insideKENT Magazine Issue 101 - September 2020 | Page 13

IN ASSOCIATION WITH LEEDS CASTLE The first place we will be visiting on our tour of Kentish castles is the world renowned Leeds Castle, whose tagline of ‘The Loveliest Castle in The World’ is confirmed after spending no more than a few moments gazing up at the magnificent structure, and across the beautiful grounds. The castle, which was built in 1119 by Robert de Crèvecœur - though it had previously stood as a wooden structure, built in Medieval times - was constructed to be a Norman stronghold, and has since played its part in British royal history, becoming the property of queens and a favoured residence of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon. According to the castle it has also been ‘a Jacobean country house; a Georgian mansion; and an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous’ and now in the 21st century it has evolved into one of the most recognisable castles in Britain, drawing visitors from local towns and tourists from across the world looking to enjoy a classically British day in the sun. Once your eyes have finished marvelling at the grandeur of the castle itself, be sure to take a relaxing stroll around the exquisite grounds and indulge in a real feast for the senses. The Princess Alexandra Gardens lie along the River Len, and bathe the ground in an astonishing array of colourful flowers that emit the quintessentially delicate smell of an English garden. Just a few of the stems that bloom throughout the seasons are daffodils, narcissi, anemones, azaleas and rhododendrons. An abundance of flowers is not the only reason to visit the gardens, there are lush green trees whose branches reach down and gently stroke the river below, or line the park's outskirts as an emerald border. If something a little more exotic is in your sights, head to the south-facing Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terraces. Exotic plants like cacti and succulents litter the ground, and when the sun is shining through the leaves onto the tan path below it is reminiscent of being in a Spanish garden, not the grounds of a traditional English castle. There are also tons of activities available for people of all ages. Just some of the programs on offer include the adventure playground, adventure golf, a birds of prey centre, multiple cafes, and would any castle be complete without a maze* for visitors to get lost in? We didn’t think so! If you are more into eating and drinking than running around after the kids all day, Leeds Castle is the place to be, as both afternoon tea and dinner are sorted thanks to Castle View Restaurant. Located just across the lake, it delivers smashing food, as well as sensational views of the castle, day or night. We cannot think of anything better than relaxing on the sun drenched terrace, while enjoying an indulgent cream tea and a bottle of bubbles. Or experiencing the haunting beauty of this centuriesold structure at night over a moreish meal and a few bottles of wine! To avoid overcrowding and to ensure social distancing measures are adhered to, there is mandatory online booking in place, and only card payments will be accepted on the grounds of the castle. PPE is also in full effect so you and your family can feel safe, and taken care of while enjoying your experience. *Maze current closed due to COVID-19 restrictions 13