Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle
4.5
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
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10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Visitors never forget their first breath-taking vision of Leeds Castle in Kent, rising majestically from the moat. With its riveting history serving six of England’s medieval queens, to its elaborate transformation into an elegant 20th-century retreat by Anglo-American heiress, Lady Baillie, Leeds Castle’s rich heritage has secured its place as one of the most visited historic attractions in Britain. There’s plenty for all to enjoy, from exploring the Princess Alexandra Gardens and savouring afternoon teas, to watching in awe as the Birds of Prey fly overhead and challenging the family to a game of adventure golf. For those looking to stay longer, Leeds Castle has a selection of picturesque staycation experiences, from the cosy Stable Courtyard and Maiden’s Tower, to Holiday Cottages perched along the water’s edge.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
Features animals
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Improve this listingAdmission tickets
from $50.64
All you need to step foot in the door.
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The area
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Restaurants
36 within 3 miles
Attractions
57 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- sa1gonLondon, United Kingdom1,055 contributionsExcellent value for moneyWe visited on 30 March, we expected it to be busy, as it was a very hot day. We hadn't been for more than 10 years, although we only live a few miles away. When we last visited my husband wasn't disabled but now he has mobility issues but we wanted to give it a try, especially as we had purchased a ticket valid for 16 months. This visit was excellent my husband was looked after very well with his disability and allowances were certainly made for it. Due to COVID only the grounds were open but we knew this when we booked. It appears the old shop in the Courtyard has gone, which will be disappointing. I believe the Dog Collar Museum has improved but I won't know until COVID allows reopening before it was a bit odd. It is a shame the aviary has gone. The gardens looked wonderful but I am not sure about the children's castle themed soft play area, I guess it attracts families but it looks a bit cheap. The crazy golf seems a good idea. There seems to be a lot of comments on here about social distancing. However, this is all outdoors and I feel people have to take responsibly for their own social distancing. There was social distancing in the ice- cream queue and I think 2 Mr Whippy ice-creams with flakes and a Bottle of Diet Coke was not unreasonable at £8.10. We had a most enjoyable couple of hours and we will be back with friends to show off this local attraction.Thank you for your review, so pleased you have returned after 10 years! The Dog Collar Museum has been vastly improved since your last visit so do pop in next time. Although the shop in the courtyard has gone we do now have three shops, one at the main entrance, one at the Castle and another by the playgrounds. Although the Aviaries have gone the Bird of Prey centre is much bigger than before and houses over 30 birds of prey so do take a look on your next visit. There are also daily falconry shows in the summer months. We look forward to returning with your 15-month tickets soon, especially as more attractions and the Castle will be reopening soon.Written April 9, 2021This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2021Written April 2, 2021
- Jason TAdelaide, Australia569 contributionsAmazing Castle, Accommodation, Staff and GroundsOur trip here was also inclusive of a two night stay in their accommodation and we stayed in the Niven room, it was clean and spacious and added to our overall experience visiting this amazing historic property. It was reasonably priced and if you are looking for something a little different to your usual hotel experience, then here it is. Please note that the access is towards the rear of the property near the golf course and not the front gates. A benefit of staying on site is that you can wander the grounds when the gates are closed (not the Castle) which is a nice touch and feels like you to have the place to yourself. The staff here are first class and those we had the pleasure of meeting ensured our visit was both pleasurable and informative.The Castle has such an amazing story to tell and on that note, I was truly impressed by the knowledge of the staff we met within the various rooms. It really reflected their passion for / in the history of this historic site and we had some very in depth conversations especially as we were exiting the Castle and then with the ladies in their shop. My partner was particularly taken by the more recent history and the story of Lady Baillie who certainly left her mark and ensured the Castles future was left in good hands. We did eat at the restaurant once and will say the food was of a high standard, and we also had breakfast twice and again the same applied. The staff here too were also friendly and helpful so all good. We visited the Dog Collar Museum which was also interesting, it is opposite the restaurant. If you like historic buildings and learning more about history both past and more recent, then this is an excellent example to consider and is made all the better by those who have chosen to help make your visit a memorable one.Thank you for taking the time to review Leeds Castle and for writing such positive feedback. We are delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your stay. I look forward to sharing your feedback with the rest of the team. We hope you will visit Leeds Castle again soon and that you will share your experience with friends and family. Best RegardsWritten February 3, 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2020Written January 29, 2020
