Visit Leeds Castle: Opening Times, Directions, Tickets

Leeds Castle at a glance

What are Leeds Castle’s opening hours?

Leeds Castle is open daily from 10:30 am10:30am to 5 pm5pm, with the last admission at 4:30 pm43:30pm. Hours may vary seasonally.

Where is Leeds Castle located?

Leeds Castle is located at Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL, United Kingdom.

How many entrances does Leeds Castle have?

Leeds Castle has one main entrance through the main gate off Penfold Hill, where ticketing and visitor access beginbegins.

How many visitors does Leeds Castle see per year?

Leeds Castle welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually.

About Leeds Castle

Book tickets to the Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle Tickets

Extended validity
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration

from

£38.50

Full-Day tour of Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs of Dover

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
10 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour

from

£119

What are Leeds Castle’s opening hours?

General Timings

April to September:

Grounds and Gardens: 10:00 amAM – 6:00 pmPM (last entry at 4:0030 PM)
The Castle: 10:30 AM – 5:0030 PM (last entry at 4:305:00 pmPM)

October to March:

Grounds and Gardens: 10:00 amAM – 5:00 pmPM (last entry at 3:00 pmPM)
The Castle: 10:30 amAM – 4:00 pmPM (last entry at 3:30 pmPM)

Closed on:

Leeds Castle Concert (12th July 2025)

25 December (Christmas Day)

Please note that Leeds Castle may occasionally close for special events or maintenance. It's advisable to check the official website before planning your visit.

See detailed timings (CTA)

Best Time to Visit Leeds Castle

Weekday vs Weekend

For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting Leeds Castle on weekdays, particularly in the mornings. Weekends tend to be busier, especially during school holidays and special events, leading to larger crowds and longer queues.

Peak Season vs Low Season

The peak season at Leeds Castle runs from May to September, coinciding with warmer weather and numerous outdoor events. This period attracts more visitors, so booking tickets in advance is advisable. The low season, from October to March, offers a quieter atmosphere, shorter queues, and the opportunity to enjoy seasonal events like the Christmas light trail.

Best Time of Year

While Leeds Castle is open year-round, the months of April to June and September to October are particularly pleasant. During these times, the weather is mild, the gardens are in full bloom or adorned with autumn colors, and the crowds are more manageable, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the castle and its grounds.

Where is Leeds Castle located?

Address: Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, United Kingdom

Find on Map

Leeds Castle is nestled in the countryside of Kent, about 7 miles southeast of Maidstone. Surrounded by a scenic lake and sprawling parkland, it offers a peaceful escape just outside of London.

Closest landmark: Leeds Village (2.5 km)

Leeds Castle location (CTA)

Getting to Leeds Castle

Best for: Visitors traveling from London or Kent

Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (from London Victoria)

Closest station: Bearsted Station

Timings: Trains run frequently throughout the day

Southeastern trains operate regular services from London Victoria to Bearsted Station. From Bearsted, a shuttle bus service is available from April to September, or you can take a short taxi ride to the castle. Alternatively, Hollingbourne Station is also nearby, with a 30–40 minute walk or a brief taxi ride to the castle grounds.

Best for: Budget-friendly travel

Travel time: Approximately 30–40 minutes (from Maidstone)

Closest stop: Broomfield Turning, Hollingbourne (13-minute walk to the castle)

Timings: Buses run hourly

Several bus routes connect Maidstone to Leeds Castle, including routes 13, 14, L2, and 510. The nearest bus stop is Broomfield Turning in Hollingbourne, which is about a 13-minute walk from the castle entrance.

Best for: Convenience and flexibility

Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (from London)

Distance: Approximately 45 miles (72 km)

Leeds Castle is easily accessible by car via the M20 motorway. Take Junction 8 and follow the brown tourist signs to the castle. Free parking is available on-site, making it a convenient option for drivers .

Nearest parking spot: Leeds Castle Main Car Park (0.2 km from the entrance)

How to skip the line at Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle attracts over half a million visitors every year. While it’s not as crowded as London’s top landmarks, queues can still form, —especially during weekends, holidays, and school breaks. Here’s how to save time and skip the line.

Leeds Castle opens at 10 am10am daily, with last entry at 4:30 pm43:30pm. Arriving early gives you a head start before the crowds arrive, —especially during peak season (April to September). The grounds are quiet in the morning, letting you explore the gardens, moat, and castle interiors at your own pace without waiting.

Booking your tickets online lets you skip the ticket counter and head straight to the entrance, saving time—especially on busy days. It also secures your spot in advance and may include extras like a multimedia guide or access to seasonal events.

Weekdays are your best bet for a quieter experience. Fewer school groups and tourists visit between Monday and Thursday. If you can avoid weekends and holidays, you’ll enjoy shorter lines and more time to explore the castle and its scenic grounds.

Know before you go to Leeds Castle

Main Entrance (Broomfield Road): This is the primary access point for all visitors, including those arriving by car, shuttle, or taxi.

Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in the castle and select areas of the grounds.
Restrooms: Multiple restrooms are located throughout the estate, including near the castle, playground, and maze.
Baby changing rooms: Available in the main restroom facilities near the castle and playground.

Wheelchair access: The castle and grounds are largely accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Mobility scooters: Available for hire at the main entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
Assistance dogs: Welcome throughout the estate, including inside the castle.

