Leeds Castle Admission Tickets
Explore Leeds Castle and its surrounding verdant parks.
- Visit Leeds Castle, which is surrounded by 500 acres of parkland and a moat.
- Discover 900 years of history at the Gatehouse Exhibition — about the castle's evolution from a Norman stronghold to a royal residence to a beloved tourist attraction.
- Check out the Dog Collar Museum, which exhibits canine neckwear from over 500 years.
- Explore the Knights' Stronghold Playground and Leeds Castle Maze & Grotto.
- Inclusions: Entry into Leeds Castle.
- Schedule: The castle is open daily from 10:30 AM to 4 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM).
- Validity: This ticket is valid on the date and time selected during checkout.
- Redemption: Your ticket redemption point is at Leeds Castle.
- This ticket cannot be canceled, amended, or rescheduled.
Leeds Castle Reopens Post COVID-19
Leeds Castle reopened to the public with health measures and guidelines in place to ensure visitors’ safety. Different parts of the castle will open up in phases as per COVID regulations. Note that the castle, Playgrounds, Gardens, Adventure Golf, Maze, Bird of Prey Centre, Dog Collar Museum, Black Swan Ferry, Mobility Bus, Shops, Castle View Restaurant and Catering Kiosks are now open.
COVID-19 Safety Measures and Guidelines
- The venue is operating at reduced visitor capacity with pre-booked time slots.
- Social distancing mandatory with one-way systems in place.
- Contactless payment only is allowed on-site.
- All staff are using personal protective equipment.
- Visitors are required to bring their own masks and keep them on at all times.
- Handwashing and sanitising stations installed throughout the premises.
- Elsie the Castle Train and Punting will not be in operation until further notice.
Leeds Castle Tickets: Visit the Loveliest Castle in the World
Nearly seventy kilometres southeast of London in the county of Kent lies Leeds Castle. The castle was constructed in 1119 on islands in a lake formed by the River Len. It served as a Norman stronghold, the private property of six medieval queens, a country house, and even as the palace of the infamous Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Today, it is a beloved tourist attraction for families. It is also a great day trip destination from London.
Why Visit Leeds Castle
- Often referred to as “the loveliest castle in the world”, Leeds Castle in Kent is a visual treat for all visitors.
- While the structure and its surrounding verdant grounds are pleasing to the eye, the castle is also known for its array of family-friendly activities.
- It has falconry displays, adventure golf, a playground, and the popular Leeds Castle Maze, which was created in 1987 with 2,400 yew trees.
- On the lake formed by River Len, this castle has been a Norman stronghold, a mansion, a country manor, and the private property of six queens. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction in Kent, visited by over half a million people annually.
All Your Leeds Castle Ticket Options
Self-Guided Leeds Castle Tickets
A self-guided tour is one where you can explore Leeds Castle at your own leisure. You can choose when and how you want to go and arrange your own transportation, giving you the flexibility to make your own itinerary. A self-guided tour is flexible in that you can set your own itinerary and visit the places you want to at your own pace. These tickets cannot be cancelled, amended, or rescheduled. Note that the ticket is valid on the date and time selected during checkout.
Combo Leeds Castle Tickets
On a combo tour, you will visit Leeds Castle, along with one or more attractions like Canterbury Cathedral. You will go on this tour with an expert guide, and transportation is pre-arranged for a stress-free visit. As part of a guided tour, you will follow a fixed itinerary to cover as much as possible within the attraction. You may cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Your ticket is only valid for the date & time selected while booking.
Discounted Leeds Castle tickets
Children under the age of 4 enter the castle for free, and those aged between 4-15 pay £17 for a ticket, compared to a regular adult entry price of £26. Seniors and students with valid ID pay about £24. Visitors with disability also pay a discounted price along with free entry for their carer.
Best Way to Buy Leeds Castle Tickets
The best way to purchase Leeds Castle tickets is to purchase them online, as it offers the following:
- Convenience: Skip the hassle of standing in long queues. Book your tickets with a click, and head inside directly.
- Advance Booking: If you want to ensure you visit the venue on the date of your choosing, you can book your tickets online and in advance to guarantee your visit!
- Discounts: When you book your Leeds Castle tickets online, you can also avail of discounts and deals offered by a number of third-party websites.
Which Leeds Castle Tickets Are Perfect For You?
1. If you’re looking for something easy on the pocket...
If you're on a budget, purchase coach tickets as it is one of the cheaper transport options. You can get general admission tickets to Leeds Castle, but if you want to get information as well, get the tickets with audio guides.
2. If you want to delve deeper...
If you’re looking to discover Leeds Castle and learn about its history, take a guided tour. Your expert guide will give you all the information you need, and more. Additionally, your transportation is included in the guided tour, ensuring a smooth experience.
3. If you want to explore beyond Leeds Castle...
Go beyond Leeds Castle with combo tickets. You can visit other popular attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral and Dover Castle with your tickets. You will be accompanied by a tour guide and your transfers will be pre-arranged.
What to See at Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle
Explore the castle in all its glory and discover the history of the Leeds Castle. Constructed in 1119, the castle has served both military and leisure purposes. Once a royal residence, today it is a popular attraction in Kent.
Playgrounds
One of the many attractions aimed towards children, the Knights' Stronghold Playground and the Squires’ Courtyard Playground feature fun activities like zip line, sand pits, fireman’s poles, and more.
The Maze
A unique square maze with a circular pattern, the Leeds Castle maze is made of 2400 yew trees. Get lost in the maze and try to find your way to the grotto in the center.