- Dominic W30 contributionsHighly reccomendwe stayed overnight in the stable block apartments, it was lovely, superb view, incredibly comfortable bed and very cosy considering there was a gale blowing outside. We ate at a local pub as we found the on site restaurant menu rather limited but the tour of the castle which was included in the price was fascinating. I would recommend a visit as the package was very good value for money and the white peacocks are a sight to behold. For me the only negative was breakfast, I found the coffee very week and found a half mushroom slightly stingy, but apart from this it was a great place to stay.Thank you for your review. We will pass your feedback onto our catering team.Written October 30, 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2020Written October 25, 2020
- LNB12 contributionsPoorBooked to take my children here yesterday. Our annual ticked expired in July so I assumed that we would have the 3 months we were unable to attend would be given to us once it opened again. When I got to the counter the man said we couldn’t enter unless we bought another 12 month pass, and then we would get the 3 months back that we missed out on! So basically we would have to buy another yearly pass to get back what have already paid for, so we’ve paid for a 12 month pass and only got 9 months! Really really poor! We won’t be buying another annual pass on this basis, I don’t understand how you can think that this ok?Visited September 2020Traveled with familyWritten September 28, 2020
- Jjdaisyduke13 contributionsVery disappointing stayHaving stayed yesterday evening at Leeds castle I wanted to take the time to share my disappointment with you. We arrived yesterday afternoon and the room was lovely, my parents had a small double, but again, very nicely Presented. We went for a wander around the grounds, and had a table Booked for 7.15 in the castle restaurant. Our experience in the restaurant was a let down from the outset. Nobody came back to offer us a drink for 20 minutes. The menu was poor with hardly any options, and the drinks took another 20 minutes to come, and they returned with a bottle Of white wine instead of red. Eventually we got our drink. The service was slow throughout with us approaching the bar numerous times ourselves to get another drink. One waitress even forgot us after taking our order and never returned! The food is very overpriced as is the drink. We later ordered 2 mojitos which arrived with flat soda and blacked mint leaves, they were so bad we had to send them back. We ordered the baileys bomb to share for dessert which was nothing short of laughable. It could Not be shared due to the tiny size and not even enough for one! It was honestly one of the worst restaurant experiences I’ve had and cost me little under £200 for four of us. Back at the room the bed was comfy for the evening but the heating was on full blast and the room was unbearable so we had to have the window open. In the morning, there was no hot water in any of our rooms. We couldn’t even shower there and walk around the grounds in daytime due to feeling so disgusting. On going into reception to tell them, we had half an hour before our actual check out, and all we were told is “sorry about that, here’s a 10% voucher if you want to come back”...that ruined our second day and the party just wanted to go home and shower. The break cost me little under £500 and was meant to be a rare treat for my parents. I have left feeling very disheartened and very disappointed. Further more, as season ticket holders, I will not be renewing them.Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to review Leeds Castle. I'm sorry to hear you are disappointed with your stay, the Accommodation Manager has since been in contact with you via email.Written January 20, 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten January 12, 2020
- Angie_K_78Kent, United Kingdom20 contributionsLong queue to get in!Lovely place if you like walking, beautiful scenery, shaded walk up to the castle... But even though they have allocated a certain amount of people at each time slot there was a huge 40 minute queue just to get in!! I had two toddlers in tow who were moody and grumpy because of the long wait. Can’t say I blame them. They are letting in far too many people at each time slot if they can’t cope with entrance system. Certainly put me in a bad mood before we even got in!. Also, they haven’t got the train running back to the car park, and considering the play area for kids is a very long way from the entrance, it was so painful getting them back at the end of the day! Just be aware of this if you haven’t been before and you are going with kids.Thank you for your feedback. There are sometimes queues to enter the grounds, but we have reduced the amount of visitors per time slot and our overall capacity is signifcantly reduced from our normal levels due to social distancing measures. The Castle Train is not in oepration yet, but we hope to start running it again soon, when we can safely do so.Written August 21, 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2020Traveled with familyWritten August 16, 2020