Multimedia Audio guide

Availability: Multimedia guides are available for hire at the entrance, offering in-depth information about the castle's history and features.
Languages: Guides are available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, Dutch & Italian, with Japanese, Mandarin and Ukrainian.
Personal headphones: Visitors are encouraged to bring their own wired headphones; Bluetooth headphones may not be compatible.

Photography: Non-flash photography is permitted throughout the castle and grounds.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside the castle and in all enclosed areas.
Pets: Only assistance dogs are allowed on the estate.
Pushchairs: Pushchairs aren’t allowed inside the Castle or Castle View Restaurant, but parking areas are available nearby.

Castle Shop: Located near the main entrance, offering a range of souvenirs, gifts, and books related to Leeds Castle.
Garden Shop: Situated within the grounds, featuring gardening tools, plants, and outdoor accessories.

Castle View Restaurant: Enjoy traditional British dishes made with seasonal ingredients in a 17th-century oak-beamed setting. Daytime dining requires a valid admission ticket; dinner (5:30 pm–8 pm) is open to all.
The Parlour: Grab a quick bite near the Maze with sausage rolls, pasties, sandwiches, barista coffee, and classic ice creams. Card payments only; seasonal hours apply.
Courtyard Café: Located in the Stable Courtyard, this café serves light meals, pastries, and drinks—perfect for a casual break during your visit.

The Park Gate Inn (0.4 miles): A charming country pub serving classic British comfort food in a cosy, traditional setting.
The George Inn (1 mile): Located in the village of Leeds, this historic inn offers hearty meals with a rustic countryside vibe.
The Windmill (0.9 miles): Nestled in Hollingbourne, this friendly local pub is known for wholesome dishes and relaxed surroundings.
The Potting Shed (2.1 miles): A short drive to Langley gets you to this spacious pub with a seasonal menu, outdoor seating, and hearty favourites.

On-site accommodation

State Bedrooms: Stay inside Leeds Castle in refined, historic rooms featuring four-poster beds and picturesque views of the estate (from £350 per night).
Stable Courtyard B&B: Enjoy a cozy overnight stay in the Stable Courtyard with well-appointed rooms and breakfast included (from £150 per night).
Holiday Cottages: Ideal for families or groups, these self-catering cottages on the castle grounds offer privacy and a comfortable, homely atmosphere (from £200 per night).
Battel Hall & The Oast: These large estate properties come with private gardens and are perfect for group stays or longer visits (from £400 per night).
Knights’ Glamping: Sleep under canvas in style with heated, wool-lined tents, open fires, and a medieval-meets-modern experience (from £175 per night).

Nearby hotels

Orida Maidstone (4.2 miles):** Family-friendly hotel with leisure facilities and on-site dining.
The Black Horse Inn (4.7 miles):** Quaint countryside inn with traditional décor and hearty pub food.
Travelodge Maidstone Central (5.3 miles):** Budget-friendly stay in the heart of Maidstone, close to shops and restaurants.

Free falconry displays: Leeds Castle hosts daily falconry shows (weather permitting) at 2 pm2pm in the Bird of Prey Centre near the Maze. These free shows feature hawks, falcons, and owls flying up close. Arrive early for the best views.
What to see first: The Castle interiors are best explored early to avoid crowds. The Castle opens at 10:30 am. Start with the Gatehouse and Henry VIII’s Banqueting Hall, then head outside to the gardens and Maze.
Visit the Maze in the off-season: The Maze is a favourite family attraction, but can get busy during school holidays and weekends. For a quieter experience, visit between November and February. It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (4 pm in winter).
Special events: Leeds Castle hosts events year-round, including fireworks in November, Christmas markets, and Easter trails. These are included with admission. Check the official website for event schedules.
Use the Black Swan Ferry: Take the Black Swan Ferry for a scenic ride across the Great Water. It runs regularly from the ferry dock near the ticket office to the castle grounds, saving you a longer walk.
Explore the Dog Collar Museum: Located inside the Castle, this museum features over 130 historic dog collars dating back to the 15th century. It’s a unique, quick stop during your visit.
Walk the Woodland Trail: The Woodland Walk offers peaceful trails around the estate, perfect for a quiet stroll. It’s accessible from spring through autumn and well signposted.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Leeds Castle

Is there a dress code to be followed at Leeds Castle?

There is no strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended due to uneven paths and outdoor areas.

Will my luggage be allowed inside Leeds Castle?

Large luggage is not permitted inside the castle. Small bags and backpacks are allowed, but all bags may be subject to security checks at the entrance.

Can I bring my stroller or wheelchair into Leeds Castle?

Yes, Leeds Castle is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are allowed. Some outdoor paths may be uneven, so plan accordingly. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are also available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are there any guided tours available at Leeds Castle?

Yes, the full-day Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs of Dover tour includes an expert guided experience that covers the castle’s history and highlights. This guided tour comes with personal audio sets for clear storytelling throughout the day.

For standard Leeds Castle tickets, you get access to an innovative multimedia guide that lets you explore the castle and grounds at your own pace.

What should I wear when visiting Leeds Castle?

Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. The estate has extensive gardens and walking trails, so prepare for outdoor exploration.

Is re-entry allowed on the same day?

Yes, re-entry is allowed. Make sure to keep your wristband or ticket to show at the entrance if you leave and return.

Can I visit just the gardens without entering the castle?

No, all tickets include access to both the castle and the gardens—separate garden-only tickets are not available.

Do tickets include access to special events?

Some seasonal events like Easter trails are included, but major events such as fireworks or the Christmas light trail require separate tickets.