Leeds Castle in England: history, photos, tour, how to get

Leeds Castle is an obligatory point of all excursion programs offered by UK travel agencies. This medieval building, built on two islands in the middle of the lake, at first sight strikes with the perfection of forms and how harmoniously it fits into the surrounding landscape. When tourists find out in what century the castle was built, emotions overwhelm literally everyone: after all, its history has been going on since 857. fortress. At first it was wooden, then it was rebuilt a lot, and it acquired its final form in the 14th century.

Story

For the first time, Leeds Castle was recorded as a new object during the census of lands and people living on them, conducted at the end of the 11th century (1085 -1086) at the initiative of William the Conqueror. All the data obtained during this event was entered into a folio that has come down to the present and is called the “Book of the Blown Day”. Note that it was in England that the rulers for the first time became concerned about the number of lands available in the state and the subjects living on them.

The wooden fortress became stone in 1119. Later on, the following people were involved in its transformation: Edward Long-legged (in 1278 he settled his wife Eleanor of Castile here), Edward II, who seized the estate with all his children and household members (then they were sent to the Tower), Henry VIII, who began altering the building, to move his next wife (Catherine of Aragon) there for the duration of the new divorce proceedings.

In Leeds, many events took place that entered the history of the country. In particular, in the 14th century it began to be used as the residence of the English queens – from 1327. In those days, the royal spouses lived separately. At this time, the castle was presented to Queen Isabella, and since then many people have been there who have gone down in history.

In 1395, Richard II chose this castle to communicate with the then-famous French historian Jean Froissart (this meeting was later recorded in the writer's chronicles). Elizabeth, who later became the Queen of England, was sent here under house arrest, Catherine of Valois (wife of Henry the Fifth) often visited the castle. Leeds remained the Royal Palace until 1552.

In 1926 Leeds Castle became the property of the Bailey family. The new owners again began rebuilding, but it concerned mainly the inside of the building. Lady Olive Bailey completely changed everything that was there, but at the same time she collected priceless collections of antiques: furniture, paintings, ceramics (including Chinese porcelain of the 18th century). Under the new owner, the rooms and other premises used by eminent owners were put in order.

Some rooms (such as the “Queen's Bedroom” and the “Queen's Bathroom”) have been given their original appearance – they have become as they were in the 15th century: cozy, elegant and a little romantic. Under this lady, a charitable foundation was also organized, the purpose of which is to raise funds for the maintenance of the historic building and the park surrounding it.

Excursion to Leeds Castle

The castle is visible from afar. It is located on islands formed on the River Len, approximately 4.5 km from the city of Maidston and 64 km southeast of London. The place was not chosen by chance: during the war, food and ammunition could be delivered here quickly and without problems, which ensured the safety of all those living in the castle. This was also facilitated by the fact that the castle was defended by 4 forts at once – from all over the world. Moreover, each of them was capable of independent defense.

First, tourists find themselves at the entrance gate, above which there is a defensive tower. A stone bridge leads to the castle itself (it used to be wooden), resting against a high (15 feet) stone wall with two more defensive structures (maiden and water towers).

Having overcome all these obstacles, travelers finally find themselves inside the estate. Here they are greeted with a honey drink: travelers are surprised to learn that mead, it turns out, was brewed not only in Russia. According to those who sipped the drink, they experienced a delightful sensation, not at all like those that arise after drinking ordinary alcoholic beverages: pleasant warmth and a heightened perception of everything that happens.

Leeds castle park

This is 500 acres of land on which centuries-old trees grow and where you can see firsthand what the British are so proud of – a real English lawn. Here you can try to overcome a labyrinth made up of three thousand yews, visit a huge poultry house (it contains only the rarest representatives of birds). There are other interesting places, one of which, no doubt, will appeal to dog lovers – the Collar Museum. In it you can see dog collars that were used as far back as the 15th century.

How and when to visit Leeds Castle

The castle was opened for visitors in 1976. Since then, it has been open every day: in summer, the castle is open from 10.00 to 17.00, and in winter – until 15.00.

You will have to pay for a visit: a ticket for adults costs ?18.50, for children under 15 years old – ?11.00.

The castle can be reached by train from London from London Kings Cross station (journey time – about 2.5 hours). From the station to the desired location is approximately 6 km.

It should be borne in mind that Leeds Castle is often chosen for various public events: conferences, party conventions, etc. are held here. You can also rent a castle to organize any festive events – weddings or anniversaries.

Every month (on the first Saturday of the month) a party is held in the castle, where guests are treated to cocktails and a variety of snacks. In June and July, world-famous performers give concerts at Leeds Castle: they take place in an open area.

Climate

Kent is located in the southeast of the UK. This is the place where at one time the Celts lived, faced with the attack of the Romans. All this left an imprint on the culture of the region, which is confirmed by the historical objects that have remained since then. The castle is surrounded by deciduous and pine forests. The climate in this region is mild, there is practically no snow in winter.

Leeds Castle on the map

Did our article inspire you to plan a trip to England? Then be sure to read interesting facts about this country.