- Chloe S1 contributionNot what it used to beIt’s a tough to write because I have loved Leeds castle for so long having grown up in the area and been a regular visitor for over 10 years. I can I imagine new visitors are still impressed because visually it really is still wonderful. Even though there hasn’t been a single update inside the castle in years..literally nothing new to see. In 10 years. I still come hoping things will improve but sadly everytime I’ve come it’s gotten worse 😫 So this it’s what’s driven me to leave this review: The food and drink. Costa has gone..in my opinion an error. Unless you want to eat a full sit down meal (regardless of covid) you are unwelcome in the restaurant. For a sandwich or tea and cake it’s take away and find a bench. (They are NEVER free..even at 1pm on a drizzly Thursday they are all full) I say “cake” it’s plastic packaged muffins or chocolate twist for £2.50. As for the coffee...one size (about the same as a small in Costa) and it’s £3. Bottle of water is £2..sandwich in a box that you have to walk off with £4.50. The restaurant used to do pots of tea and scones and jam or their lovely laminating cakes were ideal for an afternoon at Leeds castle. They had big tables of fresh cakes that were just excellent. It really is so disappointing. I know times are hard but charging that much for tiny coffees and plastic wrapped cakes with little choice to sit outside on benches (if you can) is a far cry for the Leeds castle I used to know. Hopefully this isn’t permanent and the restaurant will change its menu once restrictions ease? Just my opinion as a lately- repeatedly disappointed regular.Visited July 2021Traveled with friendsWritten July 15, 2021
- LondonLadyCleveland, Ohio2,288 contributionsBeautiful CastleWe took the Train from Victoria to Bearsted to visit Leeds Castle. I would recommend calling ahead for a taxi as we waited about 25 minutes for the shuttle to come and take us to Leeds and no Uber was picking up our request. The shuttle is only 2.50 pounds so that makes it economical. We toured the castle and the grounds are lovely. Lots of things for kids to do including a maze and a huge playyard, plus walking the grounds. The Castle itself is geared toward business conferences or weddings, do touring it is a bit more modern and less ornate than what you see at Windsor or at Warwick. The rooms were redone in the 1930-1950's for the high society set and those are the rooms you tour. We enjoyed our meal in the restaurant Fish and Chips and Meat pies - all very good. Nice gift shop too..Dear Visitor, Your positive comments are greatly appreciated and we thank you for taking the time to review Leeds Castle. Feedback is very important to us and we are thrilled that you enjoyed your visit. We hope to welcome you again in the future.Written January 21, 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2020Written January 12, 2020
- TwixpeaksRochester, United Kingdom33 contributionsLeeds CastleThe castle grounds are well kept and pretty and now have a one-way system due to Covid. The entrance ticket is expensive but it allows you access to the castle & grounds for 12 months. There are a lot of bird droppings and if you take a picnic the ducks and jackdaws taunt you for food. Crossing the lake on the boat costs £1 per person and is a thrill for young children. The aviary has a good number of birds if prey and their volunteer keepers are very knowledgeable. Young children enjoy the playground and play swords and archery sets that are sold in the castle shops.Thank you for your review, hope to welcome you back again soon.Written May 7, 2021This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2021Traveled with familyWritten May 3, 2021
- Bradley21marchDoncaster, United Kingdom8 contributionsTotal LetdownWent several years ago, and loved it. Now,, what a letdown. Arrived and first task visit the ladies toilet. It was filthy, water, paper, all over the floor, Soiled basins. A visitor said 'They have just charged us as a family £99 and this is what we get.' It was £28 per person, to go in, We queued 20 mins. for a coffee, one poor lady on her own trying to make and serve snacks and coffee, no one to clear tables, the floor area was covered in litter. Advertised as the finest castle in England, It doesn't matter how fine it is, if the entry and reception areas leave visitors with such a bad taste, and the high price of entry they will soon find visitors doing what we did, we simply left.Visited August 2021Written August 31, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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sa1gon
London, UK1,055 contributions
Mar 2021
We visited on 30 March, we expected it to be busy, as it was a very hot day. We hadn't been for more than 10 years, although we only live a few miles away.