Dog Collar Museum
This unique museum exhibits dog collars over the course of five centuries. The oldest one dates to the 15th century, and is one among the 130+ rare collars.
Falconry Display
Featuring a range of birds like Hawks, Vultures, Falcons, and Owls, Falconry Display takes place behind the Maze.
Birds of Prey
Housing a variety of birds such as eagles, owls, hawks, and more, visitors can learn about these magnificent creatures at the Center.
Plan Your Visit to Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle opening times are as follows:
- April to September: 10.45 am - 4.30 pm (last entry at 3.45 pm)
- October to March: 10.45 am - TBA
Best Time to Visit Leeds Castle
While Leeds, Kent is charming throughout the year, the best time to visit the castle is between May and September. The weather is pleasant, and one can explore the castle and its grounds freely. However, please note that June-August is high tourist season in the city, so ensure you visit before or after this time if you want to visit when it is not as crowded.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL, United Kingdom. Find on Map.
- Coach: You can take a bus from London Victoria to Hollingbourne Bus Station: Bus numbers 814 and 021 will take you to Maidstone King Street. From here, Bus number 10X will take you to Hollingbourne, which is a 15-minute walk from the castle.
- Train: You can take a train from London to Bearsted Station, which is the closest train station to the castle. From here, you can take a coach shuttle service between April to September. From October to March, there will be a private shuttle service that you can avail of.
- Car: One can also drive down to Leeds, Kent from London. The castle is located near Junction 8 of the M20.
Leeds Castle has quite a few eateries that one can head to if they are hungry. Currently, the Castle View Restaurant is open for visitors.
Starting Spring 2021, tourists can also have tea at the terrace in the restaurant with scones, pastries, and sandwiches.
You can also have Afternoon Tea at the Castle in one of the State Rooms with a variety of sandwiches and sweet treats.
Bed & Breakfast At Leeds Castle
When visiting Leeds Castle, you can pick from a variety of stay options. Choose from Bed & Breakfast, Manor House, hotels, or cottages — and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go glamping for a glamorous camping experience.
Here are some Leeds Castle accommodation options for visitors:
- Bed & Breakfast: Stable Courtyard Bed & Breakfast and Maiden’s Tower Bed & Breakfast
- Holiday Cottage: Keeper's House, Weir Cottage, Earl's Cottage, and Battel Hall
- Glamping: Knight’s Glamping on the Castle vineyard, which opens in 2021
You can purchase souvenirs and other things at the Leeds Castle shops. Alongside themed and seasonal souvenirs, you can purchase jewellery, decorations, scarves, snacks, and beverages.
You can also purchase Union Jack-themed memorabilia and local products such as Kent cider, liquor, and honey, among other things.
There are numerous Leeds Castle events that you should check out, such as:
- Field of Cloth: 17th May to 30th September 2021
- Leeds Castle Concert: 10th July 2021
- The Big Book of Leeds Castle-y Challenges: 24th July to 31st August 2021
- Castle Kids Obstacle Course: 24th July to 31st August 2021
- Open Air Theatre: 29th July to 1st August 2021
- Children’s Theatre: 13th and 14th August 2021
- Halloween Spectacular: 23rd to 31st October 2021
- Fireworks Spectacular: 6th and 7th November 2021
- Leeds Castle Christmas: 27th November 2021 to 2nd January 2022
Visitor Tips for Leeds Castle
- Ensure you wear comfortable shoes as covering the castle and the gardens requires a considerable amount of walking.
- Audio tours are currently unavailable, so if you are looking for a knowledgeable experience, go for a guided tour.
- If visiting with children, the best time to visit is between July and September, when there are many family-friendly activities in the castle.
- If you are purchasing discounted tickets, please carry along a valid ID as well.
All Your Questions About Leeds Castle Tickets Answered
While slightly more expensive, guided tours are a great way to explore Leeds Castle. You are accompanied by an expert guide and transport is arranged, ensuring a relaxed and stress-free visit.
Yes, Leeds Castle is currently welcoming visitors. Several health guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of visitors.
Yes, due to the new COVID guidelines, you need to book a time slot as well when buying Leeds Castle tickets.
Your ticket will have both your entry access along with the reserved timeslot on it. You just need to bring along your ticket.
Yes, you can. However, this is subject to availability — as the castle only allows visitors with pre-booked tickets, you may have difficulty finding one on the same day as most people book in advance.
Children under the age of 4 enter the castle for free. Children aged 4-15 pay £17 for a ticket, compared to a regular adult entry price of £26. Seniors and students with valid ID pay about £24. Visitors with disability also pay a discounted price along with free entry for their carer.
As Leeds Castle is only allowing those with pre-booked tickets, it is best to book them in advance to get the date and time slot you prefer.
Due to current health & safety regulations, audio guided tours have been temporarily suspended. If you would like to get information about the castle while you're visiting, you can take a guided tour.
A Leeds Castle tour usually takes about two hours. If combined with other locations, your tour could take up to 10-11 hours.
The best time to visit Leeds Castle is between May and September. If you're visiting with kids, July-September is a great time to visit as this is when there are a lot of activities and events at the premises.
Yes, nearly all areas of the castle (except the Maze and Grotto) are accessible. You can get more information on the official website.
Yes, the Leeds Castle car park is currently open. Please arrive 15 minutes before your allotted time.
There is no time limit — you can stay as long as you'd like until closing time.