Leeds Castle Grounds: Are They Really Free to Visit?

Leeds Castle grounds are not entirely free to visit. While you can see the exterior of the castle and its grounds without paying, access to the gardens and the castle itself requires an admission ticket. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of visiting Leeds Castle grounds and explore the costs, timings, and other important information.

Cost of Visiting Leeds Castle Grounds

leeds castle grounds free
Image Credit: Wikimedia

The cost of visiting Leeds Castle grounds varies depending on the type of ticket you purchase:

Ticket Type Online Price Onsite Price
Adult Explorer £31.50 £35
Child Explorer £22.50 £25

In addition to the standard Explorer tickets, Leeds Castle also offers family and other special tickets. It’s worth noting that visitors who travel by train, bus, or bike can enjoy a 20% discount on their admission tickets.

Timings and Opening Hours

leeds castle grounds free

The timings for visiting Leeds Castle grounds and the castle itself vary depending on the time of year:

Grounds and Gardens

  • January 1 to March 22, 2024, and October 1 to November 23, 2024: Open from 10am to 5pm (last entry 3pm)
  • March 23 to September 30, 2024: Open from 10am to 6pm (last entry 4pm)

Castle

  • January 1 to March 22, 2024, and October 1 to November 23, 2024: Open from 10:30am to 3:30pm (last entry 3pm)
  • March 23 to September 30, 2024: Open from 10:30am to 5pm (last entry 4:30pm)

Location and Directions

Leeds Castle is located 7 miles east of Maidstone, near Junction 8 of the M20 motorway. The castle’s address is Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, United Kingdom.

Value and Repeat Visits

One of the benefits of visiting Leeds Castle is that the admission tickets grant free repeat entry for 12 months. This makes it a great value for those who plan to visit the castle and its grounds multiple times throughout the year.

Conclusion

In summary, while the exterior of Leeds Castle and its grounds can be viewed without paying, accessing the gardens and the castle itself requires an admission ticket. The cost of these tickets varies depending on the time of year and the type of ticket you choose. Additionally, the castle and grounds have specific opening hours that you should be aware of before planning your visit.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a beautiful day out, Leeds Castle and its grounds offer a unique and memorable experience. With the ability to visit multiple times throughout the year, it’s a great investment for those who want to fully explore this stunning castle and its surrounding landscapes.

Reference:
Leeds Castle Official Website

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