When we last visited my husband wasn't disabled but now he has mobility issues but we wanted to give it a try, especially as we had purchased a ticket valid for 16 months.
This visit was excellent my husband was looked after very well with his disability and allowances were certainly made for it. Due to COVID only the grounds were open but we knew this when we booked. It appears the old shop in the Courtyard has gone, which will be disappointing. I believe the Dog Collar Museum has improved but I won't know until COVID allows reopening before it was a bit odd. It is a shame the aviary has gone. The gardens looked wonderful but I am not sure about the children's castle themed soft play area, I guess it attracts families but it looks a bit cheap. The crazy golf seems a good idea.
There seems to be a lot of comments on here about social distancing. However, this is all outdoors and I feel people have to take responsibly for their own social distancing. There was social distancing in the ice- cream queue and I think 2 Mr Whippy ice-creams with flakes and a Bottle of Diet Coke was not unreasonable at £8.10.
We had a most enjoyable couple of hours and we will be back with friends to show off this local attraction.
When we last visited my husband wasn't disabled but now he has mobility issues but we wanted to give it a try, especially as we had purchased a ticket valid for 16 months.
This visit was excellent my husband was looked after very well with his disability and allowances were certainly made for it. Due to COVID only the grounds were open but we knew this when we booked. It appears the old shop in the Courtyard has gone, which will be disappointing. I believe the Dog Collar Museum has improved but I won't know until COVID allows reopening before it was a bit odd. It is a shame the aviary has gone. The gardens looked wonderful but I am not sure about the children's castle themed soft play area, I guess it attracts families but it looks a bit cheap. The crazy golf seems a good idea.
There seems to be a lot of comments on here about social distancing. However, this is all outdoors and I feel people have to take responsibly for their own social distancing. There was social distancing in the ice- cream queue and I think 2 Mr Whippy ice-creams with flakes and a Bottle of Diet Coke was not unreasonable at £8.10.
We had a most enjoyable couple of hours and we will be back with friends to show off this local attraction.
Written April 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review, so pleased you have returned after 10 years!
The Dog Collar Museum has been vastly improved since your last visit so do pop in next time. Although the shop in the courtyard has gone we do now have three shops, one at the main entrance, one at the Castle and another by the playgrounds.
Although the Aviaries have gone the Bird of Prey centre is much bigger than before and houses over 30 birds of prey so do take a look on your next visit. There are also daily falconry shows in the summer months.
We look forward to returning with your 15-month tickets soon, especially as more attractions and the Castle will be reopening soon.
Written April 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jason T
Adelaide, Australia569 contributions
Jan 2020
Our trip here was also inclusive of a two night stay in their accommodation and we stayed in the Niven room, it was clean and spacious and added to our overall experience visiting this amazing historic property. It was reasonably priced and if you are looking for something a little different to your usual hotel experience, then here it is. Please note that the access is towards the rear of the property near the golf course and not the front gates. A benefit of staying on site is that you can wander the grounds when the gates are closed (not the Castle) which is a nice touch and feels like you to have the place to yourself.
The staff here are first class and those we had the pleasure of meeting ensured our visit was both pleasurable and informative.The Castle has such an amazing story to tell and on that note, I was truly impressed by the knowledge of the staff we met within the various rooms. It really reflected their passion for / in the history of this historic site and we had some very in depth conversations especially as we were exiting the Castle and then with the ladies in their shop. My partner was particularly taken by the more recent history and the story of Lady Baillie who certainly left her mark and ensured the Castles future was left in good hands.
