the maze, grotto and Bird of Prey Centre. Leeds Castle is also conveniently located for exploring the beautiful Kent countryside and is just a short drive away from many places of interest including Rochester and Canterbury.
Insider Info
There are many special events that take place throughout the year at Leeds Castle, including open air cinema screenings, food festivals and Christmas markets to name just a few. Be sure to check these out before you book if you want to take advantage.
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying at a fairytale castle, you’ll be in your element here!
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