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Set on two islands within the River Len and surrounded by a moat, Leeds Castle is a spectacle to behold.
Described at the “loveliest castle in the world” by Lord Conway, a trip to Kent is not complete without a visit to this historical castle which has served multiple purposes; a Norman stronghold, the property of six medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion and an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous. Today, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in England.
Reading the history behind this castle before visiting, what I personally found most interesting was that the castle was transformed from fortified stronghold to magnificent royal palace for the use of King Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. After visiting, what I personally found most interesting was its connection to Virginia, where I live.
After entering the castle and admiring the family portraits, I noticed one of the portraits of Lord Fairfax. Since my son attends George Mason university in Fairfax, the name caught my eye and I photographed the portrait to show my son. One of the attendants in the room caught my attention and engaged me in conversation. After telling him about my son and that I lived south of Fairfax in Richmond, Virginia, he took me over to a map and explained how the castle had been the property of both Sir Thomas Culpeper and Sir Cheney Culpeper. Recognizing the Culpeper name (Culpeper, Virginia is 78 miles from where I live), I was enthralled by the history lesson that he began to give me.
Thomas, Second Lord Culpeper, suceeded his father in the title and later purchased Leeds Castle from the creditors of Sir Cheney’s estate. In 1680, Lord Culpeper was Appointed Governor of Virginia. His daughter, Catherine, married Thomas, Fifth Lord Fairfax in 1690. On the death of Lady Culpeper in 1710, the castle was passed to the Fairfax family.
Over the next 50 years, ownership of the castle was never secure and continually challenged. The Sixth Lord Fairfax finally achieved confirmation of the family’s sole rights in 1745. He sailed for Virginia and Leed’s Castle was given to his brother Robert Fairfax.
Fairfax settled on the banks of the Potomac at Belvoir and became the friend and patron of a young George Washington. Later, moving to the frontier, he assigned himself 150,000 acres which he called “The Manor of Leeds.”
Walking along the drive in front of the castle, I had noticed a sundial. The attendant, asked if I had noticed it on my walk to the entrance. Having glanced in its direction, I had not, however, stopped to inspect it more closely. He suggested that on my exit, I take a look, although the cloudy day would not lend itself to seeing its operation. Much to my astonishment, the sundial is set to Virginia time. He also informed me that there was a rumored sundial in Virginia at one time that was set to Leed’s Castle time.
Taking a quick walk on the premises, I realized that there were many other activities and attractions available. Being that I was on an organized tour, however, I was unable to see much of the grounds. If time is available, one should see and experience the Maze, along with its underground grotto as well as the Falconry.
An exhibition within the ancient Gatehouse details the fascinating journey through 900 years of the Castle’s history. The story is recreated through original artifacts, expert historical detail, illustration and film. Additionally, a Dog Collar museum is available near the Fairfax restaurant. It contains a unique collection of over 130 rare and valuable collars dating from the 15th century.
For nicer days, Punting on the Moat is available from April to October, weather permitting. The Wood Garden, the Culpeper Garden and the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terrace are also available for a nice walk.
Younger visitors can check out the Knights’ Realm Playground and the Squires’ Courtyard Playground.
There are many food venues on the Castle premises serving casual dining, coffee, afternoon tea and elegant evening dining.
Check out more pictures on my Facebook page, Snapping the Globe.
For more information on Leeds Castle: http://www.leeds-castle.com
Tour Providers Offering Service to Leeds Castle
- Evan Evans, http://www.evanevanstours.com
- Golden Tours, http://www.goldentours.com
- Viator Tours, http://www.viator.com
- Premium Tours, http://www.premiumtours.co.uk/
- Grayline Tours, http://www.grayline.com
Opening Hours
- April thru October, 10:30am-6:00pm, last admission 4:30pm
- October thru March, 10:30am-5:00pm, last admission 3:00pm
- Knights’ Realm Playground, April-September, 10:00am-5:00pm, October-March, 10:00am-4:00pm (closed in icy conditions)
- Squires’ Courtyard Playground, April-September, 10:00am-5:00pm, October-March, 10:00am-4pm (closed in icy conditions)
- Punting on the Moat, April-October, weather permitting
Ticket Prices
- Adults, £24.00
- Senior Citizens/Students & Visitors with Disabilities, £18.90
- Children – 4 to 15 years (with online booking discount), £14.40
- Infants-under 4 years, FREE