We did eat at the restaurant once and will say the food was of a high standard, and we also had breakfast twice and again the same applied. The staff here too were also friendly and helpful so all good. We visited the Dog Collar Museum which was also interesting, it is opposite the restaurant.
If you like historic buildings and learning more about history both past and more recent, then this is an excellent example to consider and is made all the better by those who have chosen to help make your visit a memorable one.
The staff here are first class and those we had the pleasure of meeting ensured our visit was both pleasurable and informative.The Castle has such an amazing story to tell and on that note, I was truly impressed by the knowledge of the staff we met within the various rooms. It really reflected their passion for / in the history of this historic site and we had some very in depth conversations especially as we were exiting the Castle and then with the ladies in their shop. My partner was particularly taken by the more recent history and the story of Lady Baillie who certainly left her mark and ensured the Castles future was left in good hands.
We did eat at the restaurant once and will say the food was of a high standard, and we also had breakfast twice and again the same applied. The staff here too were also friendly and helpful so all good. We visited the Dog Collar Museum which was also interesting, it is opposite the restaurant.
If you like historic buildings and learning more about history both past and more recent, then this is an excellent example to consider and is made all the better by those who have chosen to help make your visit a memorable one.
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to review Leeds Castle and for writing such positive feedback. We are delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your stay. I look forward to sharing your feedback with the rest of the team.
We hope you will visit Leeds Castle again soon and that you will share your experience with friends and family.
Best Regards
Written February 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dominic W
30 contributions
Oct 2020
we stayed overnight in the stable block apartments, it was lovely, superb view, incredibly comfortable bed and very cosy considering there was a gale blowing outside. We ate at a local pub as we found the on site restaurant menu rather limited but the tour of the castle which was included in the price was fascinating. I would recommend a visit as the package was very good value for money and the white peacocks are a sight to behold. For me the only negative was breakfast, I found the coffee very week and found a half mushroom slightly stingy, but apart from this it was a great place to stay.
Written October 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We will pass your feedback onto our catering team.
Written October 30, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LNB
12 contributions
Sep 2020 • Family
Booked to take my children here yesterday. Our annual ticked expired in July so I assumed that we would have the 3 months we were unable to attend would be given to us once it opened again. When I got to the counter the man said we couldn’t enter unless we bought another 12 month pass, and then we would get the 3 months back that we missed out on! So basically we would have to buy another yearly pass to get back what have already paid for, so we’ve paid for a 12 month pass and only got 9 months! Really really poor! We won’t be buying another annual pass on this basis, I don’t understand how you can think that this ok?
Written September 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jjdaisyduke
13 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Having stayed yesterday evening at Leeds castle I wanted to take the time to share my disappointment with you.
We arrived yesterday afternoon and the room was lovely, my parents had a small double, but again, very nicely Presented. We went for a wander around the grounds, and had a table Booked for 7.15 in the castle restaurant.
Our experience in the restaurant was a let down from the outset. Nobody came back to offer us a drink for 20 minutes. The menu was poor with hardly any options, and the drinks took another 20 minutes to come, and they returned with a bottle
Of white wine instead of red. Eventually we got our drink. The service was slow throughout with us approaching the bar numerous times ourselves to get another drink. One waitress even forgot us after taking our order and never returned! The food is very overpriced as is the drink. We later ordered 2 mojitos which arrived with flat soda and blacked mint leaves, they were so bad we had to send them back.
We ordered the baileys bomb to share for dessert which was nothing short of laughable. It could
Not be shared due to the tiny size and not even enough for one! It was honestly one of the worst restaurant experiences I’ve had and cost me little under £200 for four of us.
Back at the room the bed was comfy for the evening but the heating was on full blast and the room was unbearable so we had to have the window open. In the morning, there was no hot water in any of our rooms. We couldn’t even shower there and walk around the grounds in daytime due to feeling so disgusting. On going into reception to tell them, we had half an hour before our actual check out, and all we were told is “sorry about that, here’s a 10% voucher if you want to come back”...that ruined our second day and the party just wanted to go home and shower.
