Leeds Castle, Maidstone
This section provides information about Leeds Castle in Maidstone.
Leeds Castle is set in 500 acres of parkland in the Kent countryside.
It takes its name from its first owner a man named Leed or Ledian, who built himself a wooden castle in 857.
The first stone castle was built in 1119 on an island in the lake.
It was later rebuilt and extended by Edward I, who also added a set of outer walls, a barbican and the 'gloriette', a D-shaped tower built on the smallest of the two islands in the lake.
Leeds castle was a royal residence for six of England's medieval queens and a palace of Henry VIII.
Much of the castle was restored and rebuilt in the 19th century, and many of its lavishly decorated rooms are open to the public.
The castle grounds contain several gardens, a duckery, a maze, an aviary and a unique museum dedicated to the collection of antique dog collars.
Around bonfire night the castle is used as a spectacular backdrop to a big firework display.
Factfile
Contact details
- Leeds Castle
Maidstone
Kent
ME17 1PL - Tel: 01622 765400
- Fax: 01622 735616
- Email: enquiries@leeds-castle.co.uk
- Website: www.leeds-castle.com
Opening Times
Open all year round.
- Apr - Oct: 10am to 6pm
- Nov - Mar: 10am to 3pm (Closed December 25th)
Prices
Prices vary. Phone or see Leeds Castle website for details.
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
Town Hall
Castlefield Road
Reigate
RH2 0SH
01737 276000
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