Leeds Castle, nestled in the heart of Kent, is a true gem for castle enthusiasts and families alike. This magnificent 12th-century castle, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful parkland, offers a captivating day out filled with history, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a fun-filled day with your loved ones, a visit to Leeds Castle is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Ticket Prices and Types
Exploring the wonders of Leeds Castle is made easy with a variety of ticket options to suit your needs. From the standard Explorer ticket to the more comprehensive Ultimate Explorer, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the available ticket types and their respective prices:
| Ticket Type | Online Price | Onsite Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Explorer | £31.50 | £35 |
| Adult Ultimate Explorer | £41.50 | £45 |
| Child Explorer (3-15 years) | £22.50 | £25 |
| Child Ultimate Explorer (3-15 years) | £30 | £32.50 |
| Family 1 Explorer (1 adult + up to 3 children) | £79 | £88 |
| Family 1 Ultimate Explorer (1 adult + up to 3 children) | £104 | £113 |
| Family 2 Explorer (2 adults + up to 3 children) | £104 | £116 |
| Family 2 Ultimate Explorer (2 adults + up to 3 children) | £139 | £151 |
| Adult & Carer Explorer (visitor with disability + free carer) | £27 | £32 |
| Adult & Carer Ultimate Explorer (visitor with disability + free carer) | £37 | £42 |
| Child & Carer Explorer (child with disability + free carer) | £20 | £22 |
| Child & Carer Ultimate Explorer (child with disability + free carer) | £27.50 | £29.50 |
| Infants (under 3 years) | Free | Free |
Attractions and Activities
Leeds Castle offers a wide range of attractions and activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained throughout the day. From exploring the historic castle itself to enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding parkland, there’s something for everyone.
- The Maze & Grotto: Lose yourself in the intricate hedge maze and discover the hidden grotto at its center.
- The Beach: Relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the tranquil views of the castle’s moat.
- Leeds Castle Adventure Golf: Challenge your friends and family to a round of mini-golf on the castle’s beautifully landscaped course.
- Knights’ Stronghold Playground: Let the kids burn off some energy at this exciting play area.
- Squires’ Courtyard Playground: Another fantastic playground for children to explore.
- Castle Kids Obstacle Course: Test your agility and balance on this fun obstacle course.
- Dog Collar Museum: Discover the fascinating history of dog collars in this unique museum.
- Elsie the Castle Train: Hop aboard this charming train for a scenic tour of the castle grounds.
- Bird of Prey Centre: Marvel at the impressive birds of prey during daily flying demonstrations.
- Gardens and Parkland: Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens and explore the 500 acres of parkland surrounding the castle.
- Tree Top Thrills: Embark on an aerial adventure through the treetops.
- Ferry Rides: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride across the castle’s moat.
- Circular Walking Routes: Follow the various walking trails to discover hidden gems and stunning vistas.
Special Experiences
In addition to the standard attractions, Leeds Castle also offers a range of special experiences for visitors to enjoy:
- Private Bird of Prey Experience: Get up close and personal with the castle’s magnificent birds of prey during a private session.
- Golf Course: Tee off on the castle’s 9-hole golf course, surrounded by the stunning parkland.
- Wedding Planning: Leeds Castle is a popular wedding venue, offering a truly magical setting for your special day.
- Corporate Events: The castle’s historic halls and grounds provide a unique and impressive backdrop for corporate events and functions.
- Fine Dining and Stay: Indulge in a luxurious dining experience or an overnight stay in the castle’s opulent accommodations.
- Group Visits: Leeds Castle welcomes group visits, with tailored packages and guided tours available.
Conservation Efforts
The Leeds Castle Foundation is dedicated to the ongoing conservation and restoration of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can contribute to these efforts by making donations during their ticket purchases, ensuring the preservation of this historic landmark for generations to come.
Tour Options
For those looking to explore Leeds Castle as part of a larger tour, the “Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Dover Tour” offers a full-day coach trip from London, including admission to both Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your day at Leeds Castle, it’s recommended to plan your visit in advance. The castle is open year-round, and all tickets grant free repeat entry for 12 months, allowing you to revisit and explore the grounds at your leisure.
Additional Information
Getting around the castle and its grounds is made easy with the castle train, ferry rides, and a network of circular walking routes. The proceeds from admission tickets and events help support the ongoing conservation and restoration efforts at Leeds Castle, ensuring its continued preservation for years to come.
Reference:
- https://leeds-castle.com/visit/
- https://leeds-castle.com/visit/attractions/
- https://leeds-castle.com/visit/things-to-do/
- https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Leeds-Castle-Canterbury-Cathedral-and-Dover/d737-3858EE022
- https://leeds-castle.com