The break cost me little under £500 and was meant to be a rare treat for my parents. I have left feeling very disheartened and very disappointed. Further more, as season ticket holders, I will not be renewing them.
We arrived yesterday afternoon and the room was lovely, my parents had a small double, but again, very nicely Presented. We went for a wander around the grounds, and had a table Booked for 7.15 in the castle restaurant.
Our experience in the restaurant was a let down from the outset. Nobody came back to offer us a drink for 20 minutes. The menu was poor with hardly any options, and the drinks took another 20 minutes to come, and they returned with a bottle
Of white wine instead of red. Eventually we got our drink. The service was slow throughout with us approaching the bar numerous times ourselves to get another drink. One waitress even forgot us after taking our order and never returned! The food is very overpriced as is the drink. We later ordered 2 mojitos which arrived with flat soda and blacked mint leaves, they were so bad we had to send them back.
We ordered the baileys bomb to share for dessert which was nothing short of laughable. It could
Not be shared due to the tiny size and not even enough for one! It was honestly one of the worst restaurant experiences I’ve had and cost me little under £200 for four of us.
Back at the room the bed was comfy for the evening but the heating was on full blast and the room was unbearable so we had to have the window open. In the morning, there was no hot water in any of our rooms. We couldn’t even shower there and walk around the grounds in daytime due to feeling so disgusting. On going into reception to tell them, we had half an hour before our actual check out, and all we were told is “sorry about that, here’s a 10% voucher if you want to come back”...that ruined our second day and the party just wanted to go home and shower.
The break cost me little under £500 and was meant to be a rare treat for my parents. I have left feeling very disheartened and very disappointed. Further more, as season ticket holders, I will not be renewing them.
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Guest,
Thank you for taking the time to review Leeds Castle. I'm sorry to hear you are disappointed with your stay, the Accommodation Manager has since been in contact with you via email.
Written January 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Angie_K_78
Kent, UK20 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Lovely place if you like walking, beautiful scenery, shaded walk up to the castle...
But even though they have allocated a certain amount of people at each time slot there was a huge 40 minute queue just to get in!! I had two toddlers in tow who were moody and grumpy because of the long wait. Can’t say I blame them. They are letting in far too many people at each time slot if they can’t cope with entrance system.
Certainly put me in a bad mood before we even got in!.
Also, they haven’t got the train running back to the car park, and considering the play area for kids is a very long way from the entrance, it was so painful getting them back at the end of the day!
Just be aware of this if you haven’t been before and you are going with kids.
But even though they have allocated a certain amount of people at each time slot there was a huge 40 minute queue just to get in!! I had two toddlers in tow who were moody and grumpy because of the long wait. Can’t say I blame them. They are letting in far too many people at each time slot if they can’t cope with entrance system.
Certainly put me in a bad mood before we even got in!.
Also, they haven’t got the train running back to the car park, and considering the play area for kids is a very long way from the entrance, it was so painful getting them back at the end of the day!
Just be aware of this if you haven’t been before and you are going with kids.
Written August 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback. There are sometimes queues to enter the grounds, but we have reduced the amount of visitors per time slot and our overall capacity is signifcantly reduced from our normal levels due to social distancing measures.
The Castle Train is not in oepration yet, but we hope to start running it again soon, when we can safely do so.
Written August 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chloe S
1 contribution
Jul 2021 • Friends
It’s a tough to write because I have loved Leeds castle for so long having grown up in the area and been a regular visitor for over 10 years.
I can I imagine new visitors are still impressed because visually it really is still wonderful. Even though there hasn’t been a single update inside the castle in years..literally nothing new to see. In 10 years. I still come hoping things will improve but sadly everytime I’ve come it’s gotten worse 😫
So this it’s what’s driven me to leave this review:
The food and drink. Costa has gone..in my opinion an error. Unless you want to eat a full sit down meal (regardless of covid) you are unwelcome in the restaurant.
For a sandwich or tea and cake it’s take away and find a bench. (They are NEVER free..even at 1pm on a drizzly Thursday they are all full)
I say “cake” it’s plastic packaged muffins or chocolate twist for £2.50. As for the coffee...one size (about the same as a small in Costa) and it’s £3.
Bottle of water is £2..sandwich in a box that you have to walk off with £4.50.
The restaurant used to do pots of tea and scones and jam or their lovely laminating cakes were ideal for an afternoon at Leeds castle. They had big tables of fresh cakes that were just excellent.
It really is so disappointing. I know times are hard but charging that much for tiny coffees and plastic wrapped cakes with little choice to sit outside on benches (if you can) is a far cry for the Leeds castle I used to know.
Hopefully this isn’t permanent and the restaurant will change its menu once restrictions ease?
Just my opinion as a lately- repeatedly disappointed regular.
I can I imagine new visitors are still impressed because visually it really is still wonderful. Even though there hasn’t been a single update inside the castle in years..literally nothing new to see. In 10 years. I still come hoping things will improve but sadly everytime I’ve come it’s gotten worse 😫
So this it’s what’s driven me to leave this review:
The food and drink. Costa has gone..in my opinion an error. Unless you want to eat a full sit down meal (regardless of covid) you are unwelcome in the restaurant.
For a sandwich or tea and cake it’s take away and find a bench. (They are NEVER free..even at 1pm on a drizzly Thursday they are all full)
I say “cake” it’s plastic packaged muffins or chocolate twist for £2.50. As for the coffee...one size (about the same as a small in Costa) and it’s £3.
Bottle of water is £2..sandwich in a box that you have to walk off with £4.50.
The restaurant used to do pots of tea and scones and jam or their lovely laminating cakes were ideal for an afternoon at Leeds castle. They had big tables of fresh cakes that were just excellent.
It really is so disappointing. I know times are hard but charging that much for tiny coffees and plastic wrapped cakes with little choice to sit outside on benches (if you can) is a far cry for the Leeds castle I used to know.
Hopefully this isn’t permanent and the restaurant will change its menu once restrictions ease?
Just my opinion as a lately- repeatedly disappointed regular.
Written July 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LondonLady
Cleveland, OH2,288 contributions
Jan 2020
We took the Train from Victoria to Bearsted to visit Leeds Castle. I would recommend calling ahead for a taxi as we waited about 25 minutes for the shuttle to come and take us to Leeds and no Uber was picking up our request. The shuttle is only 2.50 pounds so that makes it economical. We toured the castle and the grounds are lovely. Lots of things for kids to do including a maze and a huge playyard, plus walking the grounds. The Castle itself is geared toward business conferences or weddings, do touring it is a bit more modern and less ornate than what you see at Windsor or at Warwick. The rooms were redone in the 1930-1950's for the high society set and those are the rooms you tour. We enjoyed our meal in the restaurant Fish and Chips and Meat pies - all very good. Nice gift shop too..
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Visitor,
Your positive comments are greatly appreciated and we thank you for taking the time to review Leeds Castle. Feedback is very important to us and we are thrilled that you enjoyed your visit.
We hope to welcome you again in the future.
Written January 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Twixpeaks
Rochester, UK33 contributions
May 2021 • Family
The castle grounds are well kept and pretty and now have a one-way system due to Covid. The entrance ticket is expensive but it allows you access to the castle & grounds for 12 months. There are a lot of bird droppings and if you take a picnic the ducks and jackdaws taunt you for food. Crossing the lake on the boat costs £1 per person and is a thrill for young children. The aviary has a good number of birds if prey and their volunteer keepers are very knowledgeable. Young children enjoy the playground and play swords and archery sets that are sold in the castle shops.
Written May 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review, hope to welcome you back again soon.
Written May 7, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bradley21march
Doncaster, UK8 contributions
Aug 2021
Went several years ago, and loved it. Now,, what a letdown. Arrived and first task visit the ladies toilet. It was filthy, water, paper, all over the floor, Soiled basins. A visitor said 'They have just charged us as a family £99 and this is what we get.'
It was £28 per person, to go in,
We queued 20 mins. for a coffee, one poor lady on her own trying to make and serve snacks and coffee, no one to clear tables, the floor area was covered in litter.
Advertised as the finest castle in England, It doesn't matter how fine it is, if the entry and reception areas leave visitors with such a bad taste, and the high price of entry they will soon find visitors doing what we did, we simply left.
It was £28 per person, to go in,
We queued 20 mins. for a coffee, one poor lady on her own trying to make and serve snacks and coffee, no one to clear tables, the floor area was covered in litter.
Advertised as the finest castle in England, It doesn't matter how fine it is, if the entry and reception areas leave visitors with such a bad taste, and the high price of entry they will soon find visitors doing what we did, we simply left.
Written August 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
meganjanehart
Queenborough, UK3 contributions
I exchanged my e-ticket for a physical annual pass which I have since lost. Is there anyway to get a new one by showing my e-ticket and matching it up to their database since they took my photo to prove it’s me?
JuneBug1939
Weston super Mare, UK4,564 contributions
Sorry, I don't know. It would be helpful if you gave them a ring and they could tell you immediately.
Are there a lot of stairs and as I have a heart
Condition
iceman_icestreet
The Ardennes, Belgium999 contributions
No quite flat
MooMoo208
United Kingdom17 contributions
Do you need a ticket to access the playgrounds and maze?
little foxes
Maidstone, UK15 contributions
Sorry, my answer should say. No, when you buy a ticket this gives tyou access into everything
You may have to queue at busy times.
Hello, I was looking into your website and was wondering, do your audio tours support adults with EAL (English as an Additional Language)?
Passport67932118856
Cobham, UK
Hello. Can I use my National Trust or English Heritage membership for Leeds Castle?
Graham G
13 contributions
Hi sorry l do not know
mandyw1995
Broadstairs, UK71 contributions
Hi, I have booked Go Ape for four, not including myself!, can we picnic somewhere once they are done?
kateyb64
Windhoek22 contributions
Can I take my dog with me?
banana-sparks
Maidstone, UK8 contributions
The reply I wrote was for the afternoon tea question not the dog question
Ruth L
Ilford, UK262 contributions
Does an annual ticket allow entry to the Christmas market on a weekend? Thanks :)
Ruth L
Ilford, UK262 contributions
To answer my own question, yes it does. The Christmas market does not require a separate ticket, except for the one you use to enter the castle. Therefore an annual ticket is fine.
Claire Groves
West Malling, UK
If we purchase an Annual family ticket, could we then pay for the boat ride for that day? Freedom pass tickets can’t be purchased as a family
Eric_W844
Washington DC, DC151 contributions
Sorry don’t know
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Claim your listingLeeds Castle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Leeds Castle
- Leeds Castle is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Leeds Castle admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $51.02, while a popular guided tour starts around $19.13 per person. See all 33 Leeds Castle tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- Leeds Castle can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 33 Leeds Castle tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Leeds Castle:
- Leeds Castle Admission - Ultimate Explorer Tickets (From $51.02)
- Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour (From $121.17)
- Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover & Greenwich River Boat (From $132.65)
- Private Tour to Beautiful Leeds Castle, Kent, from London (From $318.88)
- Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Cliffs of Dover Custom Day Trip (From $121.17)
- Hotels near Leeds Castle:
- (0.01 mi) Leeds Castle - Maidens Tower B&B
- (0.04 mi) BATTEL HALL COTTAGE, pet friendly, with open fire in Harrietsham
- (0.10 mi) Leeds Castle Stable Courtyard Bed & Breakfast
- (0.33 mi) Knight's Glamping at Leeds Castle
- (0.41 mi) Leeds Castle - Holiday Cottages
- Restaurants near Leeds Castle:
- (0.08 mi) Castle View Restaurant
- (0.35 mi) The Park Gate Inn
- (0.78 mi) The George Inn
- (0.74 mi) Vesuvius
- (0.91 mi) The Windmill
Leeds Castle